Maid of the Mist, Niagara Falls, Canada

Maid of the Mist 2014 Update

Note* The Maid of the Mist has ceased operation as of 2013. It is now replaced by Hornblower Niagara Cruises which will provide a similar boat cruise for 2014 and onward. This article is in memory of one of Canada’s most beloved attractions. The Maid of the Mist is still running on the American side of Niagara Falls.

History Lesson:

Originally created in 1846, the Maid of the Mist was a ferry service which took passengers across the Canadian and US sides of the border. The boat quickly became obsolete with the construction of the Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge and in 1854 began operating as a tourist attraction. There was a pause between 1860-1895 due to financial woes, but since then operation has been smooth and consistent. Today four boats operate: Maid of the Mist IV, Maid of the Mist V, Maid of the Mist VI, Maid of the Mist VII. The Maid of the Mist I, Maid of the Mist II and Maid of the Mist III have all been retired.

The Miracle at Niagara:

Roger Woodward was just seven years old when a private boat he was on malfunction and he flew into the Horseshoe Falls. He miraculously survived with only a life jacket on. The crew of the Maid of the Mist II saw him and sent him a life ring, rescuing the boy from disaster. His sister was also a passenger, and she was swept by the Falls. Two bystanders risked their lives to jump over the railing and save Deanne Woodward. Both escaped the Falls alive.

The Boat Ride (Tour Details)

Once you arrive at the dock you will receive a blue poncho to protect you from all the water that’s about to be sprayed on you. Use cameras and other electrical devices with caution! We also recommend you bring something to dry your glasses, if you wear. Upon leaving the dock (located at a calm point in the Niagara River) you will pass the American and Bridal Veil Falls, en route to the majestic Horseshoe Falls. This boat ride will definitely be the experience of a lifetime and we can’t recommend it enough for your Niagara Falls tour with Queen Tour. You will spent between 20-30 minutes on the actual boat tour. Once the tour is completed you will be able to shop at the Maid of the Mist marketplace for souvenirs.

Some quotes from recent Maid of the Mist passengers:

The Maid of the Mist takes you by all 3 Falls.  You will definitely get wet from the mist of the falls as you go by.  The coolest part is when the boat goes up to Horseshoe Falls and has the engines going full force, but the boat is floating totally still due to the force of the water coming off the Falls.  

 

You will get wet but a must see experience of Niagara. You get to keep the disposable poncho but you will get wet. Take a cheap water proof camera to get that “must have” picture of your soaking wet family with the fabulous backdrop of the roaring falls.

 

Tip: Make sure you are towards the front of the line so you can be on the second floor. You will get a better view. Also you will be closer to the falls if you get on the right side of the boat when you board.

 

I don’t know what could be said about the Maid of the Mist that has not already been said by others. The view of the falls up close and personal from the boat is absolutely priceless.

 

What to say now, SPECTACULAR, Brilliant, marvelous, I stood on the stern and the mist of these grand and mighty falls poured on my face, the roar the sheer power of it, made me feel so small and you realize the beauty of it all, that mother natures still in control.

 

This was my fifth visit to Niagara Falls but the first time I’ve done this attraction. It is a thrilling experience and well worth the money. Just be prepared to get wet. Wear water shoes or sandals, or bring a change of shoes and socks, because although they give you that funky blue poncho, your feet will still get wet. Will definitely do this again sometime.