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
1366
Articles
Expertise
Cruises & Travel, Journalism, Media
100+
Cruises
34
Countries Visited
UK
Location Based

Articles By Emrys

Belize Cruise Port Guide: Tendering, Amenities and More

If your cruise vacation includes a visit to Belize, there's a good chance you'll pass through Belize Cruise Port. Learn all about it with this guide.

One of These Mexico Cruise Ports Could Be on Your Itinerary

The tropical coastlines of Mexico are home to some truly amazing cruise ports. Learn all about them with this complete guide to Mexico cruise ports.

Royal Caribbean Makes Last-Minute Port Cancellations

Royal Caribbean cancels two ports last-minute for Utopia of the Seas in the Bahamas due to inclement weather.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Delayed Due to Technical Issue in Mexico

Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas is delayed after it was stuck overnight in Mexico with a technical issue.

Hilo Cruise Port Guide: Terminals, Piers and Getting Around

Will your Hawaiian cruise dock at Hilo Cruise Port? Learn about this Big Island port, such as terminals, getting around, and what's nearby.

Boston Cruise Port: Getting There, Piers, Terminals and More

Planning on visiting the Boston Cruise Port? Read about the facilities, nearby attractions, and how to get to and from this popular port.

What Airports Are Near Port Canaveral Cruise Port?

Many cruise passengers depart from Cape Canaveral, Florida, so we have created an in-depth guide to airports near Port Canaveral Cruise Port.

New Jersey Cruise Port: Piers, Terminals, and Getting Around

Planning a cruise out of New Jersey Cruise Port? Here's our guide on the Cape Liberty facility, getting around, and what's nearby.

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

If you're taking a cruise to the British Virgin Islands, there is a good chance that you will stop at Tortola Cruise Port. Learn about the port and surrounding Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park here.

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