'Deep Thought' set to sail, by crane, after months stranded on Milwaukee lakefront

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- After more than six months stranded along Milwaukee’s lakefront, the abandoned boat known as “Deep Thought” is finally set to be removed on Tuesday, May 6.

The operation will necessitate a temporary closure of Lincoln Memorial Drive between Lafayette Hill Road and E. Water Tower Road from 8 a.m. to approximately 4 p.m. Detours will be posted, and parking restrictions will begin Monday evening; vehicles in violation may be towed.

Since washing ashore between McKinley and Bradford beaches on October 13, 2024, after its owners ran out of fuel, “Deep Thought” has become an unexpected fixture on the shoreline. Over the past six months, it has drawn curious onlookers, served as a backdrop for photoshoots, and even inspired a mock funeral.

Multiple removal attempts have failed. In one instance, a barge brought in to assist became stuck itself, compounding the challenge. Now, Milwaukee-based All City Towing has been contracted to carry out the removal using three cranes positioned on land.

District 3 County Supervisor Sheldon Wasserman emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “It’s an environmental hazard, it’s a safety hazard. It’s a health hazard. It’s problems. People are going to be attracted there, people are going to fall on the rocks, they’re going to fall on the boat, they’re going to drown—something bad is going to happen. It’s a nuisance and it’s got to go.”

The removal is estimated to cost $50,000, with Milwaukee County initially covering the expense.

Weather and lake conditions could impact the schedule; Milwaukee County Parks will provide updates as needed. Visitors to the lakefront on Tuesday are advised to plan alternate routes and adhere to posted detours