Maid of the Mist, Boat tour at Niagara Falls, United States
Maid of the Mist is a boat tour company in Niagara Falls, United States, that carries passengers from the American river shore to the base of the waterfalls. The tour approaches the Canadian side, traveling as close as possible to Horseshoe Falls where the roar is loudest.
The first voyage took place in 1846 with a steam-powered vessel that initially connected both banks of the Niagara River. After a pause in the late 19th century, operations resumed in 1900 with a focus on tourists instead of ferry crossings.
The brightly colored rain ponchos mark different boarding locations along the river and help visitors find their way to the correct dock. Photographers and families gather on the lower observation deck, trying to capture images of the falling water despite the dense spray.
The tour operates only from spring through fall because the Niagara River carries too much ice in winter. Rain gear is issued on board and should be worn, as getting soaked is unavoidable.
The electric-powered vessels entered service in 2020, replacing older diesel boats. The switch to all-electric propulsion reduced noise considerably and made the thunder of the falls even more audible.
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