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

Wonder of the Seas Size: Just How Big Does the Ship Compare?

Discover the Wonder of the Seas size, from its 235,600 GT volume to its length, height, decks, and how it compares to Royal Caribbean’s biggest ships.

New Cruise Ships Arriving in 2026 You Shouldn’t Miss

Explore all the new cruise ships arriving in 2026, from Disney Adventure to Legend of the Seas. See debut dates, standout features, and why these ships are making waves.

MSC’s Newest Ships and What’s On Order

Explore MSC’s newest cruise ships plus exciting vessels on order for the coming years.

Celebrity Ships By Age: Newest to Oldest (2028-2000)

We run through all the Celebrity cruise ships by age, from newest to oldest, starting from the Edge class to the current oldest in the fleet.

Celebrity Cruise Ship Classes: 5 Different Types Explained

From innovative Edge ships to intimate Millennium vessels, discover every Celebrity Cruises class and find the perfect voyage for your style.

How Much Does a Cruise Ship Cost? Construction to Daily Operation

This guide explains how much cruise ships cost to build and operate, why they’re so expensive, where they’re made, and how cruise lines earn profits.

Star of the Seas Size and Stats: How It Towers Over Other Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas sets records as the largest cruise ship. Compare size, stats, cabins, and neighborhoods in this full guide.

Royal Caribbean Ships By Age: Newest to Oldest (2027-1996)

We list all the Royal Caribbean ships by age, from newest to oldest, including all the classes, and what new ships are joining the fleet.

What Are Royal Caribbean’s Icon-Class Cruise Ships?

Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class redefines cruising with record‑breaking ships, unique neighborhoods, and endless adventure.

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