MANITOWOC, Wis. — You can call it a hotel. You can call it an Airbnb. You can call it whatever you want as long as you include the phrase 'one of the most unique overnight experiences in Wisconsin.'
The USSCobia, a decommissioned World War II submarine at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc, is allowing people to do overnight stays on the historic vessel. It's basically one of the coolest Airbnb's in the state.
In total, the sub can sleep 65 people. That makes it great for large parties or overnight field trips. Believe it or not, the entire submarine has been rented out before. There are options to have private parties or do educational trips for students. Here is the AirBnB listing.
The ship actually fought in multiple battles during World War II. It was bombed, rammed, and shot at. There are still bullet dents in the body of the ship. During one instance, the submarine sunk to the bottom of the ocean floor off the coast of Thailand. For a moment, the crew thought it would be stuck down there. However, after trying to few manuervers, the submarine was able to get itself moving again and the crew made it out.
While this submarine wasn't built in Manitowoc (it was built in Connecticut) it's identical to the 28 that were built here during the war effort.
Included in the stay is a personalized tour of the submarine, all bedding and toiletries are provided, and a light breakfast. For private parties, it costs $500 for five people and then each additional person is $50. For educational overnight stays, it's $50 per person. During these overnight stays you will get to do various reenactments like diving and resurfacing simulations.
The USS Cobia was restored to resemble its 1945 appearance. While it is no longer active, it serves as a tribute to the men and women who built it and the sailors who went to war on it.
If you want to schedule an overnight stay, reach out to the museum by calling the phone number at (920) 374 4003 or visiting their website.
