reserving shore excursions - how far in advance?

[SewCruise]

My cousin and I will be sailing on BOS in the Mediterranean June 2011 - we're starting to research the different ports and deciding what we want to see/do. We both want to avoid the excursions offered through RCL and would rather arrange our own excursions with private tour companies (along the lines of RomeinLimo, All Around Italy, etc.).

 

My question: How far in advance do we need to reserve our excursions to make sure we get the companies and itineraries we want?

[cb at sea]

I'd start as soon as I knew what I wanted to do! There's no reason to delay, financially. Just make sure of the cancellation policy before you book!