Experience Alaskan river life with floatplane, sled dogs, and native village on a three-hour Chena River cruise
3 hrs
Riverboat cruise, Coffee & donuts
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.
Reservations are recommended and tours run mid-May to mid-September. Layers are advised for outdoor portions and only trained service animals are allowed.
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.
Product ID: EZB2J2
Reservations are recommended to secure your preferred departure.
The cruise lasts three hours and runs twice daily from mid-May to mid-September.
Dress in layers; portions of the tour are outdoors, though the decks are heated or air-conditioned.
Steamboat Landing, 1975 Discovery Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99709
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.
Gold Dredge 8 was definitely the better one for me, but I do like a good cruise on the river.
Rodney
VerifiedJuly 23, 2026
Gold Dredge 8 was definitely the better one for me, but I do like a good cruise on the river.
Rodney
VerifiedJuly 23, 2026
Add a family-style, all-you-can-eat lunch at Discovery Dining Hall
Chase the Northern Lights with hands-on photography instruction
Cast for Arctic grayling on a guided Fairbanks fishing float trip
Spend a full day fly or spin fishing the clear waters of the Chena River
Float the Chena River while watching for Alaska wildlife
Fish Clearwater Creek for Arctic grayling with gear, lunch, and Fairbanks-area transport