Travelers heading to Niagara Falls later this year will be able to witness the natural spectacle via the first two new all-electric, zero-emission passenger vessels constructed in the United States.

The catamaran-style vessels will help more than 1.6 million visitors each year witness the splendor of Niagara Falls when they are finally put into service in mid-September following construction, launch and certification.

"The Maid of the Mist has offered tours of the world-famous Niagara Falls waterfalls and of the Niagara River Gorge for more than a century, and are a signature tourism attraction of Western New York," Governor Andrew Cuomo said in a statement. "The new zero-emission boats will continue that proud tradition while continuing our efforts to make New York State a premier environmentally friendly tourism destination."

The new boats were unveiled during a ceremony featuring Maid of the Mist President Christopher M. Glynn, New York State Lieutenant Governor Kathleen C. Hochul and other local and state tourism officials.

"It makes perfect sense for Maid of the Mist to be a world leader with the implementation of this green technology," Glynn said. "The new vessels will carry our guests to the base of Niagara Falls, one of the world's largest sources of clean hydroelectric power."

When the new vessels begin operating, the Maid of the Mist VI (1990) and Maid of the Mist VII (1997) will be removed from service.

Maid of the Mist first launched in 1846, making it one of North America's longest running tourist attractions. Maid of the Mist vessels have been continuously operating tours to the base of Niagara Falls for 134 consecutive years, providing guests from around the world with an iconic experience.

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