Maid of the Mist to launch for 129th consecutive season on May 10th
Iconic experience a hallmark on the bucket-list of celebrities, world leaders and more than 85 million others since 1846
Mothers to ride free on Mother's Day
NIAGARA FALLS, NY, May 7, 2014 /CNW/ - Celebrities, world leaders and tourists from Canada and around the world will once again have a chance to ride the iconic Maid of the Mist when the boats are launched in Niagara Falls, N.Y., beginning Saturday, May 10, at 10 a.m. The Maid's 2014 season marks the 129th consecutive year for one of North America's longest running tourist attractions, and one that has long been considered a "must do" for Niagara Falls visitors from around the world.
"For 129 years, the Maid of the Mist has been on the bucket-list of the world's most famous, and not so famous visitors to Niagara Falls, and 2014 continues this genuine tradition," said Christopher Glynn, president of the Maid of the Mist.
All mothers will ride free on Mother's Day, in honor of the 80th birthday of James Glynn, Chairman of the Maid of the Mist Corp. 2014 also marks James Glynn's 64th consecutive season with the Maid of the Mist.
Since 1846, and continuously since 1885, Maid of the Mist vessels have safely taken millions of visitors on a breathtaking voyage to the base of Niagara Falls, where they enjoy an unequalled view of one of the wonders of the world, feel the mist on their face and hear the roar of the Falls.
While this year's opening date is a few weeks later than the previous two years, since 1948, the average opening date of the Maid of the Mist season is May 8, and the Maid's annual launch is often considered the true beginning of tourism season at Niagara Falls.
At the helm of the Maid of the Mist VI and Maid of the Mist VII this year, seven captains and mates bring a combined 111 years of Maid of the Mist experience, and have made nearly 400,000 trips to the Maid of the Mist Pool at the base of the Falls.
"To successfully and safely navigate the swirling, swift waters of the Lower Niagara, there is no substitute for the Maid of the Mist team's experience, and Niagara Falls visitors want to be part of that history," Glynn said. "We're proud of the dedication, loyalty and capability of our captains, mates, crew members and all of our associates who work tirelessly to make the Maid of the Mist a unique attraction in Niagara Falls."
The Maid of the Mist will continue to offer free narration in English and French during the voyage, and this season marks a number of enhancements to the Maid of the Mist experience:
- Online ticketing (www.maidofthemist.com)
- A redesigned, smart phone- and tablet-friendly Maid of the Mist website
- Free Wi-Fi on board the Maid of the Mist and in the area of the Observation Tower
- QR codes on signage at the ticket booth, the Observation Deck, on board and in the Maid of the Mist Store, allowing guests to easily learn more about the storied history of the Maid of the Mist before, during and after the boat ride
- Renovated on-board restrooms
Operating hours through May 16 are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekdays; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., weekends. Victoria Day Weekend, May 17-18: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; May 19-23, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Memorial Day Weekend: Saturday and Sunday, May 24-25, 9:15 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, May 26, 9:15 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Extended summer hours will begin May 27.
"To get the same experience as Brad Pitt, Princess Diana, heads of state and other celebrities, along with millions of other visitors from every nation on the planet, you need to come to Niagara Falls, U.S.A.," Glynn said. "You haven't enjoyed an authentic Niagara Falls boat tour experience until you've been on the Maid of the Mist." "
Whatever the season, there's a good reason to visit Niagara USA and explore the Falls and beyond. From up close and powerful views, picturesque parks and first class shopping; there's also endless excitement and adventure for everyone to experience. American history comes alive in Niagara USA at Old Fort Niagara, the oldest fortress on the Great Lakes. Take a turn on a Herschell Carrousel at the Factory Museum in North Tonawanda, or cruise back in time at Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises. Get deeper into Niagara USA's past at the Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride.
For more information, visit www.maidofthemist.com
SOURCE: Maid of the Mist
To arrange an interview: Natasha Boeck, Environics Communications, 416-969-2724
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