Coastal Resources

Okaloosa County to deploy SS United States as world’s largest artificial reef on Nov. 12

Okaloosa County will deploy the 990-foot SS United States as the world's largest artificial reef Nov. 12, with a public sendoff ceremony on Nov. 11.

Jared Williams

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Okaloosa County will deploy the 990-foot SS United States ocean liner as the world’s largest artificial reef on Thursday, Nov. 12, weather permitting, in the Gulf about 22 nautical miles southwest of Destin-Fort Walton Beach.

The ship still holds the record for the fastest ocean liner, set in 1952, according to the county. As an artificial reef, the county said, it will become home to numerous species of marine life, provide a premier diving destination and contribute to the local and regional fishery.

“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 will be towed from its location in Mobile, Alabama, to the deployment site days in advance. Deployment operations are scheduled to begin at the site at 10 a.m. Nov. 12.

Sendoff ceremony Nov. 11

The day before the deployment, the county will host a public sendoff ceremony celebrating the ship’s history at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center. Light refreshments will be provided.

Watch party on deployment day

A live viewing party will be held at AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar in Destin beginning at 9 a.m. Nov. 12. A live feed from the deployment site will be shown on the restaurant’s large outdoor screen.

The county said the live viewing link will be shared on thessus.com before the deployment.

Viewing from the water

According to the county, the deployment could draw hundreds of vessels. Okaloosa County is working with its safety and security partners for a safe and efficient deployment, and bystanders are expected to follow guidance from the safety boats at the deployment site.

The proposed deployment location is 30° 07.148′ N, 86° 46.755′ W.

The SS United States artificial reef project was fully funded by tourism revenue and multiple partner contributions, according to the county.

More information

The ship’s history: ssusc.org
A 3D model of the ship: destinfwb.com 3D models
A summary of the completed remediation of the ship: SSUS remediation updates

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