riverboat discovery tour reviews

Riverboat Discovery

Review Highlights

“ Mary Binkley, one of the people who started the fabulous riverboat tour , waved at us from the bank as we went by. ” in 8 reviews

“ There our guide talked to the husband of Susan Butcher who won the race four times (she has since passed on). ” in 7 reviews

“ A part of the Princess Alaska tour, it was not just a boat tour, but sea planes, sled dogs and a native village , all live. ” in 7 reviews

Location & Hours

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1975 Discovery Dr

Fairbanks, AK 99709

Serving Fairbanks Area

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About the business.

Discovery awaits. For thousands of years, rivers have shaped our lands and the way that we live on them, and for five generations the Binkley family has made the rivers of Alaska their way of life. This unique three-hour tour aboard the Sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery will take you into the golden heart of Alaska as you discover our history, our culture, and our people. Meet modern day pioneers, view wildlife, and watch a bush pilot take off and land. Visit Trail Breaker Kennel, home of the late Iditarod Champion, Susan Butcher, and see her champion sled dogs in action! The Sternwheeler Discover will take you back in time and deliver you to Chena Village, a living museum, dedicated to Alaskan Native culture. Morning and afternoon tours daily. So much more than just a boat ride, Discovery awaits! …

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At least 15 minutes before departure time. They are very punctual

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Soul-filling, educational, and family-friendly, this tour is an interesting mix of local Alaskan history. It is very well narrated. They go out of their way to acknowledge former military personnel, which I deeply appreciated. I loved the narration about the Iditarod dog trainer and her dog, Granite. Her legacy still has a lasting effect on the community, and it was quite a sight to see her kennel with all the dogs in training. They are exceptional animals! Another major highlight was the Native village, with the salmon-smoking hut, examples of traditional handmade garments, and other ancillary structures. Learning how they survived the bitter winters, lived off the land, and made their lives in the tundra of Alaska was extraordinary. No exaggeration. I We loved the family history of the riverboat and the exceedingly friendly staff. The orchestration of events was perfect. They had a seaplane take off near us for instance. Super fun. It was such a wholesome adventure. It's hard to go wrong choosing the Riverboat Discovery!

We booked an afternoon discovery tour and didn't know what to expect. We arrived a tad early and explored the surrounding areas. Boarding information was shared over the PA system and on boarding went smoothly once pre-board passengers were taken care of. This boat is massive and there are three decks, along with several indoor and outdoor seating areas. We never felt crowded and could always find a comfy seat through out the several hours we were here. I won't spoil the discovery tour by sharing too many surprises, but suffice it to say, we were all incredibly impressed with the coordination, the collaboration, and the quality of this tour. What a super cool experience. Just when you thought the coolest parts were over, another one awaits you. Def add this to your list. It was incredibly well done, educational and local. WOW. Oh yeah, wear tour walking shoes, bring a wind jacket and def don't forget your camera.

See all photos from Wendy M. for Riverboat Discovery

Summary: This is simply the best excursion while in Fairbanks that include amazing sights, native culture, a unique dining experience. This was a well spent 3 hours. Experience: There are many components to this experience and I wish their was more time allowed at this site (part of princess cruise land tour) - Dining hall: We got a meal voucher from our tour bus driver, but he was clearly confused and thought we had to pay until the native guide came on the bus and told us she had vouchers for the boat and lunch. I can attest at least on this day you can ask for refills of the food but they try to limit waste and don't give too much each time. The hearty meat stew was mainly vegetables and if your luck to get the pot first most of the meat is in the first few ladles. The salad was amazingly refreshing. The dinner roll was dry and hard. Rustic vegetables was not the corn pictured but a mix of quinoa and root vegetables. Last the brownie was a hit! We did not have enough time to enjoy as we didn't get there until 13:20 and the boat was boarding at 13:45. - Stores/shops: very reasonably priced but we did not have any time to explore given our time limitations. They even have a free 40 below experience where you don't a parka and endure a blast of cold. Of course they take your picture and you can purchase it but we didn't have time to experience it - Riverboat your- Best experience here. Includes seeing a sea plane take off, watch dog sled racing around on land, visiting Chena living village where we learned of native culture by the descendants of Athabascans tribes. There is free blueberry donuts and coffee/water/tea. On return there are samples of salmon spread on crackers. The prices on board for food are very reasonable. Lastly the guide was very funny and informative. The tv screens and cameras allowed you to see all of the sights without leaving your seat. Service: Again super friendly staff wherever you go. I just wish our bus drive got us quicker to the location. Skye was an amazing tour guide through the village Tips (what I wish I knew before): Bring mosquito repellent to the village or you will be eaten alive! Don't be shy about asking for seconds if you didn't get enough food in the dining hall. Sit on the front left if you want a first hand view of the sled dog kennel and the right front if you want to see the sea plane take off. If it is hot sit outside because it is quite stuffy in the boat

See all photos from Nelson M. for Riverboat Discovery

This was a really fun tour! It's a more expensive thing, but it's worth the money. Anywhere you sit will be good, and there is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Indoor seating is heated. There's some different food counters to buy food, and they have free blueberry donuts and free salmon on crackers as well. The MC was engaging, and they gave video monitors too, with plenty of monitors to see things. They play some information video clips on there too. The bush pilot demonstration was neat! The dog mushing demonstration is cool too. The Native American village is very pretty and informative as well, and you'll get to meet the dogs and dog mushers there too! The gift shop is very solid too... they sell great high quality jackets for cheap! Plenty of parking is available, but there potholes on the road leading to the parking lot.

See all photos from Jonathan H. for Riverboat Discovery

Giant paddle boat tour is a must-do. Tour guide is hilarious. Tour includes sea-plane take-off, dog mushing demonstration, and demonstration village tour. Free blueberry donuts too!

We had a rocky start with the tour bus operators missing some information, but once we arrived at the Trading Post & Steamboat Landing, everything got easier. The Riverboat Company is a well oiled tourism machine that has been running this ship (literally) for a few generations! Food Options On Land at Trading Post: - Grab and go cold sandwich, chip, cookie, soda boxes $15 (can be taken on boat) - Sit down family style lunch service at trading post restaurant before/after getting on the boat $21 - Ice Cream or Salad at Coffee Cafe $5-$15 Food Options On Boat: - Complimentary Coffee, Tea, Water - Complimentary Blueberry Donuts (on ride out) - Complimentary Smoked Salmon Dip Sample & Wheat Thin (on return) - Reindeer Chili Bowl $5 - Reindeer Hot Dog $4.50 w/ Chili & Cheese $5.50 - Beef Hot Dog $3.50 w/ Chili & Cheese $4.50 - Chips & Candy $1.50 - Beer & Wine $3.50-$6 - Soda, Iced Tea, Lemonade, Hot Cocoa, Juice $1-$2 My tour operator included a lunch that I was unaware of, which meant I rushed to eat something at the hotel between the airport drop off and tour pick-up, not having any sense of what food might be available on or during the tour. Since I was already full from my crammed lunch, I went with the option to use my lunch ticket for a boxed lunch which I ended up saving later for dinner, since the boat included donuts, coffee, tea, and salmon samples to tide me over. If I didn't have an included lunch and wasn't already full, that reindeer chili or reindeer dog with chili & cheese on the boat looked and smelled very tasty, and would have been a more filling and hearty option than the boxed lunch! The Trading Post is a sort of catch all gift shop, cafe, restaurant to wander before or after the riverboat tour (but is most definitely part of the total experience) with some exhibits for photos and information if you look between the merchandise for the local gems of info and exhibit. The Riverboat has indoor and outdoor spaces for viewing the tour and highlights that can be utilized no matter the weather, with television screens to help bring the off-board scenery to you inside even if you aren't near a window- or are sitting on the wrong side of what is being mentioned- which is very convenient if you want to stay warm or simply indoors. The dog sled kennel is a river side demonstration where you stay on the ship and watch the demo live from the ship. The Chena native village demonstration happens off the boat and gives you time to walk around, stretch your legs, use a roomy modern bathroom, and see plenty of historic information on local survival. Some of the tour is also about the local architecture, families, and famous people of the town along the way, while riverside home families and pets rush to greet the boat with waving hands and barking dogs. Overall this was one of the best 3hr riverboat tours I've done in my lifetime, and I've done quite a few! Kudos to the family and the locals who participate and contribute to the tour! I hope they keep it going for many more generations ahead!

See all photos from Anne R. for Riverboat Discovery

"Big wheel keep on turnin' Proud Mary keep on burnin' And we're rollin' , rollin', Rollin' on the river" (Ike and Tina Turner) The Big Wheel on our riverboat kept turnin' as we rolled down the river on a three hour adventure that was equal parts of a boat ride, museum, seaplane take-off, flyover and landing, demonstration, dog mushing display at the Trail Breaker Kennel, a geography, history, and culture lesson, and so much more. We saw a team of sled dogs race around a course, a slew of reindeer appearing on cue, videos on fishing and native culture, and lessons on salmon smoking and preservation techniques. A highlight was our stop at a Chena Village Living Museum And cultural presentations on the indigenous Athabascan society. Our two young tour guides were fantastic and taught us about the different furs they used (mink, beaver, fox, mink), reindeer, caribou, and other wildlife, boat building, moose hunting, hide tanning, and native ceremonial clothing. The huge boat had a 900 person capacity spread over 3 levels. Complimentary coffee, donuts, and salmon spread with crackers were offered, The home base is Steamboat Landing and they have a big dining hall for a sit down lunch if you want to do that. Or if you care to purchase box lunches you can do that too. The ship does have snack bar for reasonably priced hot dogs and the like. Of course they also have a massive gift shop.

See all photos from Dan R. for Riverboat Discovery

By far better than any similar riverboat tour experience we've ever had. Every attention was paid to detail during almost every minute of our experience...from the excellent lunch at the dining hall before boarding...to the free blueberry donuts on board...to the superb and entertaining narration throughout the experience...to the many perfectly timed experiences to view off the boat such as the water plan take-off and landing, to the Iditarod dog racing demonstration, to the release of the caribou, as well as the stop at the Chena village. We loved every moment of this...we're never bored. it's far more than just a scenic relaxing cruise down the river. It's a deep dive into the history of the river, the native peoples, and the culture of the region. Definitely do this.

I thoroughly enjoyed this AMAZING three-hour riverboat tour of Fairbanks. From the customer service before and afterwards, to the narrated boat tour itself, to the stop at the native village (bring bug spray!), to the food and drink onboard, Discovery Riverboat Cruises did a phenomenal job of putting together a fun Alaskan experience. Here's some more detail: Before and after: ticketing was a snap, I got my ticket right before the sailing, and everything was fast and easy. They have a nice gift shop with clean restrooms (plus a small outdoor sitting area) for you to pass the time before boarding the boat. Afterwards, the main tour guide spent a lot of time talking to people and answering questions, which was really great. The boat ride: Loved all the seating options, from the indoor seating (great for colder/rainy weather) to the covered outdoor top deck (awesome views). There was plenty of space to spread out, and ample restrooms for everyone. The narration was great, including some personal stories that were interesting. The airplane demonstration (it flew right next to the boat!) and dog mushing were especially interesting. All in all, it was a super captivating ride that held my attention the entire time. The native village: lots to see and do, including salmon fishing and drying, farming (this was super interesting since Fairbanks is so far north), more dog mushing, and native life. There were also clean bathrooms on shore. Other than the *oppressive* mosquitos (bring bug spray), the time here was really fascinating and fun. Food and drink: the local donuts and coffee were a nice touch and delicious. So was the reasonably priced food and drink at the snack bar (had to get a reindeer sausage, which was tasty and cheaper than on shore). All in all, I would highly recommend this super interesting tour, which is not only really fun, but also a great value!

See all photos from Brian S. for Riverboat Discovery

Late Post Aug 23' Riverboat Discovery was an added land/tour excursion by Princess at our final destination in Fairbanks, Ak. The bus ride from Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge to Fairbanks, Ak was about 2 hours 15 mins with a stop in Nenana, Ak. (Nenana Artisan Market - Check out review) . We arrived to the home stop of the Riverboat Discovery where one can purchase souvenirs, drinks, soda, chips, boxed lunch, salmon jerky and, Harley Davidson stuff. We probably waited 45-1 hour before boarding, it was quite warm out so we decided on the 3rd level of the boat and decided to sit Dock side... (Our driver said that side was better but to be honest both sides were pretty sufficient) When we first got off the dock there was a float plane flying on the other side, it was hard to see, going back to seating doesn't matter... My partner and I love puppies and wanted to see and hear the story of Susan Butcher and Granite. Tekla, Susan's daughter gave us quick show and the dock side was best for the view. We also got to visit the Chena Village Living Museum where we saw how the native Alaskan Athabaskans lived. Overall, it was a nice addition to our excursion! I would highly recommend Riverboat Discovery if you are ever in Fairbanks! PACK OR BUY MOSQUITO REPELLANT (only if you are wearing shorts and T Shirts)- use it prior to getting off at Chena Village, you'll thank be later!

See all photos from Tawny V. for Riverboat Discovery

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Riverboat Discovery: Review and Tips for Chena River Cruise

The Riverboat Discovery Cruise in Fairbanks is a must-do experience if you want to explore the heart of Alaska. This three-hour journey down the Chena River offers a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the region. You’ll witness the excitement of a floatplane taking off, learn about the storied legacy of dog mushing at Trail Breaker Kennels, and step back in time at the Chena Indian Village. In this article, I’ll share our personal experience on this iconic cruise. I’ll also give you practical tips to help you make the most of your trip.

Table of Contents

Our Personal Experience on the Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks

Our experience on the Riverboat Discovery Cruise was truly a highlight of our last trip. We included this cruise in our Fairbanks itinerary , which was one of the most memorable parts of our journey. The mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery made it a must-do activity.

After our unforgettable experience on this scenic riverboat cruise and local village tour , I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to explore Fairbanks and learn about Last Frontier’s history. We paid for this tour ourselves, and this is not a sponsored post. We’re sharing our honest, personal opinions.

From the moment we set sail, we were captivated by the Alaskan landscape and the fascinating demonstrations along the way. This cruise is one of the best and most unique things to do in Fairbanks . The floatplane demonstration was thrilling, and seeing the dogs at Trail Breaker Kennels was both heartwarming and inspiring. The highlight for us, though, was the visit to the Chena Indian Village, where we got an up-close look at the rich Athabascan culture and even spotted some reindeer.

Chris particularly enjoyed the float plane demonstration. We often use bush planes during our Alaska road trips, so seeing one in action right next to the boat was a thrill for him. It brought back memories of our own adventures flying over Alaska’s vast wilderness, including the Brooks Range , and a scenic flight over Denali .

For me, the best parts were meeting the Alaskan huskies and exploring the Chena Indian Village. The Huskies were full of energy, and learning about their training for the Iditarod was inspiring. The village offered a deep dive into the Athabascan culture, allowing me to connect with Alaska’s rich history meaningfully.

Overall, we found the Riverboat Discovery to be one of the best tours in Fairbanks, right up there with gold panning at Gold Dredge 8 and the Arctic Circle tours . The combination of these experiences offers a well-rounded view of Fairbanks and is something we highly recommend to anyone visiting the area.

Location And Driving Direction

The Riverboat Discovery is located at Steamboat Landing, just a short drive from downtown Fairbanks . The address is 1975 Discovery Drive, Fairbanks, Alaska 99709 .

If you’re driving, it’s about a 10-minute drive from downtown Fairbanks or a 5-minute drive from Fairbanks International Airport. Here are general directions:

• From Downtown Fairbanks: Head west on Airport Way. Turn right onto Peger Road, then left onto Phillips Field Road. Finally, turn right onto Discovery Drive, and follow the signs to the Riverboat Discovery parking area.
• From Fairbanks International Airport: Take Airport Way eastbound. Turn left onto Dale Road, then right onto Hoselton Road. Continue on Hoselton until it turns into Discovery Drive, and follow the signs to the Riverboat Discovery parking area.

There’s plenty of free parking available at Steamboat Landing, right near the boarding area. Parking is convenient and just a short walk from the boat. Below, you can check availability and book your river cruise:

What to Expect on the Riverboat Discovery Cruise

When you step aboard the Riverboat Discovery, you’re in for a one-of-a-kind adventure that showcases the best of Fairbanks and its rich history. The cruise lasts about three hours and is packed with unique experiences that highlight the traditions and lifestyles of Alaska’s interior.

Float Plane Demonstration

Right after departure, you’ll witness a floatplane take off and land on the Chena River. This demonstration is a nod to Alaska’s bush pilots, who rely on these planes for transportation in remote areas. The pilot communicates with the ship’s captain, giving you an insider’s view of how these planes operate in Alaska’s rugged terrain.

Trail Breaker Kennels

Next, the boat stops at Trail Breaker Kennels, home to the late Susan Butcher, a four-time Iditarod champion. Here, you’ll learn about the world of dog mushing. You’ll see the huskies in action and hear stories about Susan Butcher’s legacy. Sometimes, you even get to meet the puppies. It’s a highlight of the cruise for many.

Chena Indian Village Tour

Midway through the cruise, you’ll get off the boat for a tour of the Chena Indian Village (not to be confused with Chena Hot Springs ). This tour offers a fascinating look into the Athabascan culture. The village itself is a living museum, where guides, often descendants of the original settlers, lead you through traditional log cabins. They show you how the Athabascan people have lived in Alaska for thousands of years.

During the tour, you’ll see demonstrations of how salmon is smoked and preserved, learn about their crafts, and gain insights into their way of life. One of the highlights is seeing the reindeer that roam the village. These reindeer, also known as caribou in Alaska, are an important part of Athabascan culture. The guides explain their significance and how these animals have been essential for food, clothing, and tools.

This stop is not just educational but also immersive, giving you a real sense of the heritage and traditions that have shaped life in Alaska’s interior for centuries.

Scenic Views and Relaxing Atmosphere

As the boat continues down the Chena River, take in the stunning views of the Alaskan wilderness. Whether you’re on the open deck or inside the cabin, the scenery is peaceful and captivating. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of Alaska. During the cruise, you can enjoy complimentary donuts and hot coffee. It’s a simple pleasure that makes the journey even more enjoyable.

Tips for Preparing for the Riverboat Discovery Cruise

Preparing for the Riverboat Discovery Cruise is simple, but a few tips can help you make the most of your experience. Here’s what you need to know:

What to Wear

Fairbanks weather can be unpredictable, even during summer. Dress in layers so you can adjust as temperatures change. Mornings might be cool, and afternoons can warm up quickly. Bringing a light jacket or raincoat is a good idea. While the cruise is generally calm, a light breeze can make it feel cooler, especially on the open deck. Check out our tips and list on what to pack for vacation in Alaska , based on years of exploring the Last Frontier.

Booking and Costs

The Riverboat Discovery Cruise is popular, so booking your tickets in advance is wise, especially during peak tourist season. If traveling with a group, coordinating bookings ensures everyone is on the same cruise. Below, you can enter your trip date and book your tour:

Seasonal Operation

Chena River cruise in Fairbanks operates during the summer months, from May through September. These months are ideal for exploring Fairbanks due to the Midnight Sun, which offers extended daylight for activities. Check out the official website for detailed dates of operation.

Arrive Early

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the cruise starts. This gives you time to check in, explore the boat, and find a good seat. With many guests aboard, arriving early helps ensure you get the spot you want, whether on the open deck or inside the comfortable cabin.

Before or after your cruise, take some time to visit the gift shop at Steamboat Landing. The shop offers a wide variety of Alaskan souvenirs, including unique gifts and local crafts. It’s a great place to pick up a memento of your Riverboat Discovery experience or find gifts for friends and family back home.

Food and Drink

While onboard, enjoy complimentary blueberry donuts and hot coffee, which add a cozy touch to the cruise. If you’re looking for more substantial snacks or beverages, they are available for purchase on the boat. Make sure you have some cash or a card if you plan to buy anything.

Accessibility

The Riverboat Discovery is accessible to most visitors, including those with mobility challenges. If you or someone in your group uses a wheelchair, it’s helpful to inform the staff so they can assist with boarding and seating arrangements.

Riverboat Discovery: Final Thoughts

The Riverboat Discovery Cruise offers an experience that’s truly unique to Fairbanks. It combines adventure, education, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re watching a bush plane take off beside the boat, meeting Alaskan huskies, or exploring the rich culture of the Athabascan people at the Chena Indian Village, every moment on this cruise is packed with something special.

We highly recommend this tour for families with kids, as it’s both engaging and educational. It’s also perfect for those interested in Alaska’s heritage and history, offering a deep dive into the traditions and stories that have shaped the region. For first-time visitors to Alaska, this river cruise is an excellent introduction to the state’s unique culture and stunning landscapes.

If you like to learn about Alaska’s history, make sure to visit the Museum of the North and Morris Thompson Cultural Center in Fairbanks.

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Agnes Stabinska is the creative force and co-founder behind the Alaska Itinerary blog. With a degree in Tourism Management and postgraduate studies in Journalism, Agnes combines academic expertise with real-world experience. Alongside her partner, Chris, she's your go-to guide for an authentic Alaskan adventure.

Agnes doesn't just write about Alaska; she lives it. From capturing the state's breathtaking landscapes through her lens to hiking its rugged trails or observing bears and whales in their natural habitat, her firsthand experiences are your compass to all things Alaska.

With Agnes and Chris, you're not just reading another travel blog; you're tapping into a treasure trove of insider tips, curated itineraries, and invaluable insights to make your Alaskan journey truly unforgettable.

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