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    1. Local experiences/
    2. Fairbanks, AK/
    3. Water Activities/
    4. Boat Tours/
    5. Riverboat Discovery Cruise on the Chena River

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    Riverboat Discovery Cruise on the Chena River

    Experience Alaskan river life with floatplane, sled dogs, and native village on a three-hour Chena River cruise

    From$94/ person

    Duration

    3 hrs

    Includes

    Riverboat cruise, Coffee & donuts

    Highlights

    Glide along the Chena River on a historic sternwheeler and witness Alaska’s living cultures and frontier spirit during this three-hour outing.

    Meet sled dogs, watch a bush plane lift off, and stroll an Athabascan village while enjoying onboard comfort.

    • Watch a bush floatplane take off beside the boat
    • Visit champion Iditarod sled dog kennels
    • Explore an Athabascan village with native guides
    • Learn five generations of riverboat family history
    • Savor complimentary coffee and blueberry donuts

    What's Included

    • Complimentary coffee and tea
    • Fresh baked blueberry donuts

    FAQs

    Are reservations required?
    Reservations are recommended to secure your preferred departure.

    How long is the tour?
    The cruise lasts three hours and runs twice daily from mid-May to mid-September.

    What should I wear?
    Dress in layers; portions of the tour are outdoors, though the decks are heated or air-conditioned.

    Things to know

    Reservations are recommended and tours run mid-May to mid-September. Layers are advised for outdoor portions and only trained service animals are allowed.

    Cancellation policy

    Full refund for cancellations or guest number modifications up to 48 hours before departure. After 48 hours, cancellations or reductions are non-refundable. Reservations may be rebooked for a later departure, subject to availability. Refunds exclude service fees and taxes.

    Meeting location

    1975 Discovery Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99709

    Experience provided by Riverboat Discovery & Gold Dredge 8
    Experience provided by Riverboat Discovery & Gold Dredge 8

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #EZB2J2

    Adult

    $94.95

    Ages 13+

    0

    Child

    $54.95

    Ages 3-12 (Children under 3 are Free)

    0

    Handpicked for you, so you can book with confidence

    • Best local prices

    • Flexible cancellation

    • Private and secure

    Each booking directly supports small businesses in our community.

    4.8 stars• 3.1K reviews

    Review summary

    4.8
    Excellent
    3.1K reviews•Google Maps

    This riverboat cruise consistently ranks as a standout attraction in Fairbanks, with visitors calling it one of the best tours they've experienced in Alaska. The crew earns particular praise for being knowledgeable and personable, creating an engaging atmosphere throughout the journey. You'll get a comprehensive Alaska experience that includes watching sled dogs in action, seeing a bush plane demonstration on the water, and touring a traditional Alaskan village with insights into Native culture. The scenery along the Tanana River is beautiful, and there are plenty of photo opportunities throughout. Many guests recommend dressing warmly so you can enjoy the outdoor seating and better views. The onboard chili gets good reviews, and the gift shop is worth browsing. One recent reviewer noted a seating issue where there weren't enough spots for all passengers, but this seems to be an isolated incident rather than a pattern. Overall, if you're looking for an authentic, well-organized Alaskan experience in the Fairbanks area, this tour delivers on multiple fronts.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    We had a lot of fun on this excursion! Dress warm so you can sit outside and see more. We did this as part of our cruise tour so we were given lunch. They have a gift shop and photo opportunities. The staff were great and showed us so many cool places. Would definitely recommend it if in the area.

    Photo of meganlynne18

    meganlynne18

    October 11, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    We had a lot of fun on this excursion! Dress warm so you can sit outside and see more. We did this as part of our cruise tour so we were given lunch. They have a gift shop and photo opportunities. The staff were great and showed us so many cool places. Would definitely recommend it if in the area.

    Photo of meganlynne18

    meganlynne18

    October 11, 2025