The Binkley family, now in its fourth generation of riverboat pilots, runs Riverboat Discovery Cruises (907/479-6673 or 866/479-6673, www.riverboatdiscovery.com [1], $54 adults, $38 ages 3–12, younger children free). This 3.5-hour 20-mile cruise on the Chena and Tanana Rivers—a bargain—includes the chance to view an Athabascan-style camp, to watch a floatplane take off, and to see dogs from the late Susan Butcher’s team in action (from the boat).
Reservations are necessary. Cruises depart from the dock at the end of Dale Road near the airport at 8:45 a.m. and 2 p.m. mid-May–mid-September. A large gift shop awaits if you get there early.
The Tanana Chief (907/452-8687 or 866/452-8687, www.greatlandrivertours.com [2]), is a smaller paddle-wheel boat with two-hour summertime sightseeing trips ($25), along with prime rib dinner cruises ($50), and Sunday brunch cruises ($37).
Links:
[1] http://www.riverboatdiscovery.com
[2] http://www.greatlandrivertours.com