Niagara Falls City Cruise Behind the Falls and Skylon Tower

Planning a visit to Niagara Falls? With so many options for tours and experiences, it can be overwhelming to pick the one that truly captures the essence of this natural wonder. We’ve taken a close look at the Niagara Falls City Cruise Behind the Falls and Skylon Tower tour offered by Grape & Wine Niagara Tours and here’s what you need to know before booking.

This tour combines up-close encounters with the waterfalls, a breathtaking panoramic view from a soaring tower, and a chance to explore the whirlpool currents and botanical sights—a comprehensive package for travelers eager to see Niagara from different angles. It’s designed for those who want a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and ease of access, all within about four hours.

Two things we love: First, the combination of experiences—from tunnels behind the falls to boat rides and tower views—means you get multiple perspectives in a single outing. Second, the guided narration and expert guides add context and stories that make each stop more meaningful.

A potential consideration is the seasonal operation of the boat tour, which runs from April to November; if visiting outside these months, you’ll need to adjust your expectations or plan for other attractions.

This tour works best for travelers who enjoy dramatic natural sights and want an accessible, well-organized way to see the highlights without feeling rushed. It’s especially good for first-time visitors or those with limited time in Niagara Falls.

Key Points

• Multiple perspectives: Experience Niagara Falls from behind, on the water, and from above.
• Expert-guided tour: Learn about the waterfalls, whirlpools, and history with professional narration.
• All-in-one experience: Includes two major attractions, a boat cruise, and panoramic tower views.
• Accessible and convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off in the downtown area make logistics easier.
• Seasonal considerations: The boat cruise is seasonal, so verify availability.
• Value for price: At $147.12, the tour offers a comprehensive view of Niagara’s key sights, especially considering the included admissions and guided commentary.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with convenient hotel pickup in downtown Niagara Falls, making it easy to start your day without fussing over transportation. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the roughly four-hour journey, which balances sightseeing with travel time.

Stop 1: Journey Behind the Falls

Our journey kicks off with the famous tunnels carved into the bedrock, leading visitors just feet from the roaring Horseshoe Falls. Standing behind the cascading water, you get a visceral sense of the raw power of nature—something photos just can’t fully capture. The tunnels are about 13 stories underground, and from observation portals, the view of water crashing down is spectacular.

Reviewers often mention how “feeling the mist and hearing the roar” makes this stop memorable. It’s a raw and immersive experience that appeals especially to those who want to stand close to this natural force. The admission is included, so no extra cost here.

Stop 2: Niagara City Cruises

Next, the boat cruise delivers an entirely different perspective. Gliding past American and Bridal Veil Falls, and then approaching the Horseshoe Falls at its base, you get soaked in spray and swept up in the awe-inspiring power of the water. The tour notes you’ll be “getting an up-close view of all three waterfalls,” which is true—standing on the boat, you’ll feel the mist on your face and hear the thunderous rush from the water.

This part is seasonal, operating from April through November. Many reviews praise this experience, with one noting that “getting so close to the falls makes you feel tiny—and that’s part of the magic.” Keep in mind, if weather is poor, the boat may be canceled, but the tour offers a full refund or rescheduling.

Stop 3: Skylon Tower

After the boat, you’ll ascend to 520 feet at the Skylon Tower. The panoramic views of the waterfalls, the Niagara River, and surrounding landscapes are truly breathtaking. From the observation deck, you can see the three falls plus the surrounding parks and even the distant cityscapes.

Reviews often highlight that the view from Skylon is worth the trip—it offers a bird’s-eye view that you can’t get from the ground. The admission is included, making it a good value for such stunning vistas.

Stop 4: Whirlpool Rapids and Floral Clock

The tour also includes a visit to the Whirlpool Rapids, known for their massive swirling waves and strong currents. Watching the standing waves and turbulent waters is fascinating, especially if you’re into geology or just love witnessing nature’s chaos.

The Floral Clock, a colorful, large-scale botanical timepiece, allows for some fun photos and offers a peaceful contrast to the roaring waterfalls. Both stops add variety and showcase different facets of Niagara’s natural beauty.

What to Expect Regarding Value and Experience

For $147.12, this tour packs a lot of highlights into just four hours. The inclusion of admissions to major attractions, professional guides, and hotel transportation makes it a convenient and fairly cost-effective way to see Niagara Falls’ top sights. Without the hassle of planning multiple separate tickets, you’re getting a curated experience.

The tour’s group size is capped at 30 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and manageable. The narration enriches the experience, offering insights into the waterfalls’ geology, history, and local lore.

While food and drinks are not included, they are available for purchase at each stop—so you can always bring snacks or plan for a meal after the tour.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance: The tour is typically booked about 24 days ahead, which suggests it’s popular.
• Weather considerations: Since the boat cruise is seasonal, check the operating dates.
• Dress appropriately: The mist behind the falls and on the boat can soak you. Wear waterproof gear or bring a raincoat.
• Time management: Each stop is carefully timed, but be prepared for a brisk pace.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded introduction to Niagara Falls. It’s great for those who appreciate natural beauty combined with ease of access—no long hikes or strenuous activities involved.

If you’re traveling with family, this tour offers a mix of adventure and sightseeing suitable for most ages. It’s also perfect for those with limited time who want to maximize their visit with a curated set of experiences.

However, if you’re someone who prefers independent exploration or has specific interests, you might find parts of the tour too structured. Also, those interested in seasonal activities outside April-November will need to look elsewhere for the boat experience.

The Sum Up

In all, this Niagara Falls tour delivers a balanced, memorable glimpse of one of nature’s most impressive spectacles. The combination of behind-the-scenes tunnels, an exciting boat cruise, and panoramic tower views makes it a compelling value for the price. It’s especially suitable for first-timers who want a hassle-free, comprehensive introduction to the falls.

The tour’s professional guides and included admissions streamline the experience, letting you focus on the awe-inspiring sights. While the boat cruise is seasonal, the other stops are available year-round, making this a flexible option.

If you’re looking to see Niagara from multiple perspectives with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers excellent bang for your buck. It’s a great choice to turn your Niagara Falls visit into an unforgettable adventure—without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour features hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Niagara Falls, making it easy to start and end your day without logistical headaches.

How long does the whole tour last?
The entire experience is approximately four hours, providing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are there any seasonal limitations?
Yes, the Niagara City Cruises boat is seasonal, operating from April through November. Outside that window, you’ll still get to enjoy the other attractions.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers admissions to Journey Behind the Falls, Skylon Tower, and, seasonally, the Voyage to the Falls boat tour. It also includes a guided narration and transportation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers and families find it suitable, especially since it’s well-organized and safe. Just keep in mind the seasonal nature of the boat cruise.

What should I bring or wear?
Expect spray from the falls—so waterproof clothing or ponchos are advisable. Comfortable shoes for walking and a camera for photos are recommended.

This tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience of Niagara Falls, capturing its power, beauty, and grandeur from various angles. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s a practical way to see the highlights and create lasting memories.