Niagara Falls: Boat Cruise, Journey Behind Falls, & Skylon Tour

Explore Niagara Falls with an Engaging Guided Tour

This Niagara Falls tour offers an exciting blend of iconic attractions on the Canadian side, including the Skylon Tower, Journey Behind the Falls, and Niagara Falls Boat Cruise. Priced at $170.49 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours, the tour provides a well-rounded experience of the area’s natural beauty and key sights. It caters to those who want a guided, hassle-free visit with small group intimacy, as the maximum group size is 20 travelers.

The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, along with a licensed, knowledgeable guide who ensures a smooth and informative outing. While the boat cruise is seasonal and closed from December to May, alternative stops like the Niagara Power Station or Butterfly Conservatory are available during this period. The tour’s reviews highlight the expertise of guides and the stunning views, making it a popular choice for visitors looking for a comprehensive Niagara Falls experience.

Key Points

• Includes four major attractions: Skylon Tower, Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara Falls Boat Cruise, and Whirlpool Rapids view
• Guided tour with private transportation and an experienced guide
• Approximately 4 hours long, with small group size up to 20 people
• Seasonal adjustments: Boat cruise is unavailable from December to May; alternative attractions are offered
• Rated 4.5/5 based on 30 reviews, with high praise for guide knowledge and views
• No lunch included, but guides can recommend nearby dining options

Starting Point and Logistics of the Tour

This small group tour departs from Niagara Falls area with pickup options available. Guests are transported comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a pleasant ride between stops. The group size of up to 20 maintains a personal feel, allowing for easier interaction with the guide and a more relaxed sightseeing pace.

The tour begins with a short drive to the Niagara Whirlpool Rapids, where visitors can see the powerful water currents created by an abrupt gorge turn. From there, the journey continues smoothly to the next stops, with the guide ensuring everyone stays on schedule and gets ample time at each location.

View the Niagara Whirlpool Rapids and Glen

The first stop is the Niagara Whirlpool, where the rapids form at the gorge’s abrupt turn. This spot is ideal for witnessing the force of the river as it spins in a large, powerful swirl. The scenic drive down the Niagara Glen offers commentary on the area’s geological features and history, giving context to the natural forces shaping this landscape.

At just 10 minutes, this stop is a quick but impactful introduction to the area’s natural power. It’s a free admission stop, making it accessible without additional costs, and offers excellent photo opportunities of the swirling waters.

Ascend the Skylon Tower for Panoramic Views

The Skylon Tower forms a highlight of the tour with its 30-minute stop for breathtaking panoramic views of Niagara Falls and the surrounding region. Visitors ascend to the tower’s observation deck, where they can enjoy the spectacular aerial perspective of the waterfalls, the gorge, and the nearby cityscape.

Included in the tour price, this stop offers the chance to capture photos from a height of over 775 feet, providing a different perspective from ground-level views. The elevator ride itself is quick and smooth, leading to ample time to take in the scenery and explore the observation area.

Journey Behind the Falls Experience

Next, the Journey Behind the Falls takes visitors through tunnels carved behind the waterfall. This 30-minute experience allows travelers to stand beneath and behind the roaring water, feeling the mist and thunderous sound of Niagara Falls up close.

Guests descend into tunnels that give access to balconies situated directly behind the cascades. This attraction is a highlight for many, offering a unique perspective that emphasizes the sheer power and scale of the falls. The experience is accessible and includes admission tickets as part of the tour.

The Thrill of the Hornblower Cruise

The 40-minute Hornblower Boat Cruise is the tour’s ultimate highlight, taking visitors to the base of Niagara Falls for an up-close encounter with the falling water. Travelers experience the thunderous roar and mist as the boat approaches the falls, making it a thrilling and sensory-rich experience.

However, during December to May, this cruise is not available due to seasonal conditions. Instead, the tour offers an alternative visit to the Niagara Power Station or Butterfly Conservatory. The boat cruise is often praised for its immersive nature and stunning views of the cascading water, making it a must-do attraction when available.

Seasonal Adjustments and Alternative Attractions

From December to May 5th, the Boat Cruise is closed and replaced with alternative stops like the Niagara Power Station or Butterfly Conservatory. These options provide different perspectives on Niagara Falls and its surroundings, maintaining the tour’s overall appeal during off-season months.

Guests should be aware that the Boat Cruise is season-dependent, usually operating from April to November, with icy conditions causing closures earlier in the year. The alternative stops complement the main attractions, ensuring visitors still enjoy a comprehensive experience.

Additional Inclusions and Practical Details

This tour covers all major attractions with admission tickets included for Skylon Tower, Journey Behind the Falls, and the boat cruise (when available). The private transportation and experienced guide make for a comfortable and informative visit.

Lunch is not included, but the guide can recommend nearby restaurants or cafes for a meal after the tour. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, making it accessible for many visitors.

Honest Perspectives from Reviews

The tour consistently receives high ratings, with an average of 4.7 out of 5 based on 30 reviews. Many praise the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer mentioning how the guide got everyone to each stop on time and provided valuable local insights.

Reviewers also highlight the Skylon Tower’s panoramic views and the Journey Behind the Falls as amazing experiences. The Hornblower Cruise is described as thrilling and impressive, often cited as the highlight of the trip.

Some reviews mention seasonal limitations of the boat cruise, with a few noting that certain attractions, like the boat ride, may be unavailable in winter months. The organized pace, small group size, and expert guides contribute to the tour’s positive reputation.

Final Thoughts on the Niagara Falls Tour

This guided tour offers a balanced and engaging way to see Niagara Falls’ most famous sights with valuable insights from an experienced guide. The small group format ensures a more personal experience, and the inclusion of major attractions makes it a good value at $170.49.

While the seasonal closure of the boat cruise is a consideration, the alternative stops still enrich the visit. Highly-rated guides and spectacular views make this tour suitable for visitors seeking a comprehensive, guided experience of Niagara Falls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the boat cruise available year-round?
No, the boat cruise operates from April to November. From December to May 5th, it is closed and replaced with other attractions.

How long does the tour last?
The entire tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, guests are transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with private transportation.

Are admission tickets included?
Yes, tickets for Skylon Tower, Journey Behind the Falls, and the Boat Cruise (when available) are included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes, especially if visiting the falls, as water and mist may cause some surfaces to be wet.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. Guides can recommend nearby dining options.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it is generally suitable for families, but check for physical requirements if needed.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

What if the boat cruise is canceled?
Alternatives like the Niagara Power Station or Butterfly Conservatory are offered during seasonal closures, ensuring the experience remains engaging.