Adrenaline Junkies: Take a Spin on a Jet Boat on the Niagara River

Get ready for Class V rapids and plenty of thrills on this unforgettable adventure into the Niagara Gorge.

Attention adventurers! Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours offers up-close, get-wet encounters with one of the world’s great natural wonders.

The section of the Niagara River that attracts the most attention is, of course, Niagara Falls, and for good reason. A staggering 3,160 tons of water flows over its three waterfalls every second — Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil. But the 36-mile waterway that flows between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario offers plenty more opportunity for adventure. For a uniquely up-close, action-packed experience, see the Niagara River on a high-speed jet boat tour.

Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours operates popular, often sold-out tours. In fact, afterward, many of their riders gush that the tour was the highlight of their trip to Niagara Falls USA, with one reviewer specifically calling it a “party on the river.” Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from this jet boat excursion.

  • The Experience: Departing from the village of Lewiston, about 15 minutes north of Niagara Falls, the colorful, open-air jet boats take passengers on an epic, soaking-wet adventure. The provided poncho, life jacket, and water shoes are handy, but do leave behind your cell phone, camera, and anything you don’t want completely submerged (If you’d like to record the ride but don’t have an underwater camera, you can spring for the GoPro photos for sale afterward). Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours opened in 1992 and has since taken over 1.5 million people on this fast-paced yet scenic course on the Niagara River.
  • The Boats: The one-of-a-kind vessels are reminiscent of roller coasters, and as they’re specially designed to pack 1,500 horsepower, it’s easy to see why. The boats zip over the river, tackling stomach-dropping 360-degree spins and barreling through Class V whitewater rapids, absolutely guaranteeing every passenger will get saturated. But no fear — Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours captain and boat have been certified by the United States Coast Guard. (Children must be at least 44 inches tall to ride, which is usually 6 years old.)
  • ​Highlight: During the first part of the roughly 45- to 60-minute ride, the guide explains the region’s geology and rich history, and notes key sites along the way — like the power plants dotting the Niagara Gorge.


Jet away in Niagara Falls USA!

Our jet boat adventure brings you action-packed fun for the whole family! If you’re ever seeking outdoor adventures and activities around Niagara Falls State Park, this high-speed attraction provides the excitement and will leave a lasting impression of your whole trip. Visit us online to see how you can plan this adventure on your next visit!

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