He was a jerk I suppose, but an entertaining one. My recollection he liked nothing on that cruise. About the best thing he had to say about anyone is that the Brits had the good sense to carry their own soap, knowing no one else in Europe used soap. Funny what you remember.
I think you mix satire and humor with some appreciation for what you’re reviewing.
In all fairness, I’m sure the offering was more extensive than what I read. Perhaps he did allude to more consequential things.
I’ve liked things he has written, so this shouldn’t be taken as an overall judgment of the man and his works.