If you’re planning a trip to Niagara Falls, chances are the Maid of the Mist is high on your must-do list. The legendary boat ride is one of the most iconic experiences at the Falls, taking visitors right into the swirling mist beneath the roaring cascades. But many travelers ask the same question: Is there a Maid of the Mist on the Canadian side?
The short answer is no—there is no Maid of the Mist at Niagara Falls Canada today. However, the full story is more interesting, and the experience itself hasn’t disappeared. It has simply evolved.
Why There Is No Maid of the Mist in Canada
For decades, the Maid of the Mist operated on both sides of the border, departing from Niagara Falls, New York, and Niagara Falls, Ontario. That changed in 2013, when the Canadian government opened the boat tour contract to competitive bidding.
In 2014, the contract was awarded to Hornblower Cruises, a California-based company known for operating modern sightseeing vessels worldwide. As a result, Maid of the Mist ceased Canadian operations, becoming a U.S.-only attraction.
This is why searches like “maid of the mist niagara canada”, “niagara falls maid of mist canada”, or even “lady of the mist niagara falls canada” still show up today—many visitors remember the old name or assume it still operates cross-border.
What Replaced Maid of the Mist on the Canadian Side?
If you’re visiting from Canada, your boat tour is now operated by Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower. While the name and operator changed, the experience remains remarkably similar.
Niagara City Cruises follows nearly the same route as the Maid of the Mist—passing the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and pulling into the misty heart of the Horseshoe Falls. For many travelers, it feels like the same iconic ride they’ve always heard about.
So while there is no Maid of the Mist at Niagara Falls Canada, the boat tour itself is very much alive and thriving.
Maid of the Mist vs Niagara City Cruises: What’s the Difference?
Departure Location
- Maid of the Mist departs from Niagara Falls State Park, New York (USA)
- Niagara City Cruises departs from Niagara Falls, Ontario (Canada) near Clifton Hill
Route
Both tours follow an almost identical path, offering dramatic views of all three waterfalls.
Duration
Each ride lasts approximately 20 minutes, making it short, intense, and unforgettable.
Poncho Color
- Maid of the Mist: Blue ponchos
- Niagara City Cruises: Red ponchos
From above, that splash of color is often the easiest way to tell which boat is which.
Boats & Seating
Maid of the Mist operates all-electric, standing-only catamarans. Niagara City Cruises uses modern vessels with open decks plus limited covered seating, ideal for guests who want a break from the spray.
Accessibility
Both experiences are fully wheelchair accessible.
If you’re exploring Niagara Falls with a guided itinerary—especially one that bundles observation decks, viewpoints, and boat rides—many travelers choose curated experiences through See Sight Tours to simplify logistics and maximize time at the Falls.
Exclusive Experiences on the Canadian Side
Where Niagara City Cruises truly stands out is in its evening and specialty cruises, which are not offered by Maid of the Mist.
Voyage to the Falls Evening Cruise
This twilight cruise lets you experience the Falls as they transition from daylight to night, with illumination reflecting off the mist.
Falls Illumination Cruise
A longer, scenic ride that showcases Niagara Falls glowing in vibrant colors after dark.
Fireworks Cruise
On select summer nights, this cruise offers front-row views of Niagara Falls fireworks, making it one of the most romantic and photogenic experiences in the region.
Onboard Amenities
Canadian boats feature indoor bathrooms, snack bars, and licensed bars on evening sailings—a major upgrade over the classic daytime-only format.
Funicular Upgrade
Guests can add a glass-enclosed funicular ride descending the Niagara Gorge, offering panoramic views and faster access to the dock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you take both Maid of the Mist and Niagara City Cruises?
Yes, as long as you have valid travel documents to cross the border. Many visitors do both for the full experience.
Does the Maid of the Mist cross into Canada?
No. The Maid of the Mist remains entirely in U.S. waters, just as Niagara City Cruises stays on the Canadian side.
Which tour is better?
It depends. Maid of the Mist offers a historic, classic ride. Niagara City Cruises adds modern amenities and evening options.
Why is Maid of the Mist so famous?
Operating since 1846, it’s North America’s oldest tourist attraction and has hosted countless historical figures over the years.
Final Thoughts
So, is there a Maid of the Mist on the Canadian side? Not anymore. But what exists today is a modern, enhanced alternative that delivers the same jaw-dropping views—with added flexibility and nighttime magic.
Whether you choose the historic Maid of the Mist at Niagara Falls (USA) or the feature-rich Canadian cruise, both options take you into the mist, the roar, and the raw power of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.
For travelers who want to experience Niagara Falls seamlessly—combining boat rides, observation points, and expert storytelling—guided experiences from See Sight Tours can help you make the most of every moment on both sides of the border.
No matter where you board, one thing is certain: Niagara Falls from the water is unforgettable.
