Coastal Resources

Departure of SS United States from Philly to Alabama delayed

Tropical disturbance in Gulf of Mexico and coordination of multiple agencies prompt Okaloosa County to postpone historic ocean liner's planned November 15 move to Mobile, Alabama.

Jared Williams

The SS United States’ departure from its Philadelphia berth has been postponed due to weather concerns and logistical challenges, Okaloosa County officials announced Tuesday.

The historic ocean liner was scheduled to leave Pier 82 on November 15, but officials are monitoring a tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico that could affect the vessel’s safe delivery to Mobile, Alabama.

“Like most large, multi-faceted operations, this move involves coordination with multiple agencies and dates, times, and other logistics are subject to change to make certain the vessel is moved safely,” county officials said in a press release.

No new departure date has been officially set for the 990-foot vessel.

The delay affects the first phase of transforming America’s fastest ocean liner into what will become the world’s largest artificial reef. Once in Mobile, the vessel will undergo a 12-month preparation process, including removal of hazardous materials, non-metal parts, and fuel to ensure environmentally safe deployment. Workers will also modify the ship to ensure it lands upright underwater.

Plans still call for the vessel to be placed approximately 20 miles south of the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area, though an exact location hasn’t been determined.

As part of the overall project, Okaloosa County will partner with the SS United States Conservancy to develop a land-based museum and visitor center in Destin-Fort Walton Beach. The museum will incorporate signature features from America’s Flagship, including its iconic funnels and radar mast, along with the Conservancy’s extensive curatorial and archival collection to commemorate the vessel’s storied history.

The public can follow the ship’s journey via GPS tracking at www.destinfwb.com/explore/eco-tourism/ssus.

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