After traveling 1,800 nautical miles from Philadelphia, the SS United States has reached Mobile, Alabama, where Okaloosa County will begin the process of transforming the historic vessel into the world’s largest artificial reef.
- The 990-foot ship, which holds the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing by an ocean liner, will spend the next six to 12 months being prepared for its new underwater role.
“We are proud to continue the story of this historic vessel as an artificial reef along with the land-based museum,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. “I applaud the Destin-Fort Walton Beach team in their efforts to succeed in this important next step.”
The preparation work includes removing all non-metal items, wiring and fuel to ensure environmental safety. Working with the Department of Environmental Protection and Environmental Protection Agency, crews will cut strategic holes around the ship to ensure it lands upright when submerged. Additional passages will be created to allow marine life to move freely through the structure.
Once deployed about 20 nautical miles south of Destin-Fort Walton Beach, the artificial reef will sit in approximately 180 feet of water, with its upper deck about 55 feet below the surface. This range of depths will accommodate divers of varying experience levels, from beginners to technical divers.
In its new role, the vessel will provide habitat for grouper, snapper, mackerel, tuna and numerous other marine species, benefiting both recreational divers and the regional fishing industry.
Okaloosa County will continue to partner with the SS United States Conservancy to develop a land-based museum and visitor center in Destin-Fort Walton Beach that will preserve the ship’s legacy.
Information about what to expect over the next year can be found here.
