In 1848, the Maid of the Mist boats started ferrying tourists to a better sight of the Niagara Falls on the Niagara River. Niagara Falls Boat Tickets Canada provides an up-close view of the Falls by taking passengers from either side of the river — USA or Canada. Maid of the Mist operated similar tours from both countries until 2013.
In 2013, the Canadian government gave the contract for the Niagara Falls boat tour tickets to Hornblower, a California-based company. The firm introduced many improvements to the trip and declared that they would commence rides in 2014.
The two tours are somewhat different: let’s look at what each offers so you can decide which one to go for.
What are the key features of the Hornblower Cruise Tickets?
Hornblower Cruise tickets are an iconic boat tour in Niagara Falls, Canada. Here are some of the highlights of this Niagara Falls Boat Tickets Canada:
Proximity to the Falls
You get to experience the powerful mist and roar of the falls up close.
This Niagara Falls Boat Tickets Canada takes you very close to the Bridal Veil Falls, American Falls, and the iconic Horseshoe Falls. You feel the overpowering mist and noise that these falls create.
Catamaran Boats
These Niagara Falls Cruise Tickets use modern high-tech catamarans to provide a safe and comfortable voyage for its passengers. The boat tickets provide upper and lower decks so you can choose where you would like to be seated, ensuring an optimal viewing experience.
Day and Evening Cruise Tickets
The Hornblower provides both day and night cruise tickets. The falls come to light when you buy the evening cruise tickets, illuminating them with various colours that create a magical ambiance.
Access and Convenience
Easily accessible if staying in Canada, the Hornblower Niagara Falls Cruise Tickets are available on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. The boarding area is close to many major hotels and attractions.
Niagara Falls Boat Tickets Canada
You can buy Hornblower Boat Tickets online or on-site without any difficulty. There are different packages available such as daytime, evening, and combo passes with other attractions.
What are the key features of the Maid of the Mist?
The Maid of the Mist is one of the oldest as well as most iconic Niagara Falls Cruise Tickets providers from the American side. Here are some of its features:
Historical Significance
A prominent and historic component of Niagara Falls tourism, the Maid of the Mist has been in operation since 1848. When you take this Niagara Falls Boat Tour Canada Tickets, you are immersing yourself in a part of history.
Proximity to the Falls
It is similar to Hornblower, taking you near all three falls. This gives an awe-inspiring encounter with the mist and the deafening roars that emanate from the falling waters.
Boat Design
Maid of the Mist has conventional double-deckers. The view differs slightly from Hornblower’s contemporary catamarans.
Access and Convenience
The Maid of the Mist is located on the American side of Niagara Falls. If you find yourself staying or visiting from this end, this Niagara Falls Boat Tour Canada Tickets might just be more convenient.
Niagara Falls Cruise Tickets
There are two ways to purchase tickets for the Maid of the Mist: online or in person at the site. Additionally, they have some combo packages available with other local attractions.
Which Niagara Falls Cruise Tickets offers better views of the Falls?
Both the Hornblower Cruise and Maid of the Mist offer breathtaking views of Niagara Falls, but they do differ in some aspects:
- Hornblower Cruise Tickets: The Hornblower boat tickets provide open-air decks that offer panoramic views of the falls, particularly stunning are the evening cruise tickets when the falls are illuminated.
- Maid of the Mist: The Maid of the Mist boat tickets provide excellent views as well but they can feel more traditional and historic which could be an interesting experience. You can see the falls from various perspectives due to the double-decker boats, and this ensures that you get a great view.
In the end, both tours offer a similar quality in viewing the falls so regardless of which one you take, witnessing the grandeur of Niagara Falls will leave you awe-inspired.
How do Niagara Falls Boat Tickets Canada Prices Compare?
Price is indeed a critical consideration to many travelers. Let us then take a look at the cost difference between the two tours.
- Hornblower Niagara Tickets: The prices of the Hornblower Niagara Tickets are dependent on various factors such as the nature of the tour (daytime or evening) and seasonal influences. Typically, adult tickets fall within the price bracket of CAD $30-40. Child discounts are also available. Moreover, opting for combined packages with other attractions can lead to cost savings.
- Maid of the Mist Tickets: The prices for Maid of the Mist tickets are quite reasonable and usually in the range of USD $25-$30 for adults. Just like with the Hornblower, there are child discounts and combination packages available.
It’s worth checking both websites for the most up-to-date pricing and any special offers.
How do I decide which Niagara Falls cruise tickets to choose?
Deciding between the Hornblower Cruise tickets and the Maid of the Mist ultimately depends on your preferences and itinerary.
Choose the Hornblower Cruise Tickets if:
- You are on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.
- You prefer modern boats with spacious seating.
- You want to experience the falls at night with the illumination.
- You are looking for easy access and a convenient location.
Choose the Maid of the Mist if:
- You are staying on the American side of Niagara Falls.
- You appreciate historical experiences and traditional tours.
- You want a classic tour feel.
- You find the convenience of the American side more suitable for your travel plans.
Can I do both tours?
It’s possible to take both Hornblower Cruise tickets and Maid of the Mist tickets for the best Toronto Niagara Falls Tours. It would be an excellent way to view Niagara Falls from two different points if you have the time and resources. Every tour has its own uniqueness, so if you experience them both, you can grasp this natural wonder in its entirety.
The Final Verdict!
The choice ultimately boils down to your location because there is not much difference between the two cruise tickets!
If you lack the necessary travel documentation, you will automatically be required to buy the Niagara River cruise ticket available from your country. That is the Hornblower Cruise tickets on the Canadian side or the Maid of the Mist on the US side.
