Historic SS United States Set to Become the World's Largest Artificial Reef

Florida is set to gain the world’s largest artificial reef on Nov. 12, when Okaloosa County plans to deploy the 990-foot SS United States to a new resting place in the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 22 nautical miles southwest of Destin-Fort Walton Beach in Florida’s Panhandle. According to Visit Florida’s media release, the proposed deployment location is 30° 07.148' N, 86° 46.755' W.

“This will be a historic day for Destin-Fort Walton Beach and for a ship with such a historic story,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Trey Goodwin. “Her story will continue to be told by thousands of people who visit her in tandem with the SS United States Conservancy’s land-based museum.”

The vessel has been based in Mobile, Alabama, where it has undergone extensive environmental remediation and preparation for its final deployment. The work included cleaning all 128 fuel and lubricant tanks, removing potentially hazardous materials, and stripping the vessel of wiring, ventilation systems, and exterior paint to ensure it meets regulatory requirements for an artificial reef. More than 200 samples were also collected as part of the environmental assessment.

The ship’s distinctive funnels, radar mast, and propeller have been removed and preserved, along with other artifacts, for the planned land-based museum.

The SS United States will be towed to the deployment site in advance. Weather permitting, she will be sunk on Nov. 12, with operations scheduled to begin at 10 a.m.

A live viewing party is planned at AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar in Destin starting at 9 a.m., with an outdoor screen set up for viewers. A livestream will also be available through the SS United States website.

Launched in 1952, the SS United States was the largest passenger liner ever built in the United States. On her maiden voyage, she set the transatlantic speed record, crossing from New York to Europe in three days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes. She continues to hold the Blue Riband for the fastest passenger liner crossing of the Atlantic.

As the world's largest artificial reef, the vessel is expected to provide a habitat for marine life, create a premier diving destination, and contribute to the local and regional fishery. According to Visit Florida, the reef project was fully funded through tourism revenue and contributions from multiple partners.

Read more about the SS United States in our previous coverage.