Our Niagara Falls Whirlpool Jet Boat Experience (2025)

Our Niagara Falls Whirlpool Jet Boat experience was fun, exhilarating adventure but did require some planning; here is our full review of this fun activity in Niagara Falls.

On our second trip to Niagara Falls, we decided we wanted to do something a bit more exciting and thrilling than the usual Maid of the Mist. After some googling, we came across the Whirlpool Jet Boat; a high-speed jet boat that whisks you through the rapids of the Niagara River. 

Niagara Falls Whirlpool jet boat – The Experience

The whirlpool boat – Looking to get soaked? The most popular ride experience is the original Niagara Falls Whirlpool Jet Boat, with an open-top thrill ride that leaves you drenched.

Stay dry – For a similar thrill to the whirlpool jet boat but a dry option, this boat whips you through the Niagara River Whirlpool with a covering above the boat. This is ideal for colder months or those wanting to bring a camera!

The Jet Boat Niagara Falls ticket price

Both Niagara Falls Whirlpool Jet Boat options are the same price as each other but the currency changes depending on departure location. This ride costs $73.95 CAD when departing from the Canadian side or $63.95 USD when departing from the US side. 

Whirlpool Jet Boat tours Departure locations

You can catch the Niagara Falls Whirlpool Jet Boat from three different locations:

• Niagara Falls (Canada) – 55 River Frontage Road, Queenston, Ontario (around 20 minutes from downtown Niagara Falls).
• Lewiston (US) – 115 S Water Street, Lewiston, New York
• Niagara-On-The-Lake – 61 Melville Street, Niagara on the Lake, Ontario. (Across the street from the town Marina on Melville Street).

Tip: You can use the border crossing at Niagara Falls to enjoy attractions on both sides.

What to bring to the Niagara Falls Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours

• Payment card – Whether it is a credit or debit card, you will need to bring the same card with you that you made your reservations. There is a retail and digital media shop where you can buy photos and videos from that accept card and cash. 
• Change of clothes – If you are planning on heading anywhere but your hotel room, bring a change of clothes for the Whirlpool Jet Boat. If you are taking the covered option, you won’t need a change of clothes. 
• Camera – If you are taking the covered option, bring along a camera for some great photos of your trip. If you are taking the version that will get you soaked, you could bring along a GoPro or waterproof camera but avoid anything other than this; we can’t stress how wet you will get. In fact, the company only allows cameras on the wet boats if they are on a wrist strap.
• Warm clothes – If you are visiting in the colder season, we advise you bring layers. It can get chilly on both boats, especially after getting splashed in the Whirlpool Jet Boat.
• Shoes – Again for the wet option, bring some spare shoes to wear on the trip. Alternatively, you can buy shoes from the tour company before your trip.

Things to know before you take part in the Niagara Falls whirlpool jet boat

• Arrive: Make sure to arrive at least 45 minutes before your trip. 15 minutes before your departure, there is a mandatory safety orientation to brief you about the trip. 
• Bring the card you made your reservation with.
• Tours take around 45 minutes and follow the same route from both departing locations. 
• The boat travels upriver (south) into the Niagara Gorge and through the famous whirlpool and then heads back through Devil’s Hole Rapids. 
• Each Freedom Jet (covered) holds 62 passengers whilst the Wet Jet boats can cover either 48 or 54 passengers. Capacities have been adjusted accordingly and in compliance with boat insurance terms and conditions.
• Restrictions: For the Wet trip, you must be at least 44 inches tall whilst you must be at least 40 inches tall for the Jet Dome trip. Guests under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 
• Warning: The jet boat can be a rough ride but there is no age limit. However, the company recommend participants to be in good health, free of heart, neck or back issues and not pregnant. 
• Lockers: All locations offer complimentary lockers for you to store your belongings during the trip. On the wet boat, you can only bring hats, sunglasses/eyeglasses and a waterproof camera with wrist strap.
• Waiver: Before your trip, you will need to sign a waver and these can be done on arrival or printed ahead of your visit.
• Photos and videos: Around 10 minutes after your trip has ended, you will be able to see photos and videos from your experience in the store. You can buy reasonably priced packages here so it is worth checking out. 

What to wear on Niagara Falls Boat Tour?

On a Niagara Falls boat tour (like Maid of the Mist in the U.S. or Hornblower in Canada), you’ll be very close to the base of the falls, where the mist and spray can drench you. Here’s what you should wear and bring:

• Waterproof poncho – The tour operators provide ponchos, but they are thin plastic. They’ll keep most of your upper body dry, but your legs and shoes may still get wet.
• Quick-dry clothes – Lightweight, breathable fabrics (like athletic wear or synthetics) are best. Avoid heavy cotton or jeans, as they’ll stay wet and uncomfortable.
• Water-resistant shoes – Wear sandals with straps, waterproof sneakers, or water shoes. Flip-flops can slip, and regular sneakers will take a while to dry.
• Layers (weather dependent) – In cooler months, wear a light waterproof jacket under the poncho. In summer, shorts and a T-shirt are usually fine.
• Secure hat or cap – Optional, but good for sun protection. Make sure it won’t blow away.
• Minimal accessories – Avoid dangling jewelry or items that could fall into the water.
• Waterproof bag or pouch – If you want to protect your phone, wallet, or camera, bring a dry bag or a zip-lock pouch.

Most importantly: expect to get wet no matter what you wear. Dress for comfort and quick drying, rather than trying to stay 100% dry.

Niagara Falls Whirlpool Jet Boat F.A.Q

Is the Niagara Falls boat worth it?
Yes, the boat tours are absolutely worth it. They take you right up close to the base of the Horseshoe Falls, where you can truly feel the power of the water. It’s an unforgettable experience, especially for first-time visitors; it really is one of the best outdoor activities in Canada!

How much is a jet boat ride in Niagara Falls?
Jet boat rides usually cost around $70–$90 USD per adult and $50–$70 USD per child, depending on the operator, time of year, and whether you choose a wet or dry ride.

What causes the Niagara Whirlpool?
The Niagara Whirlpool is formed where the Niagara River makes a sharp right-angle turn. The fast-moving water from the rapids creates a swirling vortex, which is one of the strongest natural whirlpools in North America.

How long is the Niagara Whirlpool Jet Boat ride?
The ride lasts about 45 minutes to 1 hour, including thrilling high-speed spins and splashes along the river rapids.

What age is jet boat Niagara Falls for?
Children must typically be at least 6 years old and 44 inches (112 cm) tall for safety reasons. Age and height restrictions may vary slightly by operator.

Which boat tour is best at Niagara Falls?
If you want the classic experience of going close to the falls, the Maid of the Mist (U.S. side) and Hornblower Niagara Cruises (Canada side) are the best choices. For adventure seekers, the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours offer a more thrilling ride through the rapids.

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