Summer's the obvious choice for water-based activities - the harbour cruises run regularly and the weather's cooperative. Spring and autumn work well if you prefer quieter harbours and easier e-biking conditions. Winter's doable but cruise schedules thin out, so check before you go.

Guided fossil hunts and multi-day Jurassic Coast experiences benefit from advance booking, especially school holidays. Harbour cruises and e-bike excursions are usually more flexible, but booking a week or two ahead is sensible for peak summer weekends.

If you've got any boat confidence, self-drive boat hire gives you genuine freedom to explore at your own pace. For a more relaxed experience, the cruises handle the logistics while you enjoy the views - they're particularly good for combining sightseeing with meals.

The fossil hunts absolutely are - a guide shows you what you'd otherwise miss and explains the geology properly. For coastal cruises, it depends: guided birdwatching trips add expertise; a casual fish-and-chips cruise is just transport with dinner included.

E-bike excursions work well for older kids once they're confident cyclists. Harbour cruises suit all ages - the shorter ones especially. Fossil hunts appeal to children who like digging around, and the Etches Museum is genuinely engaging if your kids are curious about dinosaurs.

Yes. Poole town itself is walkable, and you can hire boats or e-bikes directly from the harbour. For reaching the Purbecks and surrounding villages, bus services exist but aren't frequent - check local transport before you go if you're planning multiple day trips.

It varies. Fish-and-chips cruises include the meal; BBQ cruises include food and often a drink; sundowner cruises are about the experience and views. Check the specific tour details - some include commentary, others are self-guided.