SS United States to Sink Nov. 12 as 990-Foot Liner Becomes Largest Artificial Reef
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Nov 8
SS United States to Sink Nov. 12 as 990-Foot Liner Becomes Largest Artificial Reef
3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Nov 8
Summary
Nov. 12 is the target date for sinking the 990-foot SS United States 22 nautical miles southwest of Destin, Florida, where it is set to become the world’s largest artificial reef.
Okaloosa County bought the liner for $1 million and, with partners, spent nearly $13 million to tow and prepare it after decades of failed redevelopment plans.
County officials say the reef will add habitat for marine life and draw divers, with a ship-related museum also planned to boost tourism revenue.
The vessel once carried more than 1 million passengers and set the transatlantic speed record on its 1952 maiden voyage before retiring in 1969 as jet travel displaced ocean liners.
Its sinking will surpass the USS Oriskany, a former aircraft carrier scuttled off Pensacola in 2006, as the current largest artificial reef.