The ferocious surge of water that cascades over Niagara Falls is like no other in the world. The natural spectacle attracts thousands of tourists every year and it is not hard to see why. Seeing the falls from above and below are bucket list essentials and a highlight of any visit to the Great Lakes region of North America and Canada.
Located on the Niagara River, which connects Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, Niagara Falls is a group of three waterfalls – American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and the most famous, Horseshoe (Canadian) Falls, which straddles the border between the United States and Canada. Dropping from a height of about 51 metres, Horseshoe Falls have the highest flow-rate of any waterfall in North America. Together, the three falls drop over 3000 tons of water every second.
The falls are the main attraction for expedition cruises of the Great Lakes of North America and Canada. Less known is the man-made marvel that allows ships to bypass the falls between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. The Welland Canal connects Lake Ontario and Lake Erie through a complex system of eight locks which allow ships to traverse up and down the Niagara escarpment. To put it simply for those who aren’t cruise enthusiasts, a lock is basically an elevator for ships. A ship will enter a lock gate and it will close the ship in, becoming watertight and then water is either drained from the chamber to travel down river or poured into the chamber to travel upriver.
Cruising through the Welland Canal is not only essential to a Great Lakes cruise but it’s an entertaining journey as guests pass through each lock. Built in 1829, the Welland Canal has been the way ships have bypassed Niagara Falls for nearly 200 years.
In 2021, Victory Cruise Lines will have 26 cruises visiting the Great Lakes and Niagara Falls between April and November and, for a limited time, Victory is offering an early bird offer on all 26 cruises. Prices begin from US$4481 per person, twin share, and guests can save up to US$2000 per couple if booked before June 30, 2020. With demand from the cancelled 2020 season (due to Covid-19) spilling over into 2021, early bookings are essential to secure cabins.
To book, consumers or travel agents can call Cruise Traveller on 1800 507 777 or visit www.cruisetraveller.com.au
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