After an abrupt shutdown in May, the historic Sistersville Ferry is charting a new course forward with a fresh face at the helm. Longtime captain Bo Hause, who piloted the beloved vessel for years, has returned temporarily. He won’t be on board to stay, but to pass the wheel to the next generation.

The ferry board moved quickly after the unexpected closure, scrambling to find a licensed pilot who could get the ferry back on the water. That search led them to Kevin Bunner, a seasoned mariner with years of experience in the riverboat cruise industry. Bunner is now training under Captain Hause, who’s sharing his deep knowledge of the Ohio River and the unique quirks of navigating the Sistersville route.

The Sistersville Ferry, one of the last of its kind on the Ohio River, is not just transportation. It’s a piece of living history. Bowden says the board is hopeful the ferry will resume operation and even offer public cruises again in the near future.

For now, all eyes are on the river and on Captain Bunner, as he learns the ropes from a local legend. Welcome aboard, Captain Bunner.