If you didn’t get wet, at Niagara Falls… then what did you even do! Some people might consider getting wet in the Falls waters, as an essential rite of passage! Even, the best part of their trip! This article will look at this phenomenon of getting wet, from the perspective of a boat ride at Niagara Falls.

The two most popular boat ride at Niagara Falls are The Hornblower Boat Cruise and the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour. And while you do get wet no matter what boat ride at Niagara Falls you are on- you might be surprised at the difference!

There are many attractions that allow you view Niagara Falls from different angles. The Hornblower Boat Cruise is one of the top choices to get as close to the Falls, as possible. The wetness level on this ride, is moderate on most days. Maybe a light mist and mostly, the upper half of your body!

The Whirlpool Jet Boat ride on the other hand, is little higher on the wetness scale! Let’s uncover the magic that makes them one of the most popular boat ride at Niagara Falls!

In This Blog:

• The details each of the boat ride at Niagara Falls- The Hornblower Boat Cruise and the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour
• How wet can you get on both those attractions
• What precautions do you need to take
• Seasonal impacts on each of the boat ride at Niagara Falls

Hornblower Boat Cruise

As we mentioned earlier, the Hornblower Boat ride, is one of the topmost popular attractions at Niagara Falls. For decades, people have stood in line, to get on the cruise and head as close to Falls as possible!

The Hornblower stands as the quintessential Niagara Falls experience, because it offers visitors the chance to witness the Falls, from an up-close perspective. This is something that very few visitors have experienced, in the lifetime.

Were you wondering if you get wet on this boat ride at Niagara Falls? The answer is a resounding yes. Getting wet on this boat ride, makes the experience so unforgettable! The mist, spray, and occasional splash are not just side effects of the journey—they’re integral parts of the adventure that create memories lasting a lifetime.

On the Hornblower

The Hornblower Boat Cruise takes passengers on a journey that begins gently, but builds on to an absolutely exhilarating climax. As the boat departs from the dock, passengers are treated to stunning views of the Niagara River and the surrounding landscape.

You can feel the anticipation building, as the vessel approaches the base of the Falls. The entire boat ride at Niagara Falls, lasts 30 mins. And the most intense effect in during the final 10 mins. This is where the true power of Niagara Falls, becomes very apparent. And the boat ride at Niagara Falls, has been designed in this way! The most intense experience at its glorious finish! That gives you time to acclimate to the increasing moisture levels.

This boat ride at Niagara Falls, is designed to showcase the Falls from multiple angles. Passengers enjoy viewing both the American Falls and the smaller Bridal Veil Falls before approaching the “star” of the trio—the magnificent Horseshoe Falls.

You are likely to get the misty spray all over you on this boat ride at the Falls. Particularly, when the Hornblower takes you close to the Horseshoe Falls. Mind you, this boat ride at Niagara Falls, will venture very close to the cascading water. It positions passenger directly in the path of the powerful mist.

You cannot help, but look up at the Horseshoe Falls in awe, from that vantage point! The sensation of feeling the spray on your face and on the skin exposed outside the poncho is indescribable! Cooling, thrilling or humbling…or maybe all three would be right words for the feeling you feel, stationed at the foot of Niagara Falls! The sensation is both peaceful and energizing, as the raw power of millions of gallons of water creates.

The Cooling Mist

One this boat ride at Niagara Falls, you will notice something, as you head closer to the Falls. The mist generated by the cascading water, creates a unique microclimate of it own! This will engulf in itself, both you, and the boat. It envelops all the passengers in a cool, refreshing cloud! And it is in this engulfment, that you get the most sprayed and the wettest!

The Hornblower staff will have provided you with an iconic red poncho, before you get on the boat. But you will discover that the poncho serves minimally. It does offer some of the protection, but not completely!

Factors Affecting Wetness Levels

During the peak moment of this boat ride at Niagara Falls, your wetness level will vary significantly, based on several factors…

The first one is the wind. The wind direction and speed, will play a crucial role in determining how much of the misty spray might reach you. Certain wind patterns create heavier misting conditions. The positioning of the boat within the spray zone, also matters. As the captain positions the boat in varying positions (based on the weather conditions), you might experience a mild to an intense soaking!

The Iconic Red Poncho

As we mentioned earlier- the complimentary red poncho! How effective it is in actually protecting you- is another matter!

It offers the protection, mostly– but not to the exposed face, hair, legs and arms! In harsher weather conditions where the water is coming at you on a higher wind, the exposed parts will get wet! Many passengers discover that the provided protection keeps them relatively dry during lighter misting phases. But the intensity of the misty spray, on the day you decide get on this boat ride at Niagara Falls… will determine how you experience it! Sometimes, it is so intense near to the Horseshoe Falls, that it can penetrate even the best of waterproof barriers!

Footwear and Safety Considerations

If you are intending to head to the Hornblower boat ride at Niagara Falls, what footwear you are wearing for this occasion, is highly important! The deck surfaces become very slippery from constant misting.

Closed toe boots with good grip are essential for safety and comfort throughout this boat ride at Niagara Falls. The boat’s deck design includes non-slip surfaces but the water and movement requires passengers to have a good footing. The waterproof shoes enhance the comfort level, allowing you to focus on the scenery on this boat ride at Niagara Falls, rather than worry about a fall!

The Hornblower boat ride at Niagara Falls, is an experience that is carefully orchestrated to maximize both the safety and enjoyment of the passengers. With excellent trained crew members providing guidance and reassurance throughout the journey, this thrilling but a very safe experience!

Protect Your Electronics!

Photography enthusiasts, face unique challenges during the boat ride at Niagara Falls. Protecting those expensive phones and cameras from moisture, become paramount on the Hornblower!

The mist from the Falls, can significantly damage the electronic equipment. Waterproof cases for cameras, phones or waterproof bags, becomes essential accessory for the journey!

Professional photographers often bring specialized equipment designed for wet conditions. It allows them to capture stunning pictures on the Hornblower, while still being safe! The interplay of light, mist, and water creates remarkable photographic opportunities. But proper preparation is crucial, for your equipment protection.

The Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour

Get ready for a entirely different aquatic adventure, with this boat ride at Niagara Falls!

This boat ride at Niagara Falls, cannot be anymore different than the first one. While the Hornblower Boat Cruise is a majestic encounter with the Falls, the Whirlpool Jet Tour is a thrilling adventure on super choppy waters of the Niagara River!

The Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour is a 45 min adventure ride on the Niagara Gorge.

This high energy boat ride at Niagara Falls, combines heart pounding adventure that soaks passengers with a combination of river spray and intentional splashing. And then there is the pure excitement of navigating some of the most challenging rapids in North America!

All aboard!

The Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour happens on the Niagara river. The location is somewhat downstream from the Falls. Its path is actually a naturally carved out phenomenon. The water is on a sharp curve, that creates the spectacular Niagara gorger and a series of challenging rapids! This creates the perfect playground for all Jet Boat adventures!

Getting on the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour is significantly different than getting on the Hornblower. Due to the more active nature of the adventure, this boat tour at Niagara Falls is more suited for the brave hearts out there!. There is a age limit which starts at age 4. But there are no fitness level restrictions, of course! But the high speed maneuvers and intense soaking on the boat, is definitely more appropriate for those actively seeking an adventure.

Getting Soaked Head to Toe

Did we already mention that on this boat ride at Niagara Falls, it is highly likely that you are going to get thoroughly soaked? That’s right!

There are no ‘levels‘ when it comes to getting wet on this boat ride at Niagara Falls. No ‘mild or moderate soaking’ on this boat ride at Niagara Falls. The Jet Boat guarantees the wetness through a combination of the natural Niagara Gorge waters and high-speed maneuvers. The captain (and the Whirlpool boat staff) are trained in deliberately seeking out the wildest parts of the river!

Your ride on the Whirlpool Jet Boat tour begins by you getting a safety briefing, that prepares you and all the passengers for the wild journey ahead. You will be reminded, that this boat tour at Niagara Falls, is designed around maximum thrill and excitement!

Creating the Splash

The boat used in these tours are specifically designed to maximize the creation of thrill on the ride! It is not just getting wet… it is getting wet with some serious splashes!

These boats have the ability to stop suddenly, execute sharp turns and create splashes and some very dramatic spray patterns. And as we mentioned earlier… the boat abilities are used intentionally. They know just how to position the boat on the waters, for maximum impact.

The signature move of the captains of the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours, is called the “Hamilton Turn”. It is a 360 degree spin, where the boat completes a full rotation at a very high speed. This move creates a massive spray pattern, soaking those on board from all directions!

The maneuver has become legendary among visitors and represents the pinnacle of the wet experience offered by the tour. The anticipation before the spin, the excitement during the rotation, the laughter and the cheers that follow afterward, all create an unforgettable experience that passengers treasure long after their clothes have dried!

Protecting Your Valuables

How does one protect their valuables on a ride like this! How do you protect your phone and cameras and other electronic goods- when you there will be a head to toe soaking on this boat ride at Niagara Falls?!

Let’s look at some of policies in place to ensure your protection…

The tour operators of this boat ride at Niagara Falls, do provide you with waterproof gear. At the beginning of the ride, they also offer complimentary personal lockers in which you can place everything you are not going to bring on the boat with you!

Did you know that officially speaking, this boat ride at Niagara Falls,  just allows a few things on board. You will be permitted to bring your hat, your sunglasses and a completely waterproof camera. Moreover, you need to have a wrist strap attached to the camera to ensure it doesn’t fall off on the bumpy ride! You are required to put everything else somewhere safe, but not on the boat!

It is advisable that you bring along a change of clothes for after your boat ride. There are complimentary changing rooms as well, which you can use! There are also some good quality and good size Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour towels that you can buy! In case you forgot to carry one with you.

Photography Challenges

This boat ride on Niagara Falls is not the same as the gentle cruise on the Hornblower! On it, you will experience quite a bit of boat movements when the boat is on the choppy waters of the Niagara Gorge. At one point, as you enter the Devil’s Hole Rapids you will definitely be seated knee deep in water on the boat!

And this why making traditional photography work on this boat ride at Niagara Falls… is going to be difficult and challenging!

The high-speed nature of the experience and unpredictable spray patterns make taking pictures a challenge. Waterproof camera cases are an absolute must! As you attempt taking many of the memorable shots while getting thoroughly soaked on the boat!

Seasonal Considerations

Seasons in Canada have a deep impact on not only the availability – but also, how wet you might get on each of these boat rides at Niagara Falls.

The Hornblower Boat Cruise, for example, operates only during the months of May through October. During the winter months of November through April, this boat ride at Niagara Falls, is closed!

But on a summer day, the combination of warm air and cool mist creates and incredibly refreshing experience! Many passengers describe this as invigorating and rejuvenating! The contrast between the summer heat and the cool spray adds an extra dimension to the sensory experience.

The same is true for the Whirlpool boat ride at Niagara Falls. This ride is also closed during the winter months of November and April.

The seasonal variations in the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour experience significantly impacts the intensity of the wet adventure. The most dramatic experience you will have on this boat ride at Niagara Falls, will be in the Spring and early summer months. The increased water level added by the melting ice creates a larger splash and  bigger spray effects. Later summer and early Fall/Winter season, is a much gentle experience… but don’t forget that this boat is built special! With a capacity to create its own splash- this ensures that the passengers will get thoroughly soaked, regardless of the season.

On a side note…

This article focuses entirely on the open-top boat tour at Niagara Falls. Or as it is officially called-  the Wet Freedom Boat Tour. But did you know, there is a covered version of the boat as well called the Dry Freedom jet?

Most of seating area on this boat ride at Niagara Falls, is covered. Except the front two rows! We advise that you choose this option, if getting wet is not your thing!

In Conclusion

By now you already know that the answer to “Do you get wet on the boat ride at Niagara Falls?” is a very clear yes! One can get wet getting sprayed under the mist on the Hornblower Boat Cruise. Or, getting soaked on the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour! Either ways, getting wet is a part of the fantastic experience! Some might even argue that it enhances your entire experience of the boat ride at Niagara Falls!

Here are some of the other attractions that you can check out while you are in the area! Mostly mentioning these because of the convenience factor. The all are relatively near by.

Close to the Whirlpool Jet Boat ride there are two thrilling activities for those that want the dry kind of fun! Head to the Zipline to the Falls and go flying to the Falls! Or you can partake in some challenging tasks at the Wildplay Whirlpool Adventure Course!

Here’s a link to the article with some more ideas on ‘Things to do at Niagara Falls!”

Let us know which “wet” boat ride at Niagara Falls, you are most excited to check out at your next Niagara Falls adventure!