Nothing can compare to visiting Niagara Falls- and oh, the memories it conjures from thrilling boat rides at its toe! Whenever one speaks of boat tours, two names will automatically come to mind- Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower and Maid of the Mist. So, which one do you take for your adventure?
Whether you’re venturing with your family or participating in one of the Niagara Falls Tours Canada, knowing the difference between these two most sought-after cruises can make the ideal decision for your visit. Let’s explore what makes them different and which one is best suited for your Niagara trip.
What is Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower and Maid of the Mist?
Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower and Maid of the Mist are both exciting boat rides that allow tourists to get very close to the mouths of Niagara Falls. Though both cruises promise the same sights, they differ in location, facilities, and ambiance.
Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower:
- To commence from the Canadian part of Niagara Falls.
- Famous for its bright red ponchos.
- Day tours and night cruises with views of lighted falls.
Maid of the Mist:
- Operates from the American side of Niagara Falls.
- It has its own identifying blue ponchos.
- It has been operating since 1846, thus being a classic favorite.
What Are The Main Differences Between The Two?
Location and Accessibility
Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower
- It is located in Niagara Falls, Canada, making it very convenient and flexible for tourists on Niagara Falls Tours Canada or a Niagara Tour from Toronto.
- Accessed with favorable convenience from Clifton Hill, a tourist attraction boasting both shopping and restaurants with its diverse entertainment.
- Perfectly suited to people embarking on their explorations of the new attractions of the Canadian side of the Niagaras.
Maid of the Mist
- It is operated from the American side at Niagara Falls, New York.
- Ideal for those traveling from the US or booked for hotels on the American side.
- It guarantees easy access to pages such as the Niagara Falls Observation Tower.
On Board Experience
Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower:
- The onboard experience is contemporary and includes luxuries such as extra seats and decks.
- Daytime cruises will take you by American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls into the mist created by the trumpeting Horseshoe Falls.
- The glow and glamour of the night on an Evening Illumination Cruise show you the falls in resplendent colors.
Maid of-the-Mist:
- A world-famous boat tour for the charm of days gone by. The ride begins from the base of the Niagara Gorge, which adds to the scenic dimension of it.
- While Maid of the Mist shakes you to the core, it doesn’t have an evening cruise.
Poncho Showdown: Red vs. Blue
Of course, one of the most familiar characteristics of these cruises would be the colorful ponchos that visitors are clad in.
- Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower: Notorious for its oversized red ponchos: Such that group pictures stand out for blaring colors.
- Maid of the Mist: Famous for its traditional blue ponchos, providing a trademark appearance that really stands out in pictures.
Most ponchos are made to keep you dry, although some mist is guaranteed to boost the thrill of the experience!
Views and Scenic Highlights
Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower:
Panoramic views of the three waterfalls: the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the formidable Horseshoe Falls.
The boat gets up close and personal with the base of the Horseshoe Falls, assuring full appreciation of the mist and crazy roar effect.
Maid of the Mist:
- Despite putting heavy emphasis on American Falls and Horseshoe Falls, the Maid of the Mist has its share of wonderful views.
- Concerning rider experiences, it would safely be stated that the ride from the U.S. side grants passengers an extended view of the American Falls before heading off toward the Canadian side.
Tour Options and Packages
Both cruise options are usually included in the guided tour packages for travelers booking Niagara Falls Tours Canada.
- Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower is regularly packed into Canadian tour packages, e.g., the Best Niagara Falls Tours from Toronto.
- Maid of the Mist will typically find its way into tours that work from the U.S. or cross-border tours.
- Traveling from Canada, the Niagara Tour from Toronto, with the inclusion of Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower, is typically the easiest option.
Price and Tickets
Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower
- Daytime Voyage to the Falls: $32 CAD (approx.)/Adult
- Evening Illumination Cruise: $40 CAD (approx.)/Adult
Maid of the Mist
- Standard Ride: $28 USD/Adult (approx.)
Note: The Maid of the Mist has limited evening/specialty cruises.
Both represent great value for this one-of-a-kind experience.
Best Time to Visit?
Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower
- From early April until early November (weather permitting).
- Evening Illumination Cruise is particularly favored among those interested in viewing the falls at night in the early magical hours.
Maid of the Mist
- Runs from the end of April to October, with adjustments in its schedule depending on season conditions.
It is best to book both cruises ahead of time for visitors in the peak months of summer.
Which Cruise to Choose?
Pick Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower if:
- You are Canadian or doing a Niagara Tour from Toronto.
- You want to see the falls illuminated at night.
- You favor a modern boat with extra comfort.
Pick Maid of the Mist if:
- You are doing a southern excursion from the U.S. or seeing more of New York.
- You love the nostalgia of a historic cruise experience.
- You like it plain and simple.
Travel Tips for First Timers
- Book in Advance: Both cruises are very popular, especially during summer.
- Dress Comfortably: Waterproof shoes would also be a great idea since you may get wet, even with the ponchos.
- Arrive Very Early: Lines can get long in peak season, so 30-45 minutes early should be about right.
- Bring a Waterproof Phone Case: Definitely take some of those once-in-a-lifetime misty pictures.
Conclusion: Which Cruise is the Best?
Both Hornblower Niagara City Cruises and Maid of the Mist deliver an unforgettable experience with the stunning scenery of Niagara Falls. If you or someone you are traveling with is taking part in one of the Best Niagara Falls Tours or is planning a Niagara Tour out of Toronto, the Hornblower cruise is an easy option (the Canadian alternative).
For visitors from the US side of the border, the Maid of the Mist is a great and traditional experience because of its heritage and famous blue ponchos! Either way, you go, be prepared to get wet since you’re brought up close to the incredible might of Niagara Falls!