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

Cruise Like a Pro: 20 Mistakes Newbies Always Make

First‑time cruisers often make avoidable mistakes. From overpacking to missing dining perks, here are 20 tips to cruise like a pro.

Tributes Pour In for Florida Teen Who Died Aboard Carnival Cruise Ship

The deceased guest on Carnival Horizon over the weekend has been identified as Titusville teen Anna Kepner.

Think Cruise Ships Are Floating Petri Dishes? These 12 Facts Say Otherwise

Think cruise ships are floating petri dishes? Think again. Here are 12 reasons why cruising is cleaner, safer, and smarter than the myths suggest.

10 Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid (and Where to Book)

Not all cruise ship cabins are created equal. Learn which cabins to avoid and why they might ruin your trip (or when they could still work).

What You Need to Know About Jacksonville Cruise Parking

Everything you need to know about Jacksonville cruise port parking with nearby lots, rates, and how to get there.

The Most Haunted Cruise Ships and Spooky Venues Onboard

Let's take a look at some of the most haunted cruise ships and spooky venues that you'll ever come across, if you dare to!

How Much Do Cruise Ship Workers Make? Salaries by Job Revealed

Wondering how much cruise ship workers make? Learn the average salary of cruise ship employees, factors that affect pay, highest-paying positions, and a breakdown of salaries by job.

What Are the 10 Different Carnival Ship Classes?

Discover all the Carnival ship classes in this complete guide. Learn which ships belong to each class, their size, features, highlights, and who they’re best suited for.

How Back-to-Back Cruises Work (and Save You Money)

Curious about back-to-back cruises? Learn what they are, how they work, the benefits of booking them, and how you can save money on one seamless vacation.

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