A Niagara Falls tour that includes a boat ride and a Journey Behind the Falls offers one of the most thrilling ways to experience this natural wonder. Situated on the border between Ontario, Canada, and New York, USA, Niagara Falls is made up of three massive waterfalls—Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. The combination of a boat ride up to the base of the falls and the journey behind them provides an up-close experience of the falls’ sheer power and beauty.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Niagara Falls Tour, including highlights of the boat ride and the Journey Behind the Falls, what to expect on the tour, and tips for making the most of your visit.
Why Choose a Niagara Falls Tour with Boat Ride and Journey Behind the Falls?
Visiting Niagara Falls is an awe-inspiring experience, and adding a boat ride and Journey Behind the Falls to your itinerary allows you to witness the majesty of the falls from multiple perspectives. The boat ride takes you close enough to feel the mist on your face, while the Journey Behind the Falls lets you explore tunnels that lead directly to viewing portals behind the cascading water.
Key Benefits of This Tour
- Up-Close Views: Get up close and personal with the power of Niagara Falls from both a boat ride and tunnels behind the falls, offering two unique perspectives.
- Thrilling Boat Ride: Feel the raw power of the falls as you cruise directly into the mist on a Hornblower (in Canada) or Maid of the Mist (in the USA) boat.
- Journey Behind the Falls: Walk through tunnels that lead behind Horseshoe Falls, providing a rare and exhilarating perspective of water thundering down right before your eyes.
- Expert Commentary: Many tours include a guide who provides fascinating insights into the history and geology of Niagara Falls, enhancing your overall experience.
What to Expect on the Niagara Falls Tour
Boat Ride: Feel the Power of Niagara Falls
The boat ride is one of the most exciting parts of the Niagara Falls tour, allowing you to get as close as possible to the base of the falls. Depending on which side of the border you’re on, you’ll be boarding either the Hornblower (in Canada) or the Maid of the Mist (in the USA).
Highlights of the Boat Ride
- The Hornblower/Maid of the Mist: Both boats take you on a journey past the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls before approaching the base of Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the three falls. The boat ride is a thrilling way to experience the sheer force of the water, with mist enveloping the boat as you get closer.
- Poncho Provided: You’ll be provided with a poncho to protect yourself from the spray—although you’ll still likely get a little wet, it’s all part of the fun! The mist, the roar of the falls, and the incredible view all make for an exhilarating experience.
- Unique Perspective: The boat takes you right into the heart of the falls, offering an intimate and unforgettable perspective of this natural wonder that cannot be experienced from the shore.
Journey Behind the Falls: Walk Behind the Water Curtain
After the boat ride, continue your adventure by embarking on the Journey Behind the Falls. This part of the tour provides an opportunity to explore the falls from an entirely different angle—behind the curtain of water that plunges over the edge of the falls.
What to Expect on the Journey Behind the Falls
- Tunnels Behind Horseshoe Falls: The Journey Behind the Falls consists of a network of tunnels that take you to two outdoor observation decks and several viewing portals located directly behind Horseshoe Falls. Walking through these tunnels, you’ll hear the thunderous roar of the falls growing louder as you approach.
- Observation Decks: The observation decks offer stunning views of the water cascading over the edge and the surrounding mist-covered landscape. This is a perfect spot for taking photos, although be prepared for some mist and spray!
- Viewing Portals: The viewing portals inside the tunnels provide a close-up look at the water as it rushes past just a few meters away. Standing behind the falls and watching millions of gallons of water crash down in front of you is an experience unlike any other.
Other Highlights of the Niagara Falls Tour
In addition to the boat ride and Journey Behind the Falls, many tours also include visits to other key attractions and scenic viewpoints in Niagara Falls:
- Table Rock Welcome Centre: Many tours stop at the Table Rock Welcome Centre, where you can view the falls up close from ground level and learn more about the history and geology of Niagara Falls.
- Skylon Tower: Some tours include access to the Skylon Tower, offering panoramic views of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area from an elevated observation deck.
- Niagara Whirlpool: Depending on the tour, you may also have the opportunity to see the Niagara Whirlpool, a powerful natural whirlpool located downstream of the falls.
Return to Starting Point
The tour typically ends with a return to the starting point or your hotel. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of the raw power and beauty of Niagara Falls, having experienced it from multiple unforgettable perspectives.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Niagara Falls Tour
- Book in Advance: Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North America, so booking your tour in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred date and time.
- Dress Appropriately: The boat ride and the Journey Behind the Falls will expose you to mist and spray, so dress accordingly. Wear comfortable, waterproof shoes and bring a light rain jacket if you want extra protection.
- Bring a Waterproof Bag: If you plan to bring your camera or other electronic devices, consider packing a waterproof bag to protect them from the spray.
- Keep Your Poncho: The poncho provided for the boat ride can come in handy again during the Journey Behind the Falls, so consider keeping it with you for extra coverage.
- Arrive Early: Arriving early allows you to enjoy the falls with fewer crowds and gives you a better chance of getting prime viewing spots during the tour.
- Take Your Time: The observation decks behind the falls and on the boat are the best places to take in the incredible power of the falls. Take your time to absorb the views and take photos, but remember that the mist can make it challenging to keep your camera lens dry!
How to Book Your Niagara Falls Tour
Booking your Niagara Falls Tour with Boat Ride and Journey Behind the Falls is easy and can be done through Viator, a trusted platform for guided tours and experiences. Most tours include:
- Hornblower or Maid of the Mist boat ride for a thrilling close-up view of the falls.
- Journey Behind the Falls with access to tunnels and observation decks behind Horseshoe Falls.
- Round-trip transportation from your hotel or a designated meeting point.
- Expert guide providing insights into the history, geology, and significance of Niagara Falls.
For more information and to secure your spot, visit Viator.
Conclusion
A Niagara Falls Tour with Boat Ride and Journey Behind the Falls offers an unparalleled experience of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. From the thrill of the Hornblower or Maid of the Mist boat ride to the awe-inspiring views from behind Horseshoe Falls, this tour provides a multi-faceted adventure that allows you to fully appreciate the sheer power and beauty of Niagara Falls. Whether you’re visiting Niagara Falls for the first time or returning for another look, this tour promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of this natural wonder.
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Disclaimer: This information is accurate at the time of writing. Please refer to the booking page on Viator for the latest updates before making reservations.
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