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A Historic Ocean Liner to Become the World’s Largest Artificial Reef

The SS United States, once a symbol of American maritime prowess, is set to embark on a transformative final journey, not to a graveyard of rust, but to serve as the world’s largest artificial reef. This storied ocean liner once ferried the affluent and influential, including movie stars and presidents, and now it aims to create an underwater haven for marine life and an exciting dive site for enthusiasts.

Renowned as the fastest ocean liner to traverse the Atlantic, the SS United States famously completed its maiden voyage from New York to Europe in just three days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes in 1952. After years of uncertainty about its future, following its departure from its long-standing dock in Philadelphia, the ship was acquired by Okaloosa County in Florida. Plans are in place to scuttle the vessel by 2026, marking its transition into an artificial reef of significant scale.

The designated site for this new reef is approximately 10 miles from the coast of Destin, Florida, with the ship’s top decks expected to rest at a depth of 60 feet. This depth will make the reef accessible to divers of all skill levels. Prior to sinking, the ship will undergo a thorough cleansing process to eliminate hazardous materials, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

This move aligns with Okaloosa County’s initiative to enhance eco-tourism and bolster marine biodiversity in the region. The SS United States will join over 500 artificial reefs in the vicinity, which include numerous smaller shipwrecks, contributing to the underwater ecosystem.

The ship, affectionately dubbed “America’s Flagship,” is cherished for its legacy. It served as a floating stage for notable figures, like John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy, Grace Kelly, and Walt Disney, symbolizing the zenith of American innovation during its operational years. After ceasing operations in 1969, the liner faced a precarious fate, lingering in a state of neglect. Various attempts to repurpose it as a museum or hotel failed, leading Okaloosa County to pursue a visionary plan: to transform the vessel into a vibrant underwater sanctuary.

Although this transitioning process may not restore the ship to its former grandeur, it promises a new legacy as a habitat for marine life, inspiring generations to come. The SS United States will live on in a different capacity, contributing positively to the marine environment and the local tourism economy.

The vessel’s journey south has recently stirred excitement among locals, especially as it gracefully traversed the waters off Palm Beach, evoking nostalgia among those who recognize its iconic silhouette. For those eager to witness its transition to the deep, ongoing updates on the ship’s status can be found through the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Welcome + Adventure Center’s website. For a taste of its former glory, viewers can also revisit the 1962 Disney film “Bon Voyage!” which features the grand vessel.

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www.travelandleisure.com