Historic SS United States Begins Journey to Become World’s Largest Artificial Reef

The 1,000-foot ocean liner, famed for its transatlantic speed record, will be sunk off Florida’s Gulf Coast after extensive preparations.

The SS United States, a 1,000-foot ocean liner launched in 1952, is being repurposed as the world’s largest artificial reef off Florida’s Gulf Coast.
The ship recently completed the first leg of its final voyage, arriving in Mobile, Alabama, for a year-long cleaning and preparation process.
Okaloosa County officials aim to create a major diving attraction that could boost local tourism, generating millions annually for the region.
The vessel, which still holds the transatlantic speed record, will be thoroughly cleaned of contaminants to ensure environmental safety before being sunk.
Artificial reefs like this project are increasingly used to support marine biodiversity, addressing the impacts of coral bleaching and ocean pollution.