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SS United States Philadelphia departure delayed due to Coast Guard requirements

The historic ocean liner's planned move from Pier 82 to Pier 80, scheduled for February 6, has been postponed while additional details requested by the U.S. Coast Guard are addressed.

Jared Williams

Okaloosa County officials announced today that the planned relocation of the SS United States from Philadelphia has been delayed due to additional requirements from the U.S. Coast Guard.

The delay affects both the ship’s planned pier transition and its subsequent departure from Philadelphia, which was originally scheduled for February 8. Officials have not announced a new departure date.

The Coast Guard has requested follow-up details to ensure a proper tow between Philadelphia’s Pier 82 and Pier 80, according to county officials.

Despite the setback, Okaloosa County confirmed its commitment to the project, which aims to create the world’s largest artificial reef. The county continues to work with the SS United States Conservancy on plans for a land-based museum to preserve the vessel’s history.

The 990-foot former ocean liner has been docked in Philadelphia since 1996. When deployed as an artificial reef, it will surpass the 888-foot USS Oriskany off Pensacola as the world’s largest.

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Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: May 20, 2026

“3:43, 5 attempts”

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HGifford commented on Destin City Council votes 4-3 to replace July 4th fireworks with drone show, citing shorebird protections

“You people need to see the overall picture: birds are an important part of nature. Destin already lets trees be felled without any consequences…other than global warming.”

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Bobbi Davis commented on Destin City Council votes 4-3 to replace July 4th fireworks with drone show, citing shorebird protections

“Agree - for our 250th Birthday/Independence Day, this should not be the year to change. This should be the year for the biggest Celebration - the birth of our Republic,...”

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Ellen Kight commented on Destin City Council votes 4-3 to replace July 4th fireworks with drone show, citing shorebird protections

“For the 250th anniversary let’s keep the fireworks. Try something new next year.”

G commented on Destin City Council votes 4-3 to replace July 4th fireworks with drone show, citing shorebird protections

“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! & for our nation's 250th!?? BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! Let FREEDOM RING BABY!”

Brett Wisdom commented on WordroW: May 19, 2026

“1:27, 3 attempts”