Coastal Resources

SS United States leaves Philadelphia, begins journey to become artificial reef

Historic ocean liner departs Philadelphia for Mobile to undergo yearlong preparation before deployment off Destin-Fort Walton Beach as world's largest artificial reef.

Jared Williams

The SS United States left Philadelphia Wednesday after nearly 30 years, beginning a two-week journey to Mobile, Ala., where it will be prepared for deployment as an artificial reef off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach.

Contractors in Mobile will spend about 12 months removing hazardous materials and making modifications to ensure the 990-foot vessel will rest upright on the seafloor when deployed.

Officials plan to place the ship about 20 nautical miles south of Okaloosa, though the exact location has not been determined.

The project aims to create new marine habitats that will attract various species, from red snapper to wahoo, while providing opportunities for fishing and diving operations.

Okaloosa County will partner with the SS United States Conservancy to develop a land-based museum in Destin-Fort Walton Beach to commemorate the historic vessel.

The public can track the ship’s journey to Mobile through GPS monitoring on the Destin-Fort Walton Beach website.

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