DEEPHAVEN — The Lake Minnetonka Historical Society is inviting the community to celebrate Deephaven’s 125th anniversary with a summer evening cruise rich in stories, scenery, and local legacy.
On Monday, July 14, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., guests will board the Lady of the Lake in Excelsior for a two-hour narrated journey through St. Louis Bay. The cruise marks a major milestone for Deephaven, founded in 1899, and offers a fresh way to connect with the city’s past—while enjoying cool breezes and beautiful lake views.
Local historians Joanie Holst and Jeff Magnuson will anchor the evening’s storytelling, highlighting the evolution of Deephaven from its early days to its present-day identity. Topics will include the founding of the Minnetonka Yacht Club—one of the oldest inland yacht clubs in the U.S.—and the enduring charm of the Cottagewood neighborhood, once a summer colony for Minneapolis families.
Also aboard will be underwater explorer Kelly Nehowig and filmmaker Bob Nye, who will offer a preview of their documentary work exploring what lies beneath St. Louis Bay. From sunken artifacts to the remains of the Hotel St. Louis and the Deephaven Depot, the duo will share new discoveries that connect past to present in powerful ways.
The Lady of the Lake cruise departs from the charter dock behind Tommy’s Tonka Trolley (8 Water Street / 379 Lake Street) in downtown Excelsior. Boarding begins at 5:45 p.m., with departure at 6:00 sharp. The cruise will proceed rain or shine—if weather conditions prevent sailing, presentations will be held dockside until it is safe to embark.
Tickets are $22.50 for LMHS members and $37.50 for the general public, plus ticket fees. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase on board. Seating is limited, and tickets are expected to sell out quickly.
To learn more or reserve your place, visit the Lake Minnetonka Historical Society’s website at www.lakeminnetonkahistory.org.
