riverboat discovery tours

• Riverboat Discovery Cruise Fairbanks

Climb aboard a classic Chena River sternwheeler to experience the living history of Fairbanks, Alaska.

• Things to Do in Fairbanks

More Details

Rates & dates, departure times, availability.

Add to My Trip

For decades, riverboats like the Discovery III sternwheeler ran the big rivers of Alaska's interior. They hauled freight and passengers, linked distant communities and helped build new ones. Today the boat takes visitors on a unique tour to explore that history and see firsthand some of Alaska's quintessential pastimes.

Experience some of Alaska's quintessential pastimes.

The stately Discovery III has three decks with comfortable indoor seating, and a fourth top deck with open-air seating. The large red paddlewheel splashing at the stern propels the boat on its journey down the Chena River. It's right on the water shortly after leaving Steamboat Landing that guests see their first Alaskan demo. A bushplane on floats takes off alongside the boat, banking in a long arc until it loops back and lands again. The pilot talks about the wild life of bush flying in Alaska before the boat continues downstream. The next stop is an exuberant sled dog demo at the riverside kennels of late four-time Iditarod musher Susan Butcher.

Upon reaching the confluence of the Chena and Tanana Rivers, guests disembark for a walking tour of a Chena Indian Village. Native Alaskan guides lead groups to see spruce cabins, caches, smokehouses, and crafts created by Athabascans native to interior Alaska. After spending time further exploring the village on their own, guests board the boat for a return ride up the Chena River.

The Riverboat Discovery Cruise includes a bush plane demo, sled dog demo, and Chena Indian Village tour. There is a small giftshop and galley selling snacks, drinks, ice cream, and hearty lunch boxes on the boat. The tour returns to the Steamboat Landing where guests can visit the Discovery Trading Post, the largest Alaskan souvenir shop in Fairbanks .

What to Bring

Wear comfortable clothes and dress in layers. Most of the tour is conducted outside, so bring a light coat or rain jacket if necessary.

Special Instructions

Guests must check in at the Steamboat Landing station at least 30 minutes prior to the tour departure to exchange their voucher for a boarding pass.

Transfers & Meeting Points

The Riverboat Discovery Cruise is just five minutes from the Fairbanks airport and 20 minutes from downtown Fairbanks. Many local hotels offer shuttles to the Riverboat Discovery. Guests must coordinate their own transportation to the tour.

Riverboat Discovery Cruise 1975 Discovery Drive Fairbanks, Alaska 99709

Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.

Child rates apply to children under the age of 13. Infants under the age of 2 may travel for free but must sit on an adult's lap.

Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.

• Collapse All

SHOW MAP >

With the 2021 summer season still taking shape, some tour providers may not yet have their operating dates set. Availability on AlaskaTravel.com reflects the most current information and is updated daily. Please contact us if you have questions about this tour.

Select a departure below to see current availability. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request.

Book Now >

Quick Facts

• Duration 3 Hours
• Options AM, PM
• Operating Dates Daily from 6/1/2024 to 8/31/2024
• Activity Level Less Active

What's Included

• Guided tour through an Athabascan village.
• Passage on a classic sternwheeler riverboat.
• Bush plane and sled dog demonstrations.
• Complimentary coffee and fresh donuts.

Guest Feedback

"We loved this! They made what might look like an ordinary river come alive! This was in our "Top 3 Attractions" list!"

~Ron from Illinois~

Photo Gallery

• Winter Vacations
• Northern Lights
• Railroad Vacations
• Self Drive Vacations
• Alaska Cruise Vacations
• Guided Bus Vacations
• Lodge Stays
• Summer in Alaska
• All Day Tours
• Alaska’s Cities
• National Parks
• Alaska’s Regions
• Arctic Circle
• Bear Viewing
• Day Cruises
• Dog Sledding
• Flightseeing
• Outdoor Adventures
• Glacier Tours
• River Rafting
• Sightseeing
• Sport Fishing
• Whale Watching
• First Time Visitors
• Stories from Alaska
• Booking Policies

Riverboat Discovery Sternwheeler Cruise in Fairbanks

Get a taste of the colorful history and cultural traditions in the great interior region of alaska..

Photo Journey:

Home » City-Based Day Tours » Fairbanks » Riverboat Discovery Sternwheeler Cruise in Fairbanks

Day Tour Details

What's included:.

• Narrated tour onboard the Riverboat Discovery III
• All taxes and fees

What's Not Included:

Meals and transfers to and from your hotel.

Riverboat Discovery Cruise Experience: Take a Video Tour:

Dates & Rates

Contact us to book this tour..

Thank you for your interest in this tour! At this time, it is not currently available to book online. Please feel free to continue to peruse our website for more Alaska travel ideas. If you would like options and information from our team of Alaska experts, please call 1-866-317-3325 or fill out the form below.

• * First Name: *
• * Last Name: *
• Questions or Special Requests:
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

For our annual big trip, we were looking for a self-guided way to see Alaska that included a train rather than a cruise ship. We found that and more online with Alaska Tours!

aco456 | Trip Advisor

Privacy & Cookies: This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use. For more info, read our Privacy Policy Accept & Hide This site uses cookies. Click here to accept.

• 1-888-425-1737
• Find a Tour

Fairbanks Sightseeing Tours

Riverboat Discovery Cruise

Approximately 5¼ hours

May 15 -September 15

1:00pm (from hotel)

Per Person - $99.95

• Snack Included
• Easy Activity Level
• Family Friendly

Enjoy a cruise on the Chena and Tanana rivers aboard an authentic sternwheeler and watch a bush pilot take off and land from a riverbank landing strip. From late June through early August, these waters teem with salmon. As the paddle wheel continues to churn the waters, witness the “wedding of the rivers.” When the clear waters of the Chena meet the glacier-fed Tanana, the result is clouds of silt that rise and fall over the river. Make a stop at the home of a late four-time Iditarod champion, meet some winning sled dogs and witness a sled-dog demonstration. Next, you’ll disembark the sternwheeler for a guided tour through a replica of an Athabascan Indian Village where you will learn about local life in depth.

Special Note

Grab and go lunch items are available at an additional charge.

This tour can only be booked in conjunction with a Gray Line Alaska package. To add this tour to your package, please call 1-888-425-1737.

Excursions Riverboat Discovery Cruise

Riverboat discovery cruise.

Departs from Fairbanks

Description

Welcome aboard! Take a ride on the authentic sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery III for a fully-narrated 3-1/2 hour cruise along the Chena and Tanana Rivers. See a bush plane demonstration. Visit the home and kennels of the late four-time Iditarod winner Susan Butcher. Gain insight into the ancient Athabascan Indian culture with a one-hour visit to an authentic Athabascan Indian Village.

Alaskan Native guides will take you ashore for a personalized tour of the village where you’ll discover traditional Native lifestyles. Learn how the wolf, fox, martin, and beaver were used to provide food and protection in the harsh Arctic climate. Enjoy the work of an Athabascan beadwork artist.

Back on the boat, watch a fish wheel in operation and see the ‘Wedding of the Rivers’ where the Chena and Tanana Rivers converge. End the tour at Steamboat Landing and Discovery Trading Post which features Captain Jim’s Gourmet Smoked Salmon.

• Travel Agents
• Travel Insurance
• [email protected]
• (907) 278-7878

• Chat is Offline
• Language Select Language English 简体中文 Chinese Español 日本語 Japanese 繁體中文 Chinese Traditional
• Special Offers Sign Up
• Cruise Deals" data-uk-url="https://www.princess.com/cruise-deals-promotions/uk/" data-uk-text=" Cruise Deals" data-gb-url="https://www.princess.com/cruise-deals-promotions/uk/" data-gb-text=" Cruise Deals" data-au-url="https://www.princess.com/cruise-deals-promotions/au/" data-au-text=" Cruise Deals" data-nz-url="https://www.princess.com/cruise-deals-promotions/au/" data-nz-text=" Cruise Deals" data-hk-url="https://book.princess.com/html/global/cruisedeals/hk/top-deals/" data-hk-text=" Cruise Deals" data-sg-url="https://book.princess.com/html/global/cruisedeals/sin/top-deals/" data-sg-text=" Cruise Deals" data-my-url="https://book.princess.com/html/global/cruisedeals/sin/top-deals/" data-my-text=" Cruise Deals" data-id-url="https://book.princess.com/html/global/cruisedeals/sin/top-deals/" data-id-text=" Cruise Deals" data-bn-url="https://book.princess.com/html/global/cruisedeals/sin/top-deals/" data-bn-text=" Cruise Deals" data-vn-url="https://book.princess.com/html/global/cruisedeals/sin/top-deals/" data-vn-text=" Cruise Deals" data-track="header" data-track-id="Cruise Deals"> Cruise Deals
• Log In | Register Welcome! Log Out My Princess ® Home Profile Information Future Cruise Credits Upcoming Cruises Captain’s Circle ℠ Cruise History Membership Info Refer-a-Friend
• Find Cruises
• Tap to Call
• Click to Chat

The Riverboat Discovery Cruise

Exceptional value.

• Customer Reviews

Points of Interest

• Riverboat Discovery

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Board the only remaining authentic Alaskan sternwheeler for a cruise along the Chena and Tanana rivers in Chena River State Recreation Area. With the feel of an old-time steamboat that frequented the river during the gold rush days, the modern-day Riverboat Discovery features an open sun deck, heated glass enclosed decks and is equipped with video equipment so you won't miss any of the beautiful scenery. On the first leg of your journey, you'll see a bush pilot perform a takeoff and landing demonstration from a riverbank landing strip. As the giant paddle wheel churns up the waters of the Chena, keep your cameras ready for the wolves, grizzly bears and black bears that make the recreation area home. Beavers, foxes and moose may be seen near the shore or an occasional eagle can be spotted flying overhead and the waters teem with salmon from late June through early August. During the narrated tour, complementary coffee and donuts are served while you witness the ''wedding of the rivers.'' The marriage of these two mighty rivers creates quite a unique demarcation line - when the clear waters of the Chena meet the Tanana, the world's greatest glacier river carrying tons of glacial silt from the Alaska Range, the result is clouds of silt that rise and fall over the river. You'll make a stop at the home of Dave Monson and Susan Butcher, the late four-time Iditarod champion, meet her winning sled dogs and witness a dog sleg demonstration. Back on board, you'll continue on to the Old Chena Indian Village, and disembark for a glimpse into Alaskan Native life and history. Alaskan Native guides will take you on a tour of an Athabascan Indian village, a spruce bark hut, a trapper's cabin made of spruce logs, and show you how a fish wheel operates. Before boarding for your trip back, you'll have 15 minutes at the end of the tour to wander around the village or to take pictures.

Special Notes:

Don’t miss the Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks (Local Review)

Last Updated on April 9, 2024

The Riverboat Discovery is a wonderful tour you don’t want to miss if you’re traveling to Fairbanks on your trip to Alaska during the summer months.

I’m a former Alaskan and resident of Fairbanks, and I still work in Alaska part of the year as a tour director. Over the past twenty years, I’ve taken hundreds of people to the Riverboat and been on this tour many times. It never gets old, even after many visits! I’ve never had a guest who didn’t love it or a client who booked it independently (including those who are skeptical of tours!) who didn’t thank me for the recommendation.

Why is the Riverboat such an amazing experience? For one thing, it’s a family owned business for three generations, going back to the busy days of riverboats on Alaska’s rivers. Their hospitality and experience really shine through when you join them for a few hours on the river.

In addition, the Riverboat goes up the Chena River and takes you to places you wouldn’t be able to get to any other way, like the impressive confluence of the Chena and Tanana Rivers. The recreated authenitic Athabascan Chena Village visit is another element that makes this a unique and unforgettable tour.

Listen to my interview with Wade Binkley of the Riverboat Discovery about three generations of life on the river:

Where is the riverboat discovery located.

The Riverboat Discovery is located in Fairbanks, Alaska, along the banks of the Chena River, not far from Fairbanks International Airport.

You can take a taxi or ride share easily to the riverboat landing, or park here if you have a rental car. If a trip on the Riverboat is included in your cruisetour or group tour in Fairbanks, transportation will be provided.

What river is the Riverboat Discovery cruise on?

The Chena River, which flows through Fairbanks to the Tanana River, where the Riverboat cruise turns around.

Who is the Riverboat Discovery experience best for?

Honestly, the Riverboat Discovery is an ideal experience for everyone! I have taken hundreds and maybe thousands of people to the Riverboat and I cannot think of a single person who didn’t like it.

Whether you’re traveling on your own to Fairbanks or part of an organized tour or cruise tour, any age or ability level, this tour is a sure bet for a relaxing and fun morning or afternoon.

What to expect on the Riverboat Discovery

First of all, the Riverboat is big. There is plenty of room to move around on all four decks and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. If you’re sitting indoors there is plenty of room to stand outside as well if you want to go out for photos or fresh air.

There is a galley with snacks and drinks on the first floor and plenty of restrooms.

The tour is about three hours long and takes you downstream on the Chena River to where it meets the Tanana River, with really impressive views of the Tanana at the turnaround point.

In the middle of the tour you will have the opportunity to visit Chena Village. Chena Village is a created village at the site of an Athabascan fish camp. Here you will learn from young local Native Alaskan guides all about the culture and traditions of the Athabascan people , both modern day as well as in the past and how those traditions have adapted since settlers came to Alaska’s interior.

You’ll see how salmon are smoked and preserved as well as other ways of preserving food for Alaska’s harsh winters, and all about traditional dress. It’s a fun and educational experience that also allows for time to explore the village on your own.

You’ll also pass Trailbreaker Kennel, home of the late Susan Butcher, a four time Iditarod winner. Susan’s husband Dave shares about the kennel and the sport of dog mushing and does a cart run with his dog team. Usually you also get to see at least one puppy running around! You’ll also get to learn Susan’s inspiring story and legacy.

If you’re interested in shopping, give yourself a little time before or after the tour since their gift shop has an excellent selection and really good prices.

Accessibility and Mobility

The Riverboat Discovery and the landing are fully wheelchair accessible. The Riverboat has four levels and the upper levels are only accessible by stairs, but there is plenty of space on the first level. Make sure to let them know if you’ll be using a wheelchair, that way they can help you with boarding very efficiently.

When does the Riverboat Discovery operate?

The Riverboat Discovery is a summer experience in Fairbanks. After the ice breaks up and the river has enough water the Riverboat starts operating, generally in mid May. It continues until early fall, usually mid to late September.

How long is the Riverboat Discovery cruise?

The Riverboat Discovery is about three hours. The morning Riverboat is 8:45 am-11:45 am and the afternoon is 2pm-5pm.

Is there food on board the boat?

Yes! They have hot dogs and chili on the boat for purchase and in the morning they have complimentary coffee and blueberry donuts (yum!). They have a few other snacks available for purchase as well.

They also serve lunch at the landing between the morning and afternoon trip, which is super convenient. They have salads, sandwiches and wraps. There is also a sit down lunch from 11:45 am – 1pm offering a set menu of stew, roasted vegetables, salad and dessert.

Is there wifi or cell service?

There is no wifi on board the boat, however there is decent cell service on the river where the riverboat goes. This does depend a bit on your cell provider and if you can roam in Alaska on your plan if you’re a visitor.

Are there restrooms on board the Riverboat Discovery?

Yes, there are lots of restrooms on the Riverboat, with flushing toilets and running water. There are also restrooms at the landing.

What to wear for the Riverboat Discovery

In mid summer, Fairbanks is generally very dry and often quite hot. Most days in mid June through early August are in the 70s and 80s, occasionally hotter. There can be rain showers or cooler weather any day, so I always recommend bringing and extra layer or a rain jacket.

The boat ride is generally not as windy as boat tours on the open ocean, since the boat isn’t moving as fast.

In early and late season it can definitely be raining or chilly. If you start in the morning and it’s cold, it might be warm in the afternoon so make sure you have a couple of layers to stay comfortable.

Costs and Booking

If you are visiting Fairbanks as part of a cruisetour or other organized tour, check to see if the Riverboat Discovery is already included as part of your time in Fairbanks. If not, you can book it on your own (or possibly through your guide, check with them).

If you’re traveling on your own to Fairbanks, you can book directly through their website .

Privacy Policy

A highlight for our guests is the tour of our Chena Native Village. There you will get to meet some of our Alaskan Native Guides who will show you how the Athabaskan survived for 10,000 years in these harsh environments, and how they adapted to Village life and Western culture in the past century.

Cabin & Cache

Riverboat travel into the interior prompted the building of trading posts, allowing trade between Native fur trappers and newly arrived people from all over the world. Constructed by a crew of Alaska Native craftsmen, our Trappers Cabin, Line Cabin, and Cache provide a glimpse into the development of villages along the rivers of Alaska.

Garments & Hides

Learn how the Athabascans hunted the reclusive moose, the process for tanning moose hide, and then enjoy viewing our authentic moose hide and fur native regalia pieces. They were all sewn by hand by renowned skin sewing and beadwork artist Dixie Alexander.

Ancient & Reindeer

Our resident herd of reindeer anchors this area depicting an early Athabascan campsite. Discover how these nomadic people existed in this harsh climate and did so quite successfully for thousands of years before any western influence. From hunting techniques to creative uses of birch bark, you’ll be amazed by the ingenuity and creativity of Athabascan ancestors

At the end of your guided tour, you will have time to explore the village on your own, interact with our guides and visit dogs from Susan Butcher’s Trail Breaker Kennel.

Trail Breaker Kennel Dog Yard

A handler from Susan Butcher’s Trail Breaker Kennel will be available to answer any questions about the Alaskan Husky and the sport of Dog Mushing. There will be a few sled dogs there to help them in any demonstrations

1975 Discovery Drive Fairbanks, AK 99709

1-866-479-6673

907-479-6673

[email protected]

Gold Dredge 8

Captain Jim's Salmon

Adventure Green Alaska

Alaska Travel Industry Association

Explore Fairbanks

PVA Green Waters

Trip Advisor

Trail Breaker Kennel

• 1-855-932-1711
• My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Cruises From Fairbanks

Our Alaska Cruisetours are the only way to see this fascinating town as part of your Alaska cruise. And it is something to see. Fairbanks, Alaska’s second-largest city was born of gold rush frenzy, thanks to Felix Pedro, a prospector who found the precious metal in 1902 in a stream now known as “Pedro Creek.” Fairbanks features captivating excursions for history enthusiasts. Hop aboard a three-hour Riverboat Discovery Tour and visit the kennels of the late four-time Iditarod champion, Susan Butcher. Pan for gold in the Tanana Valley and explore the site of Gold Dredge 8. Though much of Fairbanks today is an amalgam of modern shops and malls, its history is celebrated at Pioneer Park, which features the Tanana Railroad Museum and a gold rush town comprising 35 restored buildings.

Find The Best Cruises From Fairbanks

CRUISES TO ALASKA

ALASKA CRUISETOURS

Add to your cruise.

Flight Ease

Holland America Line Flight Ease® offers specially negotiated low prices, a convenient and worry-free way to book air travel, late-arrival protection, and the freedom to change your flights with no change fees.

Pre/Post Cruise

Find exceptional City Stays & Pre/Post Overland Packages, which offer a seamless experience ashore to add to your cruise.

Celebrations on Board

Life should be celebrated! What better way than with a Holland America Line cruise? Let us create the perfect event while you relax and have the time of your life.

Things To Do In Fairbanks

RIVERBOAT DISCOVERY

CHENA HOT SPRINGS RESORT

UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA MUSEUM OF THE NORTH

Cruises from fairbanks: learn more, fairbanks at a glance.

• When was Fairbanks Founded?  1903
• What is the Population?  96,849 according to the 2019 US Census
• What language is primarily spoken?  English
• Fairbanks, AK is GMT/UTC - 9h during Alaska Standard Time
• Fairbanks, AK is GMT/UTC - 8h during Alaska Daylight Time
• What currency is used in Fairbanks, AK?  USD (Dollar)

Travel Tips for Fairbanks

How do I book a flight to Fairbanks?  At Holland America we offer cruise travelers low prices on their flights. Please see more information on our  flight ease program .

Where should I stay when cruising from Fairbanks?  Choose from our  Alaska Land and Sea cruise tour packages  with Holland America and spend up to 3 nights in Denali National Park.

What are some of the top places to see in Fairbanks?  Visit our  Fairbanks, Alaska port page  for more information on our travel recommendations.

Port Information

What should I expect boarding to like for my cruise departing Fairbanks, AK?   Book an Alaska Land and Sea CruiseTour and visit Fairbanks, Alaska. From Fairbanks, Alaska take a cruisetrain or bus to Anchorage/Seward or Whittier port and head out on your Alaska cruise. Please visit our  cruise preparation FAQ  for information on how to access or print boarding passes, how to check in online, and to see if you need a passport.

Can I book an airport shuttle to my Fairbanks hotel?  Book an airport transfer from the airport to your ship after you book a cruise with Holland America Line. We make getting to and from your cruise comfortable, convenient and hassle-free. For more information on EXC City Stays & Overland Tours, please visit:  https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/pre-post-travel-cruise.html .

Are you an already booked guest with Holland America Line? For booked guests, please see our  travel planning  details on how to book an airport transfer.

Where do I leave from the Port of Seattle?  Pier 91 is the home port for Holland America Lines. The address of Pier 91 is 2001 W Garfield Way, Seattle, WA 98199

Curious about learning more about cruising or want more information?

Please visit our most  frequently asked questions page  on cruise preparation, transportation, safety and security, and more.

Sign Up For Special Offers

Riverboat Discovery Tour

• Coffee and/or Tea
• Fresh-baked Alaskan Blueberry donuts are served everyday, complimentary to all guests.
• Entry/Admission - Fairbanks
• 1975 Discovery Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 500 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at 1975 Discovery Dr 1975 Discovery Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA See address & details
• 1 Riverboat Discovery Stop: 3 hours - Admission included Your three-hour cruise will take you into the heart of Alaska and introduce you to a family who has made the rivers of Alaska a way of life for five generations. You will see a bush floatplane takeoff alongside the boat, visit the home and kennels of the late four-time Iditarod winner Susan Butcher and see her champion sled dogs in action. Be immersed into the ancient Athabascan Indian culture when our Alaskan Native Guides take you on a personalized tour of the Chena Indian Village. The Binkley family invites you to experience a slice of Alaskan life! Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• T759FUrichs 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles historic adventure excellent excursion ride. Many plus features including native camp and sled dog training facility. The history of the boat itself was worth the trip. Read more Written April 26, 2024
• BlueSkiesHappyDays 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Discovery! This is a great attraction to visit. The commentary on the riverboat is very informative. We were entertained the whole time and thoroughly enjoyed the stops along the way. I don't want to spoil some of the surprises, but it's well worth the time. I would suggest bringing some snacks. Also, the family-style lunch afterward at the Discovery Dining Hall was a hearty meal. It's a fun lunch, especially if you are with a group and/or enjoy meeting and chatting with other tourists. If paired with the Gold Dredge 8 excursion, it's a perfect way to spend the day. Read more Written February 17, 2024
• A1657PMjamesf 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Riverboat Ride We were on the very last ride of the season, and it was a most beautiful day. First, we ate the best stew I've ever had in the dining room by the dock. Once we were on our way it so beautiful rolling up the river. A pilot landed his plane on the water by us, this is part of the experience. The captain that narrated the trip seemed to be friends with him and we could hear him talking on the intercom. Very interesting. Then we got to see where sled dogs lived and are trained at the famous place of the lady that won the Iditarod. Her husband talked to us. We watched the dogs run a sled. We also stopped at a native village and walked around. Heard stories and learned a lot about the people and how they lived there. It was a great trip. Read more Written November 9, 2023
• CUAnon 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An interesting, relaxing and informative cruise on the Chena River. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip on the sternwheeler. The boat ride began with a delicious lunch, family style, and time to browse in the gift shop, after which we boarded the boat. All of this was meticulously organized, no easy feat with so many people. We learned a huge amount about the early history of the area at the Athabascan village and about more recent history from the narrator. Watching the bush pilot land by the boat was exciting, and we loved hearing about Susan Butcher from her husband and watching the dogs in action. We highly recommend this trip. Read more Written October 6, 2023
• mariacA3046DL 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Tourist trap , overcrowded ,but entertaining, informative and educational All the presentations of the bush planes, the dog sleds and the Native Village were good. However, this cruise has a theme park vibes. It is overcrowded, on the boat and in the gift shop. Tickets were a bit pricey and the lines were long. If you can get pass these facts, it was quite entertaining and we learned a few things about Alaska on this cruise. Read more Written September 22, 2023
• cindycollie 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Surprisingly Wonderful! This was included in our Princess Cruise package so I really did not know what to expect. Despite the rainy, misty weather it turned out to be an excellent and informative excursion. The narrator was very good and informative. They included lots of "stops" where different aspects of Alaskan life were shared; a bush plane landing and take-off, dog sled team, reindeer, native village. Ship was large and roomy, served snacks and hot beverages, as well as had other food for purchase. A favorite was the delicious Salmon Dip that was served to all the guests. After the cruise, as part of our package, we were treated to a tasty family style lunch in their discovery building. Portions provided to each table could have been larger, but the food was good and wait staff attentive. The obligatory touristy gift shop was also on the premises. Read more Written September 22, 2023
• JNC-CT-RI 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Alaska Vacation We loved it!!! A great lunch! The riverboat was fun, only went a short distance but stopped for a dog sled training facility then to a simulated Alaskan village giving us a lot of knowledge. And the gift shop, nice items at reasonable prices. Thank you Read more Written September 19, 2023
• Safari32442474968 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles It was nice All of the crew people were very nice. The male and female athabadan guides were very good. Informational and friendly. The salmon wad good but over priced. I enjoyed the sled dog exhibit but would have enjoyed being closer. Was fun to watch the bush pilot take off. I was disappointed that actual boat ride was so short. Over all it was a good experience but a bit too touristy for me Read more Written September 18, 2023
• 273colleent 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A Great Experience A top River Cruise, with information provided, all the way and the stop at the recreated Athabascan Village, was very relaxing and informative, with a lot of photos taken Read more Written September 17, 2023
• Dreamer40668078908 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Surprisingly entertaining! I joined this trip only because my wife booked it. I was expecting we were going to float on the river seeing sceneries listening to explanations. Actually it was much more than my expectation. Really entertaining and I learned a lot about the rich culture along the river. I especially liked the native Alaskan village section. I had been curious about the native people here. Those young local people telling and demonstrating their ancestors’ culture was very interesting and informative. I was ables to learn and understand much more than just visiting museums. Although so many people were on the same boat, the whole trip was very well organized. I didn’t feel any stress of being in such a large group. I can recommend this to anyone who is visiting Fairbanks. Read more Written September 16, 2023
• Donna s 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A lazy ride down the Chena river Although the boat is slow moving, it was very interesting and beautiful trip down the river. They shared a lot of information about float planes, sled dogs, and native Alaskans. Although they offer a meal before departure, they do offer food on board. They offer free coffee and donuts. They also sell hamburgers, hotdogs and chili. One of the hotdogs available is a reindeer hotdog. Of course they also sell beer and wine. Read more Written September 13, 2023
• A1588SNdebk 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Alaska is the last frontier ♥️ Lunch on the river dock side. Stopped for an hour then headed to Chena Hotsprings. Definitely a place to go for a couple days Read more Written September 12, 2023
• johnbN568YY 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Interested trip down the river Interesting trip, but boat moves slowly. Spent quite a lot of time at the native village - some parts were more interesting than others. Impressed with their commentary and including people off the boat Read more Written September 7, 2023
• Passport15041581978 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Save your money. Not worth the money, all of the activities are staged, I felt like we were on Disney ride. It is informative but not worth the money. Read more Written September 4, 2023
• alicialF2118JQ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Riverboat Discovery is a must do when in Fairbanks!!!! A definite must when in Fairbanks! The guides were so informative. Loved meeting Susan Butcher’s daughter Tekla, seeing the float plane take off and land and learning about the native culture. Dress warm and sit outside. It’s worth it! Read more Written August 31, 2023

More to explore in Fairbanks

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Riverboat Discovery Tour provided by Riverboat Discovery