I’m making the bold claim that the Riverboat Discovery cruise is the best value in Fairbanks. I was impressed start to finish. We skipped it on our last visit, because it seemed like just a short ride up the river. We come from Mississippi River country and have been on our share of river boats over the years.But this time, a ride was arranged for us and we happily went along.

It was cold, but we picked seats outside on the top deck anyway. A little cold mist never hurt anyone. It is the only way to enjoy the water. I immediately noticed a large digital monitor at the front of the seating area. I didn’t have too much time to wonder what it was for before they served us hot coffee and warm blueberry donuts. Let’s be honest, at that point I was putty in their hands.

While I was still happily sipping my coffee a sea plane began making take offs and landings next to our boat. The large screen in front of my face came alive with a live stream of the pilot. He wished us good morning in real time and explained the importance of the sea plane in remote Alaska. He also did a few more take offs and landings to the delight of the tourists, while he explained the technique.

Residents stepped out of houses along the river to wave as the boat floated past. Suddenly we stopped beside a large kennel. The big screen came on again and we chatted with Tekla Butcher-Monson, daughter of the famous Susan Butcher (the first woman to win the Iditarod). She owns the The trail breaker kennel, and they pulled out all the stops. They showed us puppies and even had a live sled dog demonstration run. Of course all of it was projected on the big screen so we didn’t miss a thing. My head was on a swivel watching on the bank and then the screen. It was a pleasure to hear her story and see the dogs.

Further along, the family that owns the boat talked about running the operation and growing up in the family business. It seemed to be a generational family affair.

Caribou came running out of the forest just before we reached a native village (recreated of course). They are pets and we eventually got to see them up close and personal. But what a delightful surprise.

I noticed a large fish wheel and a salmon smokehouse but we sailed right on by. A native guide waved as we passed. I thought we were stopping. I was confused.

Then we were suddenly into the river’s confluence with the Tenana River. The water was two different colors, making a dramatic contrast. Just as we entered the merging water, we reversed course and stopped at the village after all.

At the village, we exited the boat and two native Alaskans took us on a tour explaining native culture and history. We learned about the importance of caribou and other game. The young lady modeled a full winter fur coat. It was astonishing.

We toured cabins and took pictures with a stuffed moose. Every fifteen minutes or so we would rotate locations and be told more stories. Time passed quickly.

We opted to walk to the back section and play with the sled dogs. They were active and loved the attention. But before long the boat whistle blasted and we had to head back on board.

On the return, the boat slowly made its way upstream. This time, we were served a salmon spread. It was delicious! This trip just kept getting better. Top notch service, seamless narration, attention to detail, interesting topics that were informative and not gimmicky… I can’t say enough good things.

Back at the dock, we disembarked and headed into the dining hall for a catered lunch. We feasted on thick stew and homemade bread. We also made a few new Australian friends over a shared pot of stew.

Afterwards, as I perused the gift shop, my husband decided he should visit the forty below room. He entered and experienced the extreme cold. He is crazy like that. I took his picture from the balmy 60 degree exterior. Turns out the Riverboat Discovery had a little something for everyone. I only wish we had been smart enough to experience it sooner.