Celebrate 200 years of the Erie Canal with Niagara River Cruises’ free history cruise aboard the Queen of Peace. Learn the stories behind this vital waterway while enjoying tranquil views from the canal itself.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, requiring only basic mobility to board the boat.
Wildlife
History
The Erie Canal revolutionized commerce in the 19th century, linking the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean via the Hudson River and spurring regional development.
Conservation
Niagara River Cruises partners with local organizations to support waterway preservation, ensuring the Erie Canal remains a healthy habitat and cultural asset.
Niagara River Cruises
Celebrate 200 years of the Erie Canal with Niagara River Cruises’ free history cruise aboard the Queen of Peace. Learn the stories behind this vital waterway while enjoying tranquil views from the canal itself.
Niagara River Cruises operates seasonal sightseeing and music cruises from North Tonawanda, New York, aboard the vessel Queen Of Peace. The company offers a range of scheduled experiences including narrated history cruises, live music evenings, karaoke nights, and special-event sailings tied to local anniversaries. History cruises feature local storyteller Val Cronin leading guided narration about the Erie Canal, the Canal's 200th anniversary celebrations, and the region’s lumber and waterway heritage. Music programming includes the Live Blues Cruise led by Barry Arbogast with a three-piece band, Sunday Funday music cruises with Brian Beaudry performing acoustic sets, and karaoke events hosted by DJ MXN (Mixon Music), creating a social onboard atmosphere for families and groups.
Niagara River Cruises permits passengers to bring their own drinks and snacks for concerts and social cruises, and selects specific history cruises to be offered free to mark the Erie Canal bicentennial. Schedules and trip details are posted by the operator for each season; departure location is in North Tonawanda on the Niagara River. The combination of local narration, scheduled live music, themed events, and scenic waterfront views defines the operator’s public offerings. Prospective passengers can verify dates and availability through the business’s public schedule and sign up for individual trips such as the Live Blues Cruise, History Cruise, Karaoke Night with DJ MXN, and Sunday Funday Music Cruise. Ticketing, safety guidelines, and seasonal schedules are managed by the operator and announced before each sailing, ensuring clear information for travelers planning visits to North Tonawanda and families.
Home Base
North Tonawanda, NY
Departures on the Niagara River
Vessel
Queen Of Peace
Primary boat for public cruises
Trips Offered
5 trips
Music, history, and karaoke cruises
Special Events
Erie Canal 200th
Selected free history cruises
Check schedules and secure tickets for the Live Blues Cruise, History Cruise, Karaoke Night, Sunday Funday, or free Erie Canal 200th anniversary sailings.
Arrive Early to Secure Seating
Boarding starts 15 minutes before departure; arriving early ensures the best seats and a stress-free start.
Dress in Layers
Weather on the water can shift quickly, so layering helps you stay comfortable throughout the tour.
Bring Non-Alcoholic Snacks and Drinks
Alcohol is prohibited on these free cruises, so pack your own refreshments to stay hydrated and energized.
Photography Encouraged but Stay Safe
Capture historic sights from the boat, but watch your footing and keep hands inside the vessel for safety.
Layered Clothing
Adjustable warmth and comfort as weather changes on the water.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from sun exposure during the open-air cruise.
spring|summer|fall
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while enjoying the historical narrative and scenic views.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture unique waterfront perspectives and historic canal structures.