STOW – The Bemus Point–Stowe Ferry on Chautauqua Lake is once again in operation. On Friday, officials held a grand opening for the ferry, which had to wait to begin service this year because it failed to meet certain state regulations for water vessels. They involved the need for an anchor, an electric horn and automatic sump pumps with an alarm system in each of the seven containers keeping the barge afloat. A spokesman for the ferry said if it wasn’t for all the volunteers and businesses who donated parts and labor so the vessel could meet standards, the ferry might not have gained state approval to run.
The first trip across the narrows of Chautauqua Lake by way of a Ferry was in 1811. The ferry has been in near continuous operation since it was first operated and is now considered an historic vessel and tourism attraction.
The hours of the ferry are 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, 1 to 9 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 6 or 8:30 p.m. Sunday. The ferry is free to ride, with donations accepted for the trip.
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