Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Como
- Type: Passenger Vessel
- Year Built: 1906
- Builder:
- Dimensions: 70 ft (21.34 m) X 15 ft (4.57 m); Depth: 5 ft (1.52 m)
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 15.24 m / 50 ft
- Location: Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota
- Coordinates: N 44°56.408′, W 93°33.178′
- Official Number: None
- Original Owners: Twin City Rapid Transit (TCRT)
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Passenger Vessel
Description
The Como is one of the better-preserved wrecks among the TCRT boats. Key features of the site include an intact and upright wooden hull, forward and aft decks, a visible ventilator cowl on the aft deck, and two bitts present on-site. The superstructure was removed prior to its scuttling and is not present. Visibility is best during winter months under the ice or in early spring. However, high-speed recreational boating during the summer season poses risks to divers.
History
The Como was one of the passenger vessels operated by the Twin City Rapid Transit (TCRT) as part of their streetcar boat fleet, designed to transport passengers across Lake Minnetonka. These vessels were integral to connecting communities around the lake during the early 20th century, offering both transit and recreational opportunities. The Como ceased operations in 1926 and was deliberately scuttled in Lake Minnetonka after the decline in use of the TCRT Express boats due to the rise of automobiles and changes in urban transportation.
Significant Incidents
- The Como was scuttled in 1926 after ceasing operations.
Final Disposition
The Como was scuttled in Lake Minnetonka in 1926, marking its transition from a passenger vessel to a submerged cultural resource.
Current Condition & Accessibility
Divers should exercise caution during the peak boating season due to high-speed recreational boat traffic, which may reduce safety and visibility. Diving under the ice or early in the spring offers the best conditions for viewing the wreck.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”como” title=”References & Links”]
Use the provided GPS coordinates for mapping or dive planning. It is advisable to consult local authorities or experienced dive operators familiar with the lake and seasonal conditions for a safe and enjoyable dive.
Legacy Notes & Full Historical Record
This section preserves the original unedited Shotline content for this wreck so that no historical detail is lost as we transition to the new logbook format.
Identification & Site Information:
- Name(s): Como
- Registry: US
- Official Number: None
- Vessel Type: Passenger Vessel
- Year Built: 1906
- Year Sank: 1926
- Hull Material: Wood
- Engines: None
Dimensions:
- Length: 70 ft (21.34 m)
- Width: 15 ft (4.57 m)
- Depth: 5 ft (1.52 m)
Vessel History:
The Como was one of the passenger vessels operated by the Twin City Rapid Transit (TCRT) as part of their streetcar boat fleet, designed to transport passengers across Lake Minnetonka. These vessels were integral to connecting communities around the lake during the early 20th century, offering both transit and recreational opportunities. The Como ceased operations in 1926 and was deliberately scuttled in Lake Minnetonka after the decline in use of the TCRT Express boats due to the rise of automobiles and changes in urban transportation. More detailed history and context can be found in the following resources:
• Wrecks and Submerged Cultural Resources of Lake Minnetonka
• When the Twin Cities Had Streetcar Boats.
Wreck Site Information:
- Location: Lake Minnetonka
- State/Province: Minnesota
- Depth: 50 ft (15.24 m)
- GPS Coordinates: N 44°56.408′, W 93°33.178′
- Site Description:
The Como is one of the better-preserved wrecks among the TCRT boats. Key features of the site include:
- An intact and upright wooden hull.
- The forward and aft decks are intact.
- A ventilator cowl is visible on the aft deck.
- Two bitts are present on-site.
- The superstructure was removed prior to its scuttling and is not present.
- Visibility is best during winter months under the ice or in early spring. However, high-speed recreational boating during the summer season poses risks to divers.
Notmars & Advisories:
Divers should exercise caution during the peak boating season due to high-speed recreational boat traffic, which may reduce safety and visibility. Diving under the ice or early in the spring offers the best conditions for viewing the wreck.
Resources & Links:
3D Model – Como
Keywords:
Como, TCRT Express Boats, Streetcar Boats, Lake Minnetonka, Passenger Vessel, Scuttled, Shipwreck, Minnesota.
Use the provided GPS coordinates for mapping or dive planning. It is advisable to consult local authorities or experienced dive operators familiar with the lake and seasonal conditions for a safe and enjoyable dive.
como 1926-03-14 07:54:00