A Majestic Ocean Liner’s New Chapter: The SS United States to Be Sunk as World’s Largest Artificial Reef
SS United States, once a beacon of American inventiveness and speed, is abruptly entering the Gulf of Mexico near Florida. The almost 1,000-foot ship is becoming the world’s largest artificial reef after decades of uncertainty, helping tourists and the ecology.
This year, a large ship was moved from Philadelphia’s Delaware River to Mobile, Alabama. Team members remove chemicals, wires, plastic, glass, and other hazards before submerging the vessel.
Restoration and relocation of the $1 million ship in Okaloosa County, Florida, cost $10.1 million. The regional agreement donates Visit Pensacola $1.5 million and Coastal Conservation Association Florida $500,000. The money will support a multi-year marketing campaign to promote the ship as a top diving destination once deployed.
SS United States will sink early 2026 22 nautical miles southwest of Destin East Pass and 32 southeast of Pensacola Pass. Beginner and experienced divers can access the ship’s upper decks 60 feet (18 meters) below the surface.
The scope goes beyond tourism. Reefing the SS United States improves marine habitat. Joins 500 Okaloosa County artificial reefs. County officials hope this will boost marine biodiversity and Northwest Florida diving and fishing.
Land-based museums will preserve the ship’s remarkable history. Storytelling showcases will use SS United States funnels, radar masts, and other originals.
This undersea feature honors a 1952 trans-Atlantic speed record holder, notable passenger, and American innovator. Marine life will retreat and history buffs will visit its final resting place, symbolizing rebirth.
Sources:
AP News / WLRN reporting
County financial report / budget documents
WUWF coverage of fundinga
