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
484
Articles
Expertise
Cruises & Travel, Journalism, Media
100+
Cruises
34
Countries Visited
UK
Location Based

Articles By Emrys

The Bridge Says “Bye” as Two Passengers Miss the Cruise Ship

Two passengers missed the cruise ship in St. Maarten and didn't look too happy when it was moving away from the pier.

22 Must-Know Things About the New Orleans Cruise Terminal

Our full guide on the New Orleans cruise terminal to make sure you are fully prepared for your cruise vacation. With tips locations and more.

Cruise Ship Passengers Injured After Vehicle Ends Up in Sea

Royal Caribbean cruise ship passengers have been injured during a vehicle accident in St. Maarten in the eastern Caribbean.

8 Must Know Things About the Manhattan Cruise Terminal

Read these must know things before your cruise vacation out of the Manhattan Cruise Terminal in New York City including tips and resources.

Carnival Cruise Ship Rescues Sailor from Sinking Boat

The Carnival Paradise has come to the rescue of a sailor who was on a sinking boat. The Carnival cruise ship was heading back to Florida at the time.

Carnival Cruise Ship Rescues 23 People Adrift at Sea

A Carnival cruise ship has rescued 23 people from a disabled boat just off the Yucatan Peninsula after being adrift at sea.

Carnival Cruise Line Reveals New Secluded Retreat for Mardi Gras

Carnival Mardi Gras which is a new class cruise ship coming to Carnival Cruise Line in 2020 will feature new premium suites and a new secluded retreat.

Three Oasis of the Seas Sailings Canceled After Crane Damage

Royal Caribbean has canceled three Oasis of the Seas sailings after a crane collapsed onto the ship during dry dock in Freeport, Bahamas.

Another Cruise Line Helps Crew of Crane Hit Oasis of the Seas

Another cruise line has come to help those crew members who had to evacuate Oasis of the Seas after a crane collapsed onto the ship.

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