If your group has 2-4 people, private speedboat and cave tours let you set your own pace and hit the spots that matter to you - without waiting for stragglers at each lagoon. Group expeditions work if you're solo or want the social buzz and shared cost over 2-3 days.

Private tours here fill up fast during peak season (October to May). Book at least 1-2 weeks ahead if you're traveling then; in shoulder months, a few days usually works.

Seaplane transfers are the quickest and most scenic option, though they cost more. Island hopping by speedboat is slower but connects you to the reefs and caves along the way. Check before you go for current transport schedules.

Most private tours bundle speedboat rental, snorkeling gear, cave entry, and a beach lunch. Some add drinks or hotel pickup - always confirm with your operator what's covered.

Yes, as long as kids are okay in a boat for hours and comfortable snorkeling in open water. Pukaway Cave swims are manageable for confident swimmers; check age and swimming ability requirements with your guide before booking.

October through May brings calm seas and clear water for snorkeling and cave swims. June to September can get rough, though fewer tourists means cheaper rates - check weather forecasts before committing.

A guide is worth it here - they know which caves have safe entry points, where the reefs glow at specific tides, and the history of the shipwrecks. You can hire a boatman-only for less, but you'll miss the context that makes these islands special.