Set sail on a captivating 1.5-hour cruise along the Niagara River, where local storyteller Val Cronin brings history to life through engaging tales and scenic views. Discover the rich stories behind the canal, Lumber City, and the waterway’s natural beauty in this unique journey.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable for most levels, no special fitness needed
Wildlife
History
The Niagara region played a pivotal role during the canal-building era in the 19th century, shaping trade and transportation.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to protect local habitats and maintain water quality along the river.
Niagara River Cruises
Set sail on a captivating 1.5-hour cruise along the Niagara River, where local storyteller Val Cronin brings history to life through engaging tales and scenic views. Discover the rich stories behind the canal, Lumber City, and the waterway’s natural beauty in this unique journey.
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.
Bring your camera
Capture the scenic river views and interesting landmarks along the cruise.
Dress for the weather
Wear layers and sun protection, as the boat offers open-air viewing.
Arrive early
Get good seats and settle in before departure time.
Listen close
Pay attention to Val’s storytelling for an enriching experience.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during daytime hours on the water.
summer
Hat with brim
Shield your face from the sun while on deck.
spring; summer
Binoculars
Optional for getting a closer look at wildlife or distant objects.
Light jacket
Keep warm if it gets breezy or cooler.
spring; fall