that having a computer laser printer on board became a de rigeur item for the 21st century cruiser?

Don't laugh --cruising is hard work, and dealing with complex entry and paperwork procedures for some countries is made easier by having desk jockey paper pushing experience. Ever had to get notarized quadruplicates of ten 2-page entry forms that you first had to fill out in triplicate (and provide back-up photocopies of), each attached with a photograph and complete set of ship's papers, and personal tropical disease immunization records for the past five years? Like I said, cruising is hard work ;-)