Niagara Falls Boat Cruise and Journey Behind The Falls Tour!

Exploring Niagara Falls from the Canadian side becomes truly memorable with the Niagara Falls Boat Cruise and Journey Behind The Falls Tour. Priced at $125.33 per person and lasting approximately 3 hours, this guided experience combines the thrill of riding Niagara City Cruises with an awe-inspiring walk behind the iconic waterfalls. The tour is perfectly suited for those seeking an up-close encounter with the falls, along with insights into the region’s natural and historical highlights.

We appreciate how this tour offers reserved access to top attractions, including the Journey Behind the Falls and the Niagara City Cruises, saving valuable exploration time. The inclusion of a local English-speaking guide and an audio guide enriches the experience with engaging storytelling and historical context. While the tour involves walking, it is designed to be accessible for most, making it an excellent choice for visitors eager to see Niagara’s most captivating sights.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $125.33, the 3-hour tour delivers a comprehensive experience of Niagara Falls.
• Highlights: Includes a reserved Niagara City Cruises ride, Journey Behind the Falls, and a guided walking tour with photo stops.
• Exclusive Access: Pre-reserved tickets for the boat cruise and behind-the-falls exploration save waiting time.
• Guided Experience: An expert English-speaking guide provides engaging commentary along the walking route.
• Practical Details: Ponchos are provided for the boat and behind-the-falls experience, so be prepared to get wet.
• Accessibility: The tour involves walking at a moderate pace, suitable for most guests, but requires comfortable footwear.

Discover the Niagara City Cruises: Up Close to the Falls

The tour begins with a one-hour Niagara City Cruises trip aboard the Hornblower boat. This reserved ticket allows easy access onto the vessel, where you get to experience the powerful waters and mist of the falls firsthand. Unlike viewing from afar, this boat ride offers a sensation of being almost within the water’s spray, making it a highlight of the experience.

Travelers are advised to wear the included poncho, as getting wet is inevitable. The panoramic views from the boat showcase Niagara Falls from a unique perspective, with the mighty waterfalls crashing down and creating a cloud of mist. This experience is especially appreciated for its immersive nature, offering a thrill that viewing platforms simply cannot match.

Walking Tour of Niagara Falls Landmarks and Historic Sites

After the boat cruise, your guide leads a 30-minute expert-guided walking tour of notable Niagara landmarks. You will see the site of the former Honeymoon Bridge and learn about its collapse, along with stories of Queen Victoria Place, where Princess Diana once dined.

The walking segment includes photo stops at key points, allowing visitors to capture stunning shots of the falls and surroundings. The guide shares informative commentary about the region’s history, including the significance of the first major Canadian power plant completed in 1905 and Nikola Tesla’s contributions.

This segment balances education with sightseeing, providing a deeper understanding of Niagara’s history while enjoying the scenic views.

Journey Behind the Falls: An Intimate View from the Heart of Niagara

Next, is the Journey Behind the Falls, accessible via pre-reserved tickets at the Table Rock Visitor Center. Descend 125 feet into the earth to explore 130-year-old tunnels that bring you directly behind the cascading water.

This experience lasts about one hour and offers a proximity to the waterfalls that’s impossible from the viewing platforms. Visitors stand on observation decks just a few feet from the falling water, feeling the power and roar of Niagara from an intimate vantage point. The tour includes ponchos to help cope with the spray, and provides a unique perspective on the iconic falls.

The combination of the boat ride and behind-the-falls exploration makes this tour stand out for offering both above and behind views of the waterfalls.

Inside the Table Rock Welcome Centre: Souvenirs and Photos

The tour concludes at the Table Rock Welcome Centre, a hub for souvenirs, restrooms, and photo opportunities on the brink of the horseshoe falls. Guests can browse local souvenirs or simply enjoy the spectacular views from inside the centre.

This stop provides a convenient place to rest after the exploration and capture final photos of the falls, rounding out the experience with a perfect photo op.

Practicalities: Meeting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour begins at 5920 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON, just a short walk or ride from most hotels and accommodations in the area. The group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable guide.

Guests are recommended to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear, as the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces. Rain or shine, the tour runs, with ponchos provided on the boat and behind-the-falls for protection from the spray.

Parking in Niagara Falls can be limited, especially mid-day, so an Uber or taxi is often the most practical way to reach the meeting point.

Value and Cost: Are the Inclusions Worth the Price?

The $125.33 fee covers reserved tickets for the Niagara City Cruises and Journey Behind the Falls, guided walking tour, all fees and taxes, and English audio guide. The value is enhanced by the skip-the-line access and personalized guide service.

Some reviews mention that booking directly with Niagara Parks or the Niagara City Cruises might save money, as this tour includes additional fees for convenience and priority access. Still, the overall package offers a hassle-free, highly organized experience with expert guidance.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This tour combines multiple highlights—a boat cruise, behind-the-falls exploration, and walking tour—into a cohesive half-day experience. The reserved access at key sites reduces waiting time and maximizes sightseeing.

The inclusion of a local guide who shares informative and engaging commentary adds depth to the visit. The balance of active exploration and scenic viewing makes it an ideal choice for those who want a comprehensive Niagara experience without overextending their day.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour offers a close-up experience, it does involve walking on uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are necessary. The cost may seem high for some, especially if booking independently, but the reserved tickets and guided service are significant value adds.

The crowd levels can be high during peak season, and some reviews note that waiting times could be frustrating. Weather conditions might also impact the experience, but rain or shine, the tour proceeds with ponchos provided.

The Sum Up: A Well-Organized, Engaging Niagara Falls Tour

The Niagara Falls Boat Cruise and Journey Behind The Falls Tour offers a balanced blend of adventure and education. The reserved access to top attractions, combined with expert guidance, ensures a smooth and memorable visit suitable for most visitors.

While the tour is priced accordingly, the multiple highlights and personalized experience justify the cost for many. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors or those wanting a fuller understanding of Niagara’s natural wonder.

For anyone eager to see Niagara Falls from multiple perspectives, this tour provides a compact, well-organized package that captures the power, beauty, and history of this famous destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided for this tour?
The tour starts at a specified meeting point and does not include transportation. Guests should plan to arrive at 5920 Niagara River Pkwy via Uber, taxi, or personal vehicle.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Ponchos are provided on the boat and behind the falls, but it’s wise to dress for getting wet.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking at a moderate pace on uneven surfaces, so it’s suitable for most but may be challenging for some with mobility restrictions.

Are there any additional costs?
All fees and taxes are included in the listed price. Tips for guides are optional and not included.