Customer Reviews

Happy Sails: The Carefree Cruiser's Handbook

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Packed with great information, Happy Sails is also a hilarious read--I frequently found myself laughing out loud at some of Pam Kane's quips. This is not your super-serious-counting-coup-by-traveling-every-single-ocean-liner guide book; it's written by a woman who's been there, done that and would like to save you some of the learning curve.

She's right, no one on a cruise ship really cares what you're wearing, but any woman will obsess about it anyway--and overpack for it, too. She tells you how to pack, WHAT to pack and when to wear it (what the heck DO you wear for "informal night" anyway?).

If you're going on a cheapie cruise, a windjammer or private ship, nope, this book isn't for you. But if you're going on any of the cruise lines you see advertised on TV, get this book before you buy your tickets!

Happy Sails is a gold mine of information and ideas about how to get the most out of your next cruise vacation. Even experienced cruisers will find Pam Kane's unique perspective refreshing and helpful. Have you ever thought about a systematic way to pack for a cruise, accounting for the limited space of ship cabins and the times you won't have access to all your luggage? Pam Kane has, and she describes her system in the book. Do you want to take a disabled loved-one on a cruise, but don't know whether its possible or how to address special needs? Pam Kane tells you what to expect and how to handle the issues that arise.

For first-timers - and cruise-curious people who aren't sure if cruising is for them - this book is indispensable. Pam Kane addresses all the issues people worry about: choosing cabins, traveling with children, onboard activities, shore excursions, shopping, handling the copious food and drink offerings without over indulging, money and tipping and medical / health issues. She does it all with a sharp wit that makes this a fun read as well as a valuable reference.

I've waded through a whole bunch of books about cruises and cruising. If I had to pick just one, this would be it. Tips on what to bring, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to enhance your trip. A tremendous amount of useful information, and it's fun to read.

I found this book to be very informative and helpful - the FIRST time I read it under the label of "Cruise Control". The information is great, but almost entirely repetitive of her first book. When I read this one, I was disappointed that I had invested in the duplicate disguised with a different title.

Ms. Kane has done it again. As with her first book, Cruise Control, Happy Sails is chock full of helpful, practical information, much of which isn't found in typical books of advice on cruising. Her style is brief and to the point, but always written with wit and flair. It was a pleasure to read and very helpful to me while planning my second cruise. Cruise Control prepared me for my first cruise; Happy Sails gave me even more information for a successful sail. Keep them coming, Pam! I'm ready to plan a third!

I read Pam Kane's book before I went on my first cruise, and I can tell you I felt like an old hand with all the info she imparted. It's also a quick read and easy to navigate for info. Her packing tips are a little more intricate than mine, but have all the details you need to know on how to prep for a cruise.

Would highly recommend this for someone going on their first cruise.

Harry

I've always felt that too many people spend too much time worrying about their upcoming cruise--first timers and veterans alike. Sometimes, between worrying about tipping, dress codes, packing, sightseeing, air connections, changing money and all the rest, many folks forget that cruising is supposed to be about fun. . .

Or as Pam Kane says, "Happy Sails."

Keeping the focus on enjoying yourself rather than on "rules" is what makes this book a standout. It's a fast, dishy and informative read that should have even the most uncertain first-time cruiser boldy facing the good times ahead. And those with many cruises in their logbooks will find a steamer trunk full of new tips worth trying.

All travel books should be so straightforward and reassuring.

My husband and I have been talking for years about taking a cruise, but we've hesitated because we just didn't know what to expect. We are both complete novices about cruise ships -- what to pack, what to do, what it costs, how to pick a good cabin, what to do in case of a problem, etc. etc., the list goes on and on. What I like most about this book is that it is short on personal anecdotes but packed with useful information. From packing to dining, port activities to customs on board -- it's an essential "how-to" book. I learned a *lot* that I never would have known till taking that first cruise (and unfortunately, making a lot of "first" mistakes). Now I feel that I know more about what to expect from a cruise, and I feel much more prepared (and comfortable) in making reservations and talking to a travel agent and our needs and wants. I highly recommend this book to anyone who's thinking of taking a cruise but feels overwhelmed by their lack of knowledge about the whole process.

Happy Sails: The Carefree Cruiser's Handbook by cruise maven Pam Kane is a thoroughly "user friendly" compilation of useful and practical advice for anyone seeking to enjoy a cruise. Ranging from good manners while aboard; to enjoying great food without gaining weight; to tips for differently-abled travelers; to strategies for touring and shopping foreign ports, and so much more, Happy Sails is filled from cover to cover with illustrative anecdotes, fun suggestions, and a very friendly tone pervade. This superbly written and presented travel guide for anyone looking forward to a cruise, whether it's their first voyage or simply the latest of many ocean adventures.

I have done many cruises and Ms. Kane's book has information that can be used by people who have had 30 cruises or are looking for information for their first.

The information in regard to packing, what to wear, money, cabin selection, is right on and gave me information that I was not aware of.

The only thing I disagreed with is her statement that a Leatherman is not an essential item to pack. I guess I will overlook that.

This book answers questions that many people, including myself, didn't know they had, as well as questions that people do have.

If you are cruising or thinking about it you need to read this book.