Is There a Maid of the Mist on the Canadian Side?

If you’re reading this, you’re most probably looking for boat tours that can provide you with proximate experience with the three iconic falls in Niagara Falls. Musing over taking the Maid of the Mist boat tour on the Canadian side? Wondering if there is a Maid of the Mist on the Canadian side? Unfortunately, you won’t find a Maid of the Mist on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls because of two reasons: firstly, the Canadian side has Hornblower Niagara City Cruise, an equivalent of Maid of the Mist; and secondly, Maid of the Mist happens to be on the US side only since 2014.

What Happened to the Maid of the Mist in Canada?

For decades, the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour operated on both the U.S. and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls, offering visitors an unforgettable, up-close experience with the thundering waterfalls. However, that changed in 2013, when the Canadian government opened the boat tour operation to new bids. This marked a turning point in the history of Niagara Falls tourism. This transition marked the end of the Maid of Mist Canada era, a time when many visitors unknowingly referred to Niagara City Cruises as the Canada Maid of Mist.

In 2014, the contract to operate boat tours from the Canadian side was awarded to Hornblower Cruises, a California-based company known for its modern fleet and innovative tour experiences. As a result, Maid of the Mist ceased operations in Canada and became an exclusively U.S.-side attraction, departing from within Niagara Falls State Park in New York.

Today, if you're visiting the Canadian side of the Falls, your boat tour experience is operated by Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower. Although the name and operator have changed, the route remains largely the same—taking passengers past the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and into the heart of the Horseshoe Falls. So while the experience may still be called the Maid in the Mist Niagara Falls Canada by some travelers, today’s Canadian boat tours go by a different name.

While some travelers still associate the experience with the name "Maid of the Mist," it's important to note that this branding now applies only to the U.S. side. On the Canadian side, Niagara City Cruises has introduced newer vessels, additional evening cruise options, and enhanced amenities, offering a comparable—if not more customizable—experience on the water.

Maid of the Mist vs. Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower): A Quick Comparison

While both boat tours offer a heart-pounding, mist-filled journey into the base of Niagara Falls, there are a few key differences to note—especially when deciding whether to start your adventure from the U.S. or Canadian side.

Starting Location:

The most obvious difference lies in where each tour begins. The Maid of the Mist departs from Niagara Falls, New York, within Niagara Falls State Park. On the other hand, Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower launches from Niagara Falls, Ontario, at the base of Clifton Hill on the Canadian side. So those searching for Maid of Mist Niagara Falls Canada will be directed to Niagara City Cruises instead.

Route:

When it comes to the experience on the water, the route is nearly identical for both. Each cruise takes passengers past the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, before pulling into the thick mist of the Horseshoe Falls, offering awe-inspiring views and a powerful rush of sound and spray.

Duration:

Both tours last approximately 20 minutes, making them a quick but thrilling way to get up close to one of the world's most famous natural wonders.

Poncho Color:

Passengers on the Maid of the Mist are outfitted in blue ponchos, while those aboard Niagara City Cruises receive bright red ponchos. It’s a fun and colorful way to distinguish the two tours from above. So if you're wondering how to tell the difference between Niagara Maid of the Mist Canada and the U.S. version from above—it’s all in the poncho color.

Boat Type:

The Maid of the Mist operates a fleet of all-electric catamarans, offering a quiet, eco-friendly ride. Niagara City Cruises, meanwhile, uses modern catamarans equipped with both open decks for panoramic views and covered areas for those who prefer to stay a little drier.

Seating Options:

If you prefer a place to sit, Niagara City Cruises offers limited covered seating in its lower decks, whereas the Maid of the Mist is a standing-only experience—designed to keep everyone on their feet and in the action.

Accessibility:

Both tours are fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring that guests with mobility needs can comfortably enjoy the experience.

Exclusive Features of Niagara City Cruises

While both sides of Niagara Falls offer thrilling boat tours, Niagara City Cruises on the Canadian side stands out with a range of exclusive experiences and onboard upgrades that go beyond the classic daytime ride.

Evening Tours with a View

One of the biggest highlights of Niagara City Cruises is the “Voyage to the Falls Evening Cruise.” This magical tour departs at dusk and offers a unique opportunity to see the waterfalls illuminated in vibrant colors as night falls.

Falls Illumination

For those seeking a slower, more scenic ride, the Falls Illumination Cruise offers a 40-minute journey past the glowing cascades. As the lights shimmer across the water and mist rises around you, the experience becomes almost surreal.

Fireworks Cruise

On select summer nights, Niagara City Cruises takes things up a notch with the Falls Fireworks Cruise. This extended evening tour includes front-row views of Niagara Falls’ legendary nightly fireworks display—a favorite among couples, families, and photographers.

Modern Onboard Amenities

Unlike the no-frills experience of traditional boat tours, Niagara City Cruises boats come equipped with indoor bathrooms, snack stands, and even a licensed bar on evening sailings.

Funicular Ride Upgrade

Niagara City Cruises offers guests the option to upgrade to a funicular ride—a scenic, glass-enclosed incline railway that glides down the Niagara Gorge. Not only does it save time compared to traditional elevators, but it also delivers breathtaking panoramic views of the Falls and city skyline as you descend.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you take both Maid of the Mist and Niagara City Cruises?

Yes, you can take both tours—but you’ll need valid travel documents to cross the border. The Maid of the Mist departs from Niagara Falls, New York (USA), while Niagara City Cruises departs from Niagara Falls, Ontario (Canada). Many visitors who want the full experience choose to cross the Rainbow Bridge to try both.

Does the Maid of the Mist cross into Canadian waters?

No, the Maid of the Mist stays entirely on the U.S. side of the Niagara River. It approaches the base of the Horseshoe Falls (which straddle both countries), but the boat itself does not enter Canadian territory. Similarly, Niagara City Cruises remains on the Canadian side of the river.

Are the experiences different between the two boat tours?

Both tours follow a similar route to the base of the American, Bridal Veil, and Horseshoe Falls. However, Niagara City Cruises offers exclusive evening cruises, such as the Falls Illumination and Fireworks Cruises, as well as onboard amenities like bathrooms, seating, and a licensed bar—features not available on Maid of the Mist.

Which tour is better: Maid of the Mist or Niagara City Cruises?

It depends on your location and what kind of experience you're looking for. Maid of the Mist offers a classic, historic ride from the U.S. side. Niagara City Cruises, however, provides more modern amenities and unique evening cruise options from the Canadian side. Both tours are excellent ways to get close to the Falls.

Why is the Maid of the Mist at Niagara Falls so famous?

The Maid of the Mist is North America’s oldest tourist attraction, dating back to 1846. Over the years, it has become a cultural icon, hosting everyone from Princess Diana to Marilyn Monroe. Its legacy, dramatic approach to the Falls, and all-electric boats make it a must-do for many visiting the U.S. side.

When did Maid of the Mist stop running in Canada?

The Maid of the Mist ceased Canadian operations in 2013. In 2014, the Canadian government awarded the boat tour contract to Hornblower Cruises, which now operates under the name Niagara City Cruises.

What is your advice to best experience Niagara Falls?

To truly capture the essence of Niagara Falls, try to explore both sides of the border if possible. Combine a daytime cruise with an evening illumination or fireworks tour, take in views from observation decks, and leave time to walk along the river trails. No matter the season, Niagara rewards those who linger.

Final Thoughts

Whether you board from the U.S. or Canadian side, one thing is guaranteed—a boat tour at Niagara Falls is a sensory experience like no other. The thundering roar, the swirling mist, and the sheer force of the falls create a moment that stays with you long after you step back on dry land.

Both the Maid of the Mist and Niagara City Cruises deliver breathtaking, up-close views of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. The routes are nearly identical, and both get you so close to the water that you’ll feel nature’s raw power in every direction.

Your choice ultimately depends on your itinerary, where you’re staying, and the kind of experience you’re looking for. If you’re on the U.S. side and want a classic daytime adventure with a deep historical legacy, Maid of the Mist is a time-honored favorite. If you’re on the Canadian side and drawn to modern comforts, evening cruises, or fireworks under the stars, Niagara City Cruises has the edge.

But whichever side of the border you begin your journey from, rest assured: you’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that captures the full magic of Niagara Falls.