However, what you get are some fairly general and fairly basic common sense lists that are as applicable to personal safety and any trip. It reads more like the "lists of" things you get in magazines that are space fillers and "fluff".

I think the problem lies in the fact that he is trying to serve too wide a target audience and so ends up probably not satisfying anyone. If you are looking for some light reading that will take a few minutes then this book is for you. If you are looking for real help and guidance on how to go about getting the most about cruising, then this book is not for you.


Just general knowledge   October 1, 2004
 9 out of 9 found this review helpful

I was very disapointed with this book. The concept sounded great, but the problem is that there is no real substance and no real true insight. Perhaps the problem is that he is trying to write a book that is covering so much ground and has to apply to a vast array of ships, types of cruises and different levels of travellers of varied experience and so falls "between two stools". It takes almost no time to read and I felt somewhat let down as it was just a series of very general things about travel. I think this concept will only work if they were much more targeted e.g. A Guide to First Time Cruisers on Carnival Ships/ Guide for more expereinced cruisers to get more out of their cruise on Cunard ships etc


A cute rendition of common sense.   July 5, 1999
 5 out of 5 found this review helpful

Not only is this book little (literally), it contains facts even novice cruisers are aware of (such as myself). Occasionally, I felt as though some of the comments were condescending, don't do this, do do that..., etc. There were a few nice ideas in the book but overall I was disappointed in the quality of the book and for paying extra to have it shipped faster to me.


A first-time cruisers cruise bible!   February 6, 1999
 2 out of 4 found this review helpful

My wife and I are planning our first cruise, and what a great surprise to read The Essential Little Cruise Book. Jim West has a hit, and I am sure anyone who reads this, and is planning their first cruise, will find the information to be more helpful than anything your travel agent could ever tell you. I have recommended it to people I know, and have even called his travel agency in Illinois to have him personally plan my next cruise. Here's his toll free number if anyone else would like to call him. 800-708-0880


A first-time cruisers cruise bible!   February 6, 1999
 2 out of 3 found this review helpful

My wife and I are planning our first cruise, and what a great surprise to read The Essential Little Cruise Book. Jim West has a hit, and I am sure anyone who reads this, and is planning their first cruise, will find the information to be more helpful than anything your travel agent could ever tell you. I have recommended it to people I know, and have even called his travel agency in Illinois to have him personally plan my next cruise. Here's his toll free number if anyone else would like to call him. 800-708-0880