The SS United States, holder of the transatlantic speed record, will begin its final voyage from Philadelphia’s Pier 82 this month, marking the start of its transformation into the world’s largest artificial reef off the Florida Panhandle.

• The operation to move the 990-foot vessel will begin Thursday, November 14, during high tide at approximately 11:45 a.m., when 6 tugboats will maneuver the ship to Pier 80’s north side, according to Okaloosa County.

The following day, pre-dawn operations will commence to guide the historic liner into the Delaware River during low tide. The process will require temporary closures of three major bridges: the Walt Whitman Bridge (I-76), Commodore Barry Bridge (U.S. 322), and Delaware Memorial Bridge (I-295).

After entering the Atlantic Ocean, two to three tugboats will tow the vessel on an estimated two-week journey to Mobile, Alabama, where it will undergo a 12-month preparation process for its new role as an artificial reef.

• “The preparation in Mobile will include removal of hazardous materials, non-metal parts, and fuel to ensure the deployment is environmentally safe,” according to the announcement. Modifications will also be made to ensure the vessel lands upright underwater.

While the exact deployment location hasn’t been finalized, plans call for positioning the ship approximately 20 miles south of the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area.

Okaloosa County will continue its partnership with the SS United States Conservancy to develop a land-based museum in Destin-Fort Walton Beach. The museum will showcase iconic features from the ship, including its distinctive funnels and radar mast, along with the Conservancy’s archival collection.

The public can follow the ship’s journey via GPS tracking at www.destinfwb.com/explore/eco-tourism/ssus.