The Maid of the Mist is getting ready to carry hundreds of thousands of guests- as it prepares to open for the season – on the earliest day ever.
According to spokesman, Kevin Keenan they are ready, “The Maids were painted, signage was removed and refurbished and the engines were thoroughly inspected and received regular off-season maintenance.” The boats were then put into the water – which according to Keenan – is a piece of cake, “Returning Maid of the Mist VI and Maid of the Mist VII to the waters of the lower Niagara River prior to the start of each season works like clockwork. The vessels are lifted off the dry dock by our Liebherr crane and lowered into the water. Once the boats are properly secured to the crane, it only takes about 15 minutes to lift them and then lower them into the river.”
And some good news, the mild winter made it easier for the crews to install new decking on both boats.
It’s always a fun thing to do when friends visit from out of town. Most folks, myself included – even after many rides – are always amazed on the ride. The power of the falls is something you can’t compare to anything else. So close. So exciting!
The Maid of the Mist has had a long and storied past. And I mean long!
Did you know the first Maid of the Mist boat was launched in 1846? That’s before Niagara Falls was even a city. It’s crazy, right?It was a steamboat! And get this, it was large enough to carry a stagecoach and horses! In 1901, Theodore Roosevelt reportedly took a ride on the Maid – as he was here to be sworn in as 26th President of the United States. Born and raised here and I never knew that!
They’ve experienced ice jams, fires, even saved a boy who fell over the falls. What a lucky kid.
And talk about a who’s who list of guests: President Carter, Princess Diana with Price William and Prince Harry, Robert Redford, Al Pacino and many more! Kate Hudson and her son were guests last year!
Photos courtesy: Maid of the Mist
The season will begin on the earliest date ever – April 1, 2017 at 9 a.m. (it runs through November 5, 2017) “Maid of the Mist VI and Maid of the Mist VII are ready to navigate the waters of the Lower Niagara River to the Maid of the Mist Pool at the base of the Horseshoe Falls,” said Christopher Glynn, president of Maid of the Mist. “Our captains, crew members and associates are prepared to welcome guests from around the world as we build on last year’s record season, when 1.6 million visitors boarded our iconic vessels. “Our guests with take with them an experience that will last a lifetime.”
Tickets are $18.25 for adults, $10.65 for kids 6-12, children 5 and under ride free.
You can find more information at maidofthemist.com
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