The SS United States is resting upright on the Gulf floor, according to a photo taken Thursday, Nov. 12, the day after the ship sank about 22 nautical miles southwest of Destin-Fort Walton Beach.
- Divers Will Hinton and Rustin Cassway were the first to dive the SS United States since her sinking. Cassway, of RV Explorer, photographed Hinton alongside the ship’s stern, which sits level with the lettering “United” and “New York” still visible across it.
Landing upright was a goal from the start of the project. When the county announced the ship’s departure from Philadelphia in 2024, it said modifications would be made during her preparation in Mobile, Alabama, to ensure she lands upright underwater.
Sonar readings taken shortly after the sinking Wednesday night found the top of the ship about 50 feet below the surface. That depth is consistent with a ship about 130 feet tall resting upright in about 180 feet of water. If she were on her side, the top would sit closer to 80 feet down, since the ship is 101 feet wide.
Okaloosa County Natural Resources Chief Alex Fogg has said the ship’s upper decks would sit about 50 to 55 feet below the surface, making her accessible to divers of all skill levels.
The 990-foot ocean liner sank around 9 p.m. Wednesday, becoming the world’s largest artificial reef.
One Response
What a wonderful conclusion! Thanks guys for being the adventurers today, what an honor. Can’t wait to dive her!