Niagara Falls Whirlpool Wet Jet Ride
The Niagara Falls Whirlpool Wet Jet Ride takes passengers ages 6 and up into the Gorge to see its beauty and experience the rapids created by the Falls. The 1,500-horsepower boats tackle the Class 5 whitewater rapids in Devils Hole, taking you on a 360-degree spin through Hamilton Turn, while providing a guided tour of the Gorge when not engaging the rapids. Tours depart from either the Niagara Adventure Center in Lewiston, New York, or the Niagara Glen in Niagara Falls, Ontario. During the shoulder seasons, which run from April until early June and again from September until October, Canadian tours depart from Niagara-on-the-Lake. The Wet Jet tour operates in an open jet boat, so guests get drenched in spite of the included poncho, wet jumpers and wet suit booties. Tours are offered from April until October and run one hour from the Canadian side and 45 minutes from the American side.
Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours
whirlpooljet.com
Niagara Falls Tour Frequently Asked Question
How long is the trip from Toronto to Niagara Falls?
The driving time from Toronto to Niagara Falls is about 1.5 hours. The distance from Toronto to Niagara Falls is about 130 km .
Do you pick up from all Toronto Locations?
Yes. We pick-up from all hotels, Airbnbs, and residential addresses.
What time will you pick me up?
It all depends on your location. The exact time will be in your email confirmation, but you can use this as a guideline:
- Downtown Toronto: 8:10 AM to 8:45 AM
- Toronto: 8:00 AM to 8:15 AM
- Mississauga and Airport Area: 7:35 AM to 7:55 AM
- Brampton and Vaughan: 7:25 AM to 7:45 AM
- Scarborough: 7:25 AM to 7:45 AM
We will send a courtesy vehicle to pick you up and transfer you to our tour bus located in downtown Toronto. If you are in a residential area where buses are not allowed, we may send an Uber. Watch you email/text messages for updates.
What time does the tour return?
The tour typically returns at 6:30 Pm. However we can not guarantee the return time because of weather and traffic.
Can you drop me off at a different location?
Yes. Often people want to be dropped off in downtown Toronto to catch dinner, a sporting event, or see the sites. Just mention this to the tour guide?
Are tips included?
Tips are not included in the price of the tour. It is not mandatory, but customary to give a small tip if you enjoyed the service.
When can I have lunch?
Is Niagara Falls open on holidays?
I have a plane to catch. Can you drop me off at the Airport?
Niagara Falls Canada: Helicopter Tour & Boat Ride
Soar above the falls during an exhilarating 12-minute helicopter ride, flying directly over the cascades and whirlpool rapids for the ultimate birds-eye perspective. Then voyage into the heart of the spray on a Hornblower Niagara Falls boat tour. During winter the boat excursion is swapped for the Butterfly Conservatory and multisensory Niagaras Fury film.
Head skywards again, this time for lunch with a view at the Skylon Tower Summit Suite Buffet. Your final stop is Journey Behind the Falls for a closer look at the mighty Horseshoe cataract. This 5-6 hour small group tour has a maximum of 7 participants.
From Niagara-on-the-Lake
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A Day Trip To Niagara Falls From Toronto
Niagara Falls is one of those bucket list worthy places on every travelers list. And with good reason! The massive waterfalls straddle the U.S.-Canadian border and can be visited from both countries. And the best part is that you can do a day trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto.
To be honest, I wasnt that excited about seeing Niagara Falls. But now that Ive seen them, Id definitely recommend a visit if youre in New York or Ontario. But with a few caveats! Our day trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto was perfect and included stops at the impressive whirlpool, the adorable Niagara-on-the-Lake town, and a winery. Heres what you need to know to make the best of your day trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto.
Niagara River Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour
Pull on your life jacket and strap in for a wet and wild ride on this adrenaline-fueled Niagara jet boat tour. Prepare for a soaking as you bounce along the dramatic Niagara River and plunge through the rapids in a state-of-the-art open-topped speedboat. If you prefer to stay dry, a covered boat is available too.
The icing on the cake is the thrill of navigating Devils Hole, where churning waters battle for supremacy in the rocky gorge. This Niagara Falls boat tour includes a short safety briefing, with the ride itself lasting 45 minutes. A change of clothes is recommended.
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Things To Do In Nature Niagara Falls Ny
On the New York side, exploring the Falls is all about nature. As part of Niagara Falls State Park, one of the oldest state parks in the US, families can explore the history of the region while discovering the waterfalls themselves.
The Niagara Gorge Discovery Center teaches kids about the geology of the region, including fossils and formations. Kids will love the rock climbing wall and hands-on displays. Marked hikes throughout the park take families past ruins of the first hydroelectric station, as well as the opportunity to scramble over boulders.
The Adventure Theater, located in the state park visitor center, screens showings of Niagara: Legends of Adventure, showcasing the history of daredevils who have braved the Falls. The Niagara Aquarium boasts more than 1500 aquatic animals!
Niagara Falls: Guided Tour Or Do It Yourself
Im a big fan of guided tours when taking day trips after learning my lesson on a day trip to Champagne from Paris. So while you can easily rent a car to drive to Niagara Falls, I recommend a guided tour. It allows you to enjoy the ride without stress and most tours throw in a few other stops along the way.
Our tour included three hours at Niagara Falls, a stop at the Whirlpool, time in the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, and wine tasting all for an incredibly affordable price. Heres the exact tour we took on Viator, but there are plenty of tours for a Niagara Falls day trip from Toronto that include different excursions, food, and more.
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Is It The Niagara Falls Boat Tour Worth It
Absolutely. We’re not normally ones for over-touristy stuff, but this cruise is definitely worth your time and money. Being able to see the falls from river level is cool enough, but to actually go into the mist, hear the roar and feel the force of the water crashing around you is just spectacular.
If you only go to Niagara Falls for one day, and only do one thing, do this.
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Comparing Maid Of The Mist Niagara Cruise Vs Hornblower Cruise
- Both boats take the exact same route to the falls so no matter which one you pick you will have a great view of Niagara Falls.
- Both boats provide ponchos for the trip to keep you slightly drier
- Both boats are wheelchair accessible.
- Both boats charge similar prices
- The Hornblower is newer and it is noticeable, so if you prefer a nicely appointed boat this is for you.
- The Horblower is bigger and leaves less frequently.
- The Maid of the Mist is older but if you love history you will love this boat tour.
- The Hornblower offers timed entry tickets so you know which boat you will be on, this is great if you will be in Niagara for the day and know you will make your time.
- The Maid of the Mist sells tickets ahead of time but is first come first served when you get there. If you are arriving to Niagara and not sure when this allows more flexibility.
- Hornblower tickets are sold in Canadian dollars and Maid of the Mist are in American dollars but even accounting for exchange rates the prices are very similar.
- Both Niagara Falls cruises can be booked in a package with other attractions.
Please remember that these prices are in Canadian Dollars and they may seem higher but you arent comparing straight across.
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Niagara Falls Night Cruise
Only Hornblower offers cruises to see Niagara Falls at night. You can do the Niagara Falls Fireworks Cruise on evenings when there are fireworks scheduled. The evening cruises run from the beginning of May until the end of October. This is one of the most romantic things to do in Niagara Falls.
These cruises last 40 minutes and do sell out quickly, so you will want to get your tickets in advance. The evening cruise is more expensive than the daytime ones because it is longer. In 2019, Tickets for adults cost $42.95 CAD and $27.95 CAD for kids 12 and under. These tickets also include the Niagara Funicular . . I should also mention that these extended night cruises do include a cash bar, light snacks for purchase, and music.
The Horseshoe Falls is where the boat ride really gets intense!
Hornblower does also offer 20-minute long Voyage to the Falls Evening cruises as well for the same price as the daytime cruise. During this cruise, you would also get to see the falls illuminated.
All the evening cruises are described as a light mist experience rather than the full mist experience of the daytime cruises. I am guessing with the light mist experience you would still get wet. The boats do have indoor areas if you want to make sure you stay completely dry. Im not sure you would get the full experience if you stay inside the whole cruise though.
You will feel a little mist from the American and Bridal Veil Falls.
How To Get To Niagara Falls Parking At Niagara Falls
If youre not sure how to visit Niagara Falls, the easiest way is by car. Most people who travel to Niagara Falls in Canada arrive from Toronto, which is about 90 miles away. That said, the cities of Hamilton and Mississauga are closer, so those are two other options.
If youre wondering how far Niagara Falls is from New York City, its about a 7-hour drive. Those who visit the American side usually come from Buffalo, which is just 20 miles away from the falls. That isnt to say that you cant take advantage of a trip to NYC by also visiting Niagara Falls. Just be aware that its a very long drive and it may be better to book a tour. Well list some options below.
You can get a rental car for your trip or go in your own vehicle, but youll run into the problem thatparking isnt free at Niagara Falls. On both the American and Canadian sides, you must pay for parking, unless your accommodation has a free parking lot. Considering this, it might be easier to book a tour that includes transportation or hotel pick-up and drop-off.
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Best Culinary Experiences In Niagara Falls
When you travel to Niagara Falls, you must immerse yourself in the culinary experiences that are unique to the region. When you think about Niagara Falls, a couple of local specialties might come to mind: ice wine and maple syrup. I highly recommend that you taste maple products and visit local Niagara wineries. Niagara Falls also has an amazing local food scene, especially at one restaurant that fully embraces the concept of farm to table.
Second Time Was Evens Better
This was the second time I went on this ride and it was totally worth it again. Super fun and exciting riding through the rapids getting completely soaked. Our tour leader Jay was also awesome and added some excitement to the trip.
Chad, Thank you so much for your amazing review! We love hearing from guest in the past and so glad it was even better a second time!
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Although I don’t own a motorcycle, this is the only way to describe this trip. You can hear the engines fire up when the captain leans back on the switch. Reminds me of the take off on a airplane just before taking. You respect the power these engines have. You start out slow and cruise a bit while the guide tells you about the area. Then slowly you’ll feel the thrust of the engines. Minutes later you’ll see and feel the rapids ahead and then he gives it the power and you’re off baby. Bang Bang over the waves.. Water over everyone. Remember to keep your mouth closed otherwise you’ll have a mouthful of Niagara and you’ll also have trouble getting your breath. I am famous for this. Your yelling so it’s hard not to have your yapper open. It is worth the money and just not long enough. Bring your bathing suit and strap on sandals and a change of clothing. You’ll get very wet. They have lockers there. Book in advance.
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Safe Sailing With Niagara City Cruises
Get ready for an up-close and personal experience with the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and the breathtaking Niagara Gorge. Feel safe with health and safety screenings, mobile entry, physical distancing, reduced guest capacity and increased sanitizing. For the safety of our guests and staff, passengers are required to wear face masks covering the nose and mouth.
Niagara Falls Ny Vs Canada
Hornblower Niagara Cruises Boat Tour | Photo by Katie Bodell
No matter which side of the border you are on, boat tours are offered that take families to all three falls . This experience is one that cant be missed! There is nothing like feeling the mist of the water encompass everything all around you. It is a family-travel memory I will honestly never forget.
Hornblower Niagara Cruises operates the Canadian side while Maid of the Mist has been offering tours on the American side since the 1800s. Both tours include ponchos .
Tours are both 20 minutes long. And both tours operate seasonally , although Hornblower typically extends its season through the end of November. Prices are similar, and both operators offer similar package deals.
Winner Niagara Falls Ontario, Canada. Hornblower offers the only night time tours of the Falls.
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Hotels In Niagara Falls Ny
We also stayed at a Niagara Falls hotel in New York. which was nice because we arrived at night. We spent a restful night in our hotel room and got up early in the morning so we could go straight to the attractions.
Our room was at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, and although the views werent as impressive as the Canadian hotel, if you ask for a room on a high floor, youll get beautiful views of the falls. You can even see the Niagara Falls fireworks without leaving your room.
Heres more information about the Seneca resort and other top hotels on Niagara Falls American side:
Faqs About Visiting Niagara Falls
While our guide to Niagara Falls includes everything you need to know, check these frequently asked questions if you have any other concerns.
Where can I view Niagara Falls at night?
If you want to enjoy Niagara Falls at night, two of the best places are Queen Victoria Park in Canada and Goat Island in the United States.
Now you have all the information you need to start planning your trip to Niagara Falls. If you have any questions, you can leave a comment below, and I will try to help you as quickly as possible. Remember that we also have a specific guide to Niagara Falls in Canada and another about Niagara Falls, New York.
I know that youll enjoy your visit to Niagara Falls just dont forget your raincoat! Safe travels!
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Niagara Falls Boat Tour
Let’s be honest, one of the biggest things to do when you visit Niagara Falls is enjoy a Niagara Falls boat tour. It’s the first thing I booked when we planned our trip- even before I booked our hotel.
And it didn’t disappoint. Here’s everything we learnt about Niagara falls boat rides- and how to pick the best one for you!
JUMP AHEAD TO…
Which Side Of Niagara Falls Is Better American Side Vs Canadian Side
If youre short on time and can only visit one side of the falls, dont worry. There are plenty of things to do in Niagara Falls on both the American and Canadian sides.
There is a huge push for tourism in Niagara Falls, so below Im including the highlights for each side. If you can, I recommend booking this full-day tour, which goes to the most popular attractions in Niagara Falls, New York, and Ontario. Just remember to bring your passport and/or visa to cross the border.
If youre interested in sightseeing, a Niagara Falls tour of the Canadian side is your best choice. Not only are most of the tourist attractions there, but the views of the falls are better.
Niagara Falls Canadian side
There are many unique things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada, which is why many tourists say it resembles an amusement park. The mix of entertainment venues and leisurely outdoor spaces is a hit with visitors.
In Ontario, you can stand directly in front of the falls, and there are several hotels and casinos nearby. While these large accommodations are a bit imposing on the natural environment, the waterfalls provide a great backdrop while youre staying overnight.
For those who want more outdoor recreation and nature activities, a trip to Niagara Falls, USA wont disappoint.
Niagara Falls U.S. side
While the views of the falls arent as spectacular on the American side, there are still plenty of things to do around this beautiful natural environment.
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