Hornblower Cruises | Tickets & Tours

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Set sail to the base of Niagara Falls on the Hornblower Cruises

If you’re visiting Ontario in Canada, make sure to do a Hornblower Niagara Cruise! These cruises get you right to Niagara Falls - so close you can feel the mist and water in your face. Hop onto their state-of-the-art catamarans for the ride of your life.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Niagara Falls Hornblower Cruises – why you should take the tour, what to expect, tips, history, and more.

Niagara Falls Hornblower Cruises highlights

As close as it gets

The tour takes you to the base of the Horseshoe Falls, ensuring you witness the Niagara Gorge, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls from just a few feet away.

Lady on a boat in front of Niagara Falls - Hornblower Cruise

Niagara Falls, Canada Tours - Horseshoe Falls - Hornblower Cruise

Niagara falls at night with the city in the distance - Hornblower Cruise

View of the Niagara Falls in the evening - Hornblower Cruise

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What to expect on your Hornblower Cruises tour

Your Hornblower Cruises adventure begins at the Hornblower Niagara Cruises dock, located in the heart of Niagara Falls. As you glide through the Niagara Gorge, be surrounded by stunning views of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. The highlight comes as you approach the mighty Horseshoe Falls, feeling the mist and hearing the thunderous roar up close.

Each cruise features an on-board licensed bar and snacks, offering a selection of fine Niagara wines and beverages. The Sunset Cocktail Cruise and Falls Illumination Cruise also includes light snacks. The cruises take you up close to Niagara Falls, offering breathtaking views of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the mighty Horseshoe Falls. After this exhilarating experience, the tour concludes back at the dock, leaving you with memories of the breathtaking power and beauty of Niagara Falls.

Plan your visit

Timings & duration

Hornblower Niagara Cruises depart at the following times:

Voyage to the Falls Cruise: 9am to 8pm (20-minute tour)
Sunset Cocktail Cruise: 8pm (30-minute tour)
Falls Illumination Cruise: 8:30pm (30-minute tour)
Falls Fireworks Cruise: 9:30pm during the summer months (40-minute tour)

Location

Address: Niagara City Cruises Main Ticket Plaza, 5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8 | Find on Maps
Starting point: Lower Landing in the Great Gorge
End point: Lower Landing in the Great Gorge
Nearest stop: Hornblower North (96 meters)
Parking: Parking is available at the Niagara City Cruises Main Ticket Plaza, Falls Avenue, and Clifton Hill.

Here’s how your Hornblower Cruise experience would look

Tourists waiting to board a boat at Niagara Falls - Hornblower Cruise

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Visitor tips

Ponchos provided: Don't worry about getting wet—complimentary ponchos are provided to keep you dry as you approach the Falls.
Arrive early: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for ticketing and boarding.
Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be walking around the dock and on the boat, therefore, comfortable, non-slip shoes are a must.
Bring a camera: Capture the stunning views and unforgettable moments, but make sure it's waterproof or well-protected from the mist.
Check the weather: Dress appropriately for the day's weather. Layers are a good idea as it can get cooler near the Falls.
Accessibility: The tour is accessible for those with mobility challenges. Ramps and spacious decks that accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids have been put in place. Priority boarding is available and their friendly staff are always on hand to assist. Accessible restrooms are also available on board.
Protect your devices: Purchase tablet and smartphone covers at Mist Gear Retail to keep your devices dry from the mist during the cruise.
Snack bar onboard: The onboard snack bar offers refreshments, so you can relax and enjoy the views with a drink or snack in hand.
Book in advance: Especially during peak season, book your tickets at least a month in advance to secure your preferred tour time and avoid long lines.

Frequently asked questions about the Hornblower Cruises tour

Are ponchos provided, and do I really need them?

Yes, ponchos are provided to all passengers to protect against the mist from the Falls. They're definitely recommended to keep you dry and comfortable during the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Absolutely! Hornblower Cruises is a family-friendly experience. Children of all ages are welcome, and safety measures are in place to ensure a fun and secure adventure for everyone.

How long does the tour last?

The duration of the tour depends on the type you choose and factors like weather conditions and boat traffic, but typically, the experience lasts 20-30 minutes.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Hornblower Cruises is proud to offer wheelchair accessibility. Ramps are available for boarding, and the spacious decks accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids.

Is there parking available nearby?

Yes, several parking lots, including Falls Avenue and Clifton Hill, are conveniently located near the Hornblower Cruises dock.

Are there any special packages available?

Yes, Semi-Private Day & Night Sightseeing Tour of Niagara with Cruise & Dinner, which includes both the daytime boat tour and the evening cruise for a comprehensive Niagara Falls experience.

Can I reschedule or modify my booking?

No, tickets for all Hornblower Boat Cruises are non-refundable and non-transferable. Once tickets are administered, rescheduling or modifying your booking is not permitted.

What is the best way to protect my devices from the mist?

Purchasing tablet and smartphone covers at Mist Gear Retail can help keep your devices dry during the cruise.

What else can I do besides the Hornblower Cruise tour during my visit?

Apart from the Hornblower Cruise, you can explore the Niagara Falls area, visit the Niagara Falls State Park, or take a Maid of the Mist boat tour for a different perspective on the Falls.

Can I also go on the Maid of the Mist boat tour?

Yes, you can also take the Maid of the Mist boat tour, which offers a unique perspective on the Falls from a different angle. Keep in mind that the tour is on the American side; therefore, you must carry the necessary IDs and travel documents to cross over to the other side.

Does the Hornblower Cruise tour come with a guide? Is there an option to take the tour without a guide?

The Hornblower Cruise tour comes with a guide. The knowledgeable and friendly crew will guide you through the entire experience, ensuring you have an unforgettable time. You cannot go on the tour without a guide.