Riding on the Maid Of the Mist is one of the experiences that everyone should experience at least once in our lives. The route of this boat takes us to the imposing Niagara Falls.
This is not just any tour.
Have you ever wanted to see them up close? When traveling on the Maid Of the Mist you have the opportunity to admire them so close that you will have to cover yourself very well to avoid getting soaked.
MAID OF THE MIST
History of the Maid of the Mist
The history of this boat arises from the idea of some entrepreneurs to perfect the way of making trips across the Niagara River.
This is how it happened to use a larger steam-powered vessel that could transport not only people but also other types of cargo.
The Maid of the Mist maiden voyage took place in 1846. Very soon in the year 1848 they changed the commercial purpose of this ship and oriented it towards tourism. This is still its use today.
Given the power of the river, the risk involved in crossing it and of course the technological advances, the Maid of the Mist boat has evolved significantly from the first steamboat to the boat we know today.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tours
An interesting aspect about the Maid of the Mist boat tour is that the Niagara River connects the United States and Canada. Therefore, the route of this boat covers both countries.
The trip starts at the American Lake near the Rainbow Bridge. As it advances we are approaching the Canadian zone, which is the most awaited point by tourists, because it is there where you will find the great waterfall.
The tour lasts about half an hour and is very interesting for its contrast from less to more.
From the U.S. side the ride is much calmer. We can appreciate the panorama and admire the beauty of the American falls.
But as the boat approaches the main waterfall, you can feel the force of the river increase, the fog rolls in and the Maid of the Mist boat’s engines are at full throttle to withstand the current.
Some people may think that this is a risky trip. It would certainly be very dangerous to cross this river in a boat that is not suitable for it.
But this is not the case on the Maid of the Mist. The trip is very safe, each passenger is provided with what is necessary to stay protected.
And in fact, it is so safe that they can focus on taking photos and videos at their leisure while enjoying the ride.
Tips for enjoying the Maid of the Mist route
One of the key aspects that every tourist should know regarding the route of this vessel is that it does not maintain its activity all year round.
As it is well known, the winter is very intense in the area and that is why there are times when the ice blocks prevent this ship from sailing.
So when is it convenient to visit Niagara Falls? It is advisable to plan your trip during the spring or summer.
It is during these periods that the Maid Of the Mist panoramic boat makes its tour.
The main attraction is the Horseshoe Falls, which are located on the Canadian side. However, on the US side you can also see the American Falls.
Another interesting fact is that, at the beginning, both the boats that left from the United States and the one belonging to the Canadian side, were called Maid of the Mist.
However, as of 2019 this has changed and the Canada area vessel is now known to us by the name Voyager to the Falls.
Every boat trip generates a question in its passengers: What is the best part of the trip to appreciate? And the Maid of the Mist is no exception.
Fortunately, the route is circular. Therefore, on the outward and return journeys there is an opportunity to appreciate the whole panorama.
Those who wish to admire the falls up close will have to stand on the high deck Maid Of the Mist. From there it will be necessary to cover yourself to avoid getting soaked and damaging the equipment that accompanies you.
Information about Niagara River tours
The Maid Of the Mist tour is part of the activities that can be done on the Niagara River tour, but not the only one. In the surrounding area, on both the Canadian and U.S. sides, there are many attractions.
Among them is the Journey Behind the Falls, from where you can see the falls from the inside.
You can also visit the Skylon Tower and Prospect Point Observation Tower and enjoy the view.
If you are looking for leisure and entertainment, the Clifton Hill area on the Canadian side is where you should go. There you will find stores, casinos, restaurants and many attractions.
In terms of budget, a ride on Maid Of the Mist costs around $20. And in the surrounding attractions the cost of the attractions varies from 1 to 20$.
Based on these references, it is possible to calculate the total investment needed to cover lodging, food and enjoy the experience without being limited by money.
If you need accommodation and you want to enjoy several days in New York to include your visit to Niagara Falls boat, do not hesitate to book the tour from New York where you will enjoy every moment. In the following link you can find more information NIAGARA FALLS TOUR FROM NEW YORK
In any case, there is so much to see and learn that a single visit will not be enough to enjoy the experience to the fullest. So don’t waste time worrying about your budget.
Our advice is that, once you are encouraged to visit the Niagara River and get to know it closely from the Maid Of the Mist boat tour, do not miss the opportunity to make the most of each visit and let yourself be amazed by this incomparable gift of nature.
