When to make reservations - Hawaii?
 

Please refer to my Big Island & Kauai itineraries. I am not sure if I should wait until I'm 'on island' to make reservations for the Helicopter rides, kayak trips and ATV tour. I want specific companies.

Anyone with experience have recommendastions as to this?

I would book Kipu Ranch ahead, but confirm cancellation policy with them.

As far as kayak, if you are considering the napali coast kayak, landing at Polihale, reconsider. I have friends that run marathons that were intimidated. And Roxy who used to post here scared the bejeesus out of me. It is a tour that you must be prepared for, body and mind.

Which companies do you want?

When we did an ATV & a helicopter tour, I had booked ahead, but when the first day we were there Charlie ended up in the clinic and we had to reschedule everything. Didn't have any problems rescheduling.

You sure you want to helicopter?

Which companies do you want?

When we did an ATV & a helicopter tour, I had booked ahead, but the first day we were there Charlie ended up in the clinic and we had to reschedule everything. Didn't have any problems rescheduling.

You sure you want to helicopter?

Kealani: Tell me about Roxy's experience - I've read some of her reports, but don't recall anything scary.

On Big Island: Kona Boys 1/2 day kayak to Cook's, Dive Makai (Night Manta Ray Dive) & Blue Hawaiian Helicopter (Circle of Fire).

On Kauai: Napali Kayak, Blue Hawaiian & Kipu ATV.

We booked Blue Hawaii on BI the day before we flew. It was kind of a last minute decision. This was in October, so not the busiest time there. We also only had limited time on BI but we lucked out. It was wonderful - -we did the full 2 hour tour. Buy the DVD -- it isn't hollywood quality, but we love watching it and reliving the experience.
Debi

Ya know, if you want specific companies on specific dates and times, you might want to go ahead and book now.

As 'lani said, be sure to know the cancellation policies.

I think you should post the photos here of you getting your drivers license for Hawaii!!

??? Do you mean Diver's license?...actually it is a certification, and I'm only working on the first level...open water.

Yeah, I've looked at the cancellation policies. Varies between 50% of the price and 100% depending on how soon you cancel before the reserved date.

Debi's post makes me feel alittle better about waiting in general though.

And, yes, if we actually do the Heli we will spring the extra $25 for the DVD.

I guess I was wondering if I was going to find great coupons at the airport on arrival to the islands, making me regret getting the reservations early.

I know of some internet rates and coupons (I've printed the 10% Kona Boys one), but I'll be leaving for a Perido meeting the week before the HI trip, and won't be around a computer...won't come back home, will just leave from Mobile for HI.

DS says he's taking his laptop, but if he has trouble connecting (I don't know much about those things) I'm alittle afraid I may miss out on the IN special.

Blue Hawaiian had a special on the internet, but as we were so close in time, I didn't want to risk using the form online to make a reservation, lest we not get on the flight. We called them and they confirmed and gave us the internet special price anyway.
Debi

lol.....yes, I meant divers license! But, I thought I was being a comedian. Guess not, huh?

Yes, he will probably have trouble connecting. Or, he may get lucky. Just watch signs for free Wifi, etc.

((r)

That's nice to know, DebiNM!