MANITOWOC, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — After five months of being closed due to the pandemic, a popular Lakeside attraction is once again, open for business.
The Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc welcomed its first guests Friday morning, and by many accounts, the first day was very busy with customers.
It was the first time people took to the deck of the submarine USS Cobia since October. That’s when COVID-19 concerns halted tours, and closed the facility.
“Today, we’re reopening the museum to the public, which we’re pretty excited about,” said Emily Shedal, Wisconsin Maritime Museum Development Coordinator.
Shedal says increased vaccinations, and lower coronavirus numbers led to the move, but there are protocols.
“We still do have masks required, even if you are vaccinated. We have cleaning policies in place as well. So we regularly go through the museum and clean any high-touched spots,” she said.
Shedal says social distancing is encouraged throughout the museum exhibits, and there are new rules for the submarine tour too.
“Masks are required for the submarine tour as well. Air purifiers are on the submarine so it’s cleaning the air while you’re on there,” she said.
Shedal says tours will be limited to 12 people, which is half the number typically allowed.
“And we encourage guests to purchase their tickets ahead of time for those tours to ensure that you have a spot, since it is a limited number of people,” she said.
Chuck and Angie Eberhardt and their two boys drove from Muskego on Friday, and ended up being the first inside.
“I’ve been waiting. I’ve been checking every day for months, seriously, to see when this place was opening,” said Chuck Eberhardt, Muskego.
“Absolutely worth the trip. Two-hour drive, nothing like I’ve ever seen before. Can’t wait to go inside the sub and see what that’s like,” said Angie Eberhardt, Muskego.
The Wisconsin Maritime Museum will be open four days a week, Thursday through Sunday, from 10 a.m., to 5 p.m., until further notice.
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