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
475
Articles
Expertise
Cruises & Travel, Journalism, Media
100+
Cruises
34
Countries Visited
UK
Location Based

Articles By Emrys

Royal Caribbean Ships by Size: Largest to Smallest

Here's a rundown of Royal Caribbean ships by size, starting from the largest to smallest by gross tonnage.

Royal Caribbean’s Alaska Cruise Ships: Which One Should You Choose?

Compare Royal Caribbean’s Alaska ships and find the best fit for your itinerary, budget, and onboard style. See ship highlights, routes, and expert tips.

Best Cruise Lines for Alaska in 2026: Top Picks for Every Type of Traveler

Figuring out what's the best cruise line for Alaska? We'll guide you through what cruise lines to choose for your type of experience.

Halifax Cruise Port Guide: Terminals, Parking, and Getting Around

Departing from the Halifax Cruise Port? This guide covers everything about this downtown Halifax port of call that welcomes nearly 200 ships each year.

Norwegian Cruise Ships By Age: Newest to Oldest (2027-1998)

List of all Norwegian cruise ships by age from newest to oldest, along with ship details, their stats, and when they entered service.

Tortola Cruise Port: Getting Around, Piers, and What’s Nearby

Get everything you need to know about Tortola Cruise Port, including getting around, pier details, transportation, and what’s nearby for cruise visitors.

What is Wave Season and Why You Should Care

Wave season runs from January to March and offers some of the best cruise deals of the year. Learn what it is, why it matters, and how to find the biggest savings.

Norwegian Cruise Line Pushes Back Departure Due to Airspace Closure

Norwegian Epic delays its San Juan departure after a Puerto Rico airspace closure, with other cruise ships also adjusting schedules across the Caribbean.

Mobile Cruise Port: How to Get There, Piers, and Full Guide

Planning a cruise from the Mobile Cruise Port? Get details on how to get there, where to park, and the best sights to see before embarking along the Mobile River.

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