From the Canadian side you ride Niagara City Cruises (the classic Maid of the Mist departs the U.S. side). The 20-minute voyage into the Horseshoe basin is the single best thing at the Falls — you feel the water, not just see it. It runs roughly April/May through November, weather permitting; admission is about $33 per adult (confirm current pricing and hours on the official site). You WILL get wet: the poncho helps, your shoes are on their own.
Timing the ride
Boarding queues are shortest before 11 AM and in the last sailing hour. Mid-summer midday can queue 45+ minutes. On tour we usually ride mid-morning, right after Table Rock.
What to bring
A phone lanyard or zip pocket (the spray zone is real), quick-dry layers, and a small towel in the vehicle for after. We keep bottled water and USB charging aboard for the regroup.
Accessibility
The vessels and boarding ramps are wheelchair-accessible; your chauffeur drops you at the closest legal point to the entrance so the walk is minimal.
