SS United States to become world largest artificial reef

The SS United States, a record-breaking ocean liner, is scheduled to be intentionally sunk in the Gulf of Mexico on November 12. Okaloosa County, Florida, purchased the vessel from the SS United States Conservancy to transform the 300-meter ship into an artificial reef.

The project aims to create a habitat for marine life and a destination for divers and anglers, potentially boosting regional tourism. Once settled, the wreck will lie at a depth of approximately 55 meters, with the upper deck roughly 17 to 18 meters below the surface. Officials state that due to its length, it will become the largest artificial reef in the world.

Built in 1952, the SS United States holds the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing, completing the journey from New York to Southampton in 3 days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes. After being decommissioned in 1969, restoration efforts failed due to high costs. While the ship is being prepared in Mobile, Alabama, two of its 65-foot smokestacks will be preserved on land for a planned museum.