Commissioners Hear Plans Concerning the Future of the Lorena

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum County Commissioners listened to details concerning one of the County’s most iconic attractions, the Lorena Sternwheeler.  

Zanesville-Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce Vice President Kelly Ashby shared some of the discussion about the 2023 season, such as attendance and revenues, along with how the popular, historical attraction plays a role in today’s economy.

“It was a wonderful season for the sternwheeler,” Ashby said. “We had a great turnout. We always have out-of-town guests that come in and truly enjoy the Lorena sternwheeler. And we also noticed that when we offer activities for families and children, those seem to be definitely the times that ridership is really up for the sternwheeler. So we look forward to doing more story time, more characters, more themed cruises in 2024 that children and families can enjoy.”

The City of Zanesville, Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the county have partnered to share the expenses that keep the ship afloat as well as coordinating themed cruises that most resonate with the passengers. 

“This year was a fabulous, easy way to get tickets for the Lorena sternwheeler,” Ashby said. “Fortunately we have a great staff at the CVB and they came up with the idea to do everything online. So we use an online ticketing system that worked extremely well for us and for the Lorena sternwheeler. So you go right onto visitzanesville.com. There is a link. That link takes you to show you all of the rides that are available, the cost of those rides.”

Many last-minute conditions, such as water levels, mechanical operation, and weight limits can factor into whether the vessel can safely depart but Ashby noted that many plans are in the works for the 2024 season.