NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. — It’s opening day for the Maid of the Mist, and the first full season that the new, all electric-emission free vessels will be running.
The Maid of the Mist powered up for the first ride of the season, and by powered up, we mean literally. These vessels are powered by lithium ion batteries and will be charged in-between each tour.
Maid of the Mist spokesperson Kevin Keenan says it will change the way people experience the falls.
“Vessels don’t have diesel engines, so there’s no vibration during the ride, no diesel fumes and so a very quiet ride, and what it allows the guests to do is hear the roar of the falls,” Keenan said.
It’s something that new visitors like.
“I have an electric car so I think it’s pretty neat,” said Matt Herman, who was visiting the Falls from Boston.
The boats are named the Nikola Tesla and James V. Glynn. They feature a more expansive deck than the older boats, which means more room to space out. They launched at the end of last season, only running for a month, Now they’ll be the two main vessels people will ride this year.
Although it was a cold and rainy day to kick off the season, that didn’t spoil the excitement of the moment.
“It’s just a great day, the new green tech of these vessels, so it’s one of the most exciting days we’ve had in a while,” Keenan added.
Maid of the Mist tours will operate at reduced capacity and all visitors will be required to wear a face covering. Visitor touch points will be sanitized frequently. You can purchase tickets ahead of time online.