What Time Is the Midnight Buffet?: Tales from the Cruise Adventure of a Lifetime

chesterh (Richard Holleran)
iUniverse (2007)
ISBN 9781583484883
Reviewed by Deb Shunamon for Reader Views (1/08)


If you are planning a cruise vacation, this is exactly the type of book you would be wise to read. Duct tape-using, Jimmy Buffet-loving, Richard Holleran has written a fun account of his first cruise trip with his wife, and filled it with an incredible amount of practical information.

Although Holleran states that they were usually quite careful with their money, no expense was spared this time with a Sky Suite, and its unexpected perks, booked for their trip. The top-notch service and physical space associated with this type of reservation was surprising to learn about, as I had assumed that all cruise packages were automatically like theirs, and readers will be able to learn a lot from what was not included in the Holleran’s vacation package and be able to plan their own trips more effectively. In addition, I was surprised at the amount of money that was required to be spent each and every day onboard; cruises are not inexpensive holidays to take. From the hazards of clean windows, to how to dress and tip; from the clock-work functioning of the ship and its crew to the abundant places and times to eat, drink, and entertain yourself onboard; to exploring on and off the ship by yourself or in groups, and how to avoid the lineups; there are very few questions a vacationer might have that Holleran does not answer.

Even though the author and wife traveled alone, this book is suitable for all travelers planning a cruise vacation, including families, as a very thorough account seems to be given. Richard Holleran’s descriptions of daily activities, the other travelers you might meet online or onboard, and how quickly the delightful pampering seems to come to an end (so get as much in as you can) were a lot of fun to read. At a short 108 pages, “What Time Is the Midnight Buffet?” is a great starting place for anyone hoping to take a cruise, or an armchair, vacation.

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