Emrys Thakkar

Founder, Managing Editor, Director

The founder of Cruise Hive, Emrys has been reporting on the cruise industry since 2008. Expert insights and tips featured on a number of publications including The Express, Business Insider, Fodor's Travel and more. Worked for Carnival for 8 years and traveled to more than 34 countries and been on over 100 cruises.

How did you get started in cruises?

My first-ever cruise was on the Carnival Glory in 2004 as my sister worked as part of the entertainment department onboard. Since then, I’ve been hooked on all things cruise. I decided to work for Carnival Cruise Line in 2005, with my first ship being the Carnival Sensation. I’ve worked on many cruise ships including bringing out the Carnival Splendor and Carnival Dream from the shipyard.

Take a look at the photos below from during my time as a Carnival crew member:

What makes you a cruise expert?

I’ve not only been a crew member for Carnival Cruise Line for 8 years, but have also cruised as a passenger on multiple cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and MSC Cruises.

Reporting on the cruise industry since 2008 has given me over 15 years of writing just on cruises, a dedicated experience few can match. My education includes an Advanced National Diploma in Media Studies and Journalism.

In addition to being featured across various outlets and working with brands, I’ve also been featured on the BBC One Show when cruising resumed with MSC Virtuosa in May 2021.

You can check my Muck Rack profile here.
You can find me over on the Cruise Boards too!

What’s your favorite cruise line?

As many say in this industry, my favorite cruise line is the next one I’m sailing with! But will always have a soft spot for Carnival Cruise Line, which is where I gained my passion for cruising and met my future wife Haiyan Ma on the Carnival Liberty.

What’s your top tip for new cruisers?

My top tip would be to never arrive for a cruise on the same day unless you live right next to the port of course! Flights can often get delayed and luggage can get lost, so arriving the night before and getting a hotel will provide a buffer, just in case issues arise. The cruise ship won’t wait for you.

You find out more about the Cruise Hive team right here.

2008
Started at Cruise Hive
478
Articles
Expertise
Cruises & Travel, Journalism, Media
100+
Cruises
34
Countries Visited
UK
Location Based

Articles By Emrys

Icon of the Seas Returns to Shipyard After Acing First Sea Trials

Construction of Icon of the Seas proceeds as planned as the future world's largest cruise ship returns from a successful first sea trials.

First Look as Biggest-Ever Cruise Ship Departs on Sea Trials

After a slight delay, Icon of the Seas has set off on her sea trials, the first images released by Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku show.

New Princess Cruise Ship to Feature First Rollglider at Sea

Princess Cruises unveils the first rollglider at sea as part of a new family activity deck on the much-anticipated new Sun Princess.

Refurbished Carnival Cruise Ship Completes Costa-Inspired Livery

Carnival Venezia has received the new livery during dry dock, with a Costa-inspired look following the transfer from the Italian brand.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is Bringing Responsible Innovations

Royal Caribbean releases a new video episode on Icon of the Seas and the ship's responsible innovations.

Cruise Ship Passenger Left Behind During World Voyage

A 72-year-old man who spent over £17,000 for a 100-day P&O world cruise was left behind in the Philippines.

What Color Is Port Side on a Cruise Ship?

Knowing what color is a port is important for the ship’s captain. Find out why and what the colors mean for your cruise in this article.

Cruise Ship Security Jobs – 5 Pros & Cons

Learn about the pros and cons of cruise ship security jobs. Get insights into what the job entails and what to expect.

Holland America Releases West Coast Cruises With Five Ships

Holland America's 2024-2025 Pacific cruises offer unforgettable experiences from Vancouver to Hawaii and the Panama Canal!

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