Exploring Niagara Falls By Boat: Tour Hours

Niagara Falls is a natural wonder that attracts millions of tourists every year. One of the top attractions is the boat tour, which takes visitors up close to the falls and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The boat tour is approximately 20 minutes long and typically operates from May to November, with the exact dates depending on weather conditions. Peak season is during the summer months, so visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays is ideal for avoiding crowds. This article will provide an overview of the boat tours at Niagara Falls, including the best times to visit and what to expect.

Boat tours operate seasonally, typically from May to November

Boat tours at Niagara Falls operate seasonally, typically from May to November. The exact opening and closing dates depend on the weather and can vary from year to year, but the boat tours usually begin operating in May and stay open until mid-to-late November.

During the season, it is best to go on a boat tour early in the day to avoid the longer lines that often form later. Peak hours start around 11 am, so it is recommended to go for the first tour of the day or between 8:30 am and 10:30 am to beat the crowds. The boat tours tend to be quieter after 6 pm as well, and the boats run every 15 minutes until 8:30 pm from June to Labour Day.

If you want to avoid crowds, it is also best to visit on a weekday as weekends and holidays are usually the busiest times of the year. Visiting early or late in the season, such as in May or October and November, when school is in session, can also mean shorter lines and waits.

The boat tour season typically coincides with milder weather, but it is important to check the local forecast and prepare for varying conditions. In the event of extreme weather, tours may be postponed or cancelled.

The boat tour is a popular attraction at Niagara Falls, offering a 20-minute ride that takes visitors up close to the Horseshoe Falls. The tour provides breathtaking views of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Visitors can experience the thunderous roar and immense power of the falls, as well as the refreshing mist. A complimentary recyclable poncho is provided to keep dry.

The boat tour is a must-do experience at Niagara Falls, offering an unforgettable journey to the base of the falls and a thrilling encounter with the iconic Canadian Horseshoe Falls.

The Voyage to the Falls Boat Tour is the most popular option

The Voyage to the Falls Boat Tour: Niagara Falls' Most Popular Option

The 20-minute boat ride is thrilling and unforgettable, and you'll feel the thunderous roar and immense power of the falls as you get misted on your face. The tour is operated by Hornblower Niagara City Cruises, which runs from late April or May to October or November each year, depending on the weather.

Tickets and Pricing

Niagara City Cruises is the only official supplier of boat tours to Niagara Falls, and tickets can be purchased on their website or in person. Ticket prices for adults are $33.50 CAD, and $23.50 CAD for children aged 3-12. Infants aged 2 and under go free.

When to Go

The peak season for boat tours is during the summer months, but this is also the busiest time for tourism in Niagara Falls, so expect crowds and longer wait times. If you want to beat the crowds, it's best to go early in the morning, with peak hours starting around 11 am. The tour is also quieter after 6 pm, and the boats run every 15 minutes from June to Labour Day. Weekends and holidays are also busy, especially during the summer, so weekdays are the best option if you want to avoid the crowds.

What to Wear

During the summer, it's best to wear lightweight and breathable clothing, and quick-drying fabric is recommended as you will get wet! Niagara City Cruises provides a free poncho, but this only covers your upper body, so be prepared for your legs and feet to get wet. Water shoes or waterproof sandals with good traction are the best footwear options as the boat deck can get slippery. During spring and fall, you'll need to add extra layers, and a waterproof jacket and closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Other Tips

• Book your tickets in advance during the busy summer months to save time.
• Weekdays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are the least busy days.
• For the best photos, move to the back of the boat when the boat turns around to head away from the Horseshoe Falls.
• Protect your phone and camera with a waterproof case or Ziploc bag.
• Bring a small towel to wipe the mist from your face and your devices.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the mist.
• You can recycle the poncho after the tour if you don't want to keep it.
• The boat tour runs rain or shine, so don't worry about the rain!

The Falls Fireworks Cruise offers a different experience

The cruise operates on state-of-the-art 700-passenger catamaran boats, which sail up the Niagara River on the Canadian side. Passengers can enjoy music and purchase local craft beer and wines from the onboard licensed bar. The cruise takes you past the American and Bridal Veil Falls and up to the base of the enormous Canadian Horseshoe Falls, which is also lit up in the evening for a truly magical experience.

The Falls Fireworks Cruise is a light mist experience, and passengers are provided with a complimentary recyclable mist poncho to keep them dry. This tour is fully handicapped and stroller accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the spectacular natural wonder of Niagara Falls from the water.

The cruise usually operates during the summer months, with specific dates in June, November, and around Labour Day (September) being the prime time to view the fireworks. It's important to note that the fireworks display is weather-dependent, and schedules may change without prior notice.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office

There are a few options for purchasing tickets for a boat tour of Niagara Falls. The first is to buy them online, in advance of your visit. This is a good option if you are visiting during the busy summer months, as it will save you from waiting in line to buy them in person when you arrive.

The second option is to purchase tickets in person at the ticket office on the day of your visit. This is possible, but it is worth noting that tickets bought in person are only valid on the day of purchase. It is also worth noting that the ticket office closes 15 minutes before the last scheduled departure.

If you are planning to take the Maid of the Mist boat tour, you can purchase tickets online or at the ticket office. This tour departs from the US side of the falls. For the Hornblower or Niagara City Cruises, you can buy tickets online or at the Niagara City Cruises Ticket Plaza at 5920 Niagara Parkway.

The best time to visit is early in the morning to avoid crowds

The Best Time to Visit Niagara Falls Boat Tours to Avoid the Crowds

The boat tours at Niagara Falls are a must-do when visiting the area. To make the most of your experience and avoid the crowds, it is best to plan your visit early in the morning. Here are some tips and insights to help you make the most of your trip:

Early Bird Gets the Worm

The earlier you arrive, the better! Aim to be there right when the boat tours open for the day. While the specific opening time can vary, generally, the tours start operating between 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. By arriving early, you can beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful and intimate experience. This is especially important during the peak season, which runs from June to September.

Weekdays are Your Friend

If possible, plan your visit during a weekday. Weekends and holidays tend to be the busiest times at Niagara Falls. By visiting on a weekday, you'll encounter fewer crowds and shorter lines. This means more time enjoying the breathtaking views and less time waiting in line.

Shoulder Seasons are Ideal

The shoulder seasons, which are spring (April to early June) and fall (mid-September to November), offer fewer crowds. During these times, you can take advantage of cooler temperatures and more comfortable touring conditions. Just be sure to dress in layers, as it can be chilly, especially on the water.

Book in Advance

If you're visiting during the busy summer months, it is highly recommended to purchase your tickets in advance. This will save you from waiting in line to buy tickets when you arrive. You can book your tickets online through the official websites of the tour operators, such as Niagara City Cruises or Maid of the Mist.

Plan Your Route

There are two sides to the falls – the Canadian side and the American side. On the Canadian side, you'll find Niagara City Cruises (owned by the Hornblower Group), which offers the classic Voyage to the Falls Boat Tour. This 20-minute ride takes you up close to the magnificent Horseshoe Falls. On the American side, you can opt for the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour, which also provides stunning views of the falls.

Enjoy the Fireworks

If you don't mind staying out a bit later, the Falls Fireworks Cruise offered by Niagara City Cruises is a fantastic option. This 40-minute evening cruise departs at 9:30 p.m., allowing you to admire the fireworks and illuminated falls without the daytime crowds.

Remember, the key to avoiding crowds is to plan your visit early in the day, on a weekday, and during the shoulder seasons. With a bit of advance planning, you can fully enjoy the beauty and excitement of the Niagara Falls boat tours without the hustle and bustle of peak times.

Frequently asked questions