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

Harmony of the Seas is “Best Large Cruise Ship” of 2017

Royal Caribbeans Harmony of the Seas wins "Best Large Cruise Ship" of 2017 and got more votes than other large vessels in the industry.

Norwegian Joy Has the Best Hull Artwork of the Year

Norwegian Joy has won "Best Cruise Ship Hull Artwork" and received more votes than three other ships from different cruise lines.

SkyRide on Carnival Vista Wins “Best Cruise Ship Feature” Again!

Carnival Vista has won "Best Cruise Ship Feature" for the second year in a row and received more votes than five other cruise ship features.

Carnival Dream Wins “Best Cruise Ship Refurbishment” of the Year

Carnival Dream has come out on top for "Best Cruise Ship Refurbishment" in this year's Cruise Ship Awards.

This Carnival Cruise Line Burger Venue Was Voted Number 1

Guy's Burger Joint on Carnival Cruise Line was voted the #1 burger venue at sea in Cruise Hive's 2016 Cruise Ship Awards. See how other cruise lines ranked.

Norwegian Joy Wins Most Anticipated New Cruise Ship In 2017

Norwegian Joy has been voted as the "Most Anticipated New Cruise Ship In 2017" in this year's Cruise Ship Awards

Oasis of the Seas Wins Best Large Cruise Ship For 2016

Oasis of the Seas which is the first in its class has won "Best Large Cruise Ship" for 2016

Harmony of the Seas Wins Best New Cruise Ship After Close Battle

Harmony of the Seas which is operated by Royal Caribbean has won "Best New Cruise Ship In 2016"

SkyRide On Carnival Vista Is Best Cruise Ship Feature In 2016

SkyRide on Carnival Vista was voted the Best Cruise Ship Feature of 2016, beating Royal Caribbean, Princess, and Norwegian innovations in reader votes.

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