The abandoned sailboat “Deep Thought,” stranded on Milwaukee’s lakefront for eight months, has prompted a new legislative proposal to address vessel abandonment across Wisconsin. The bill, inspired by this incident and a similar case on the St. Croix River, requires owners to remove abandoned boats within 30 days or face penalties, with repeat offenders mandated to complete a boating safety course.

Incident Details

In October 2024, “Deep Thought” broke loose during high winds near McKinley Beach. The U.S. Coast Guard confirmed no passengers or fuel were aboard. Owners Richard and Sherry Wells, inexperienced navigators from Mississippi, faced challenges during a storm, leading to the boat grounding south of McKinley Marina. Removal by All City Towing and Pirates Cove Diving, using 250-ton cranes, cost Milwaukee County up to $50,000, which officials aim to recover from the owners.

Legislative Goals

The proposed law seeks to prevent taxpayer-funded cleanups by enforcing owner accountability. County Supervisor Sheldon Wasserman emphasized that local taxpayers should not bear such costs, highlighting the need for clear regulations. The bill also aims to streamline coordination between state and local agencies for future incidents.

Public and Policy Impact

The “Deep Thought” saga, initially a local curiosity, underscores gaps in current laws. The legislation could enhance Wisconsin’s shoreline management, protect public funds, and encourage responsible boating practices, potentially setting a model for other states.