Pre-Booking Activities in Queensland
 

Just wondering if it's necessary to pre-book sightseeing activities in the Cairns, Port Douglas area for Reef tours and Daintree excursions and if so, how far in advance of our trip would be appropriate. We will be traveling in late Sept. '07 and staying in the region for about 8 days. Thanks.

Weather is most important element in reef trip but with 8 days you've got a fair bit of wriggle room. If you're only talking about a day trip to reef would be inclined to wait until you get here, get the latest weather forecast and go from there. But if you have your heart set on a particular reef trip, book it in advance, there'll be no penalty if you change the date because of weather, but probably will if you cancel it at last minute.

Daintree excursions with operators who
take small numbers should definitely be booked well in advance - with Pete Baxendell, about 6 weeks. Otherwise, you're OK to book after you arrive.

If you are talking about one day excursion, then no. Futhermore, if the weather is not good, you don't want to go out on a reef trip because you won't see much except people getting sick.

We are thinking about going to Australia. If you were going to book activities and guides, how would you do it? Local travel agent, web, other? Thanks ((*))

Hi Jed

I booked everything either on the web before arriving in Australia or with local offices/tourist spots when I arrived in Australia. However, it depends on what you're planning and when you're planning to do it. Certain tours/activities may fill up more quickly than others at certain times.

Hi Jed:

I also pre-booked my tours via internet before our trip to Australia. The tours I pre-booked were primarily ones I had read about on Fodors that received outstanding reviews (Pete Baxendell & Daintree Air). I wanted to ensure I did not miss out on a tour by waiting to book when I arrived.

The only problem I can see with pre-booking is inclement weather.

I also had a few flex days in my trip in which I planned spontaneous tours.

Thanks to both. ((*))