Happy Sails: The Carefree Cruiser's Handbook

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 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

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.

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!

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!