Historic SS United States Set to Become the World’s Largest Artificial Reef

The historic American ocean liner SS United States, which once set a world record for transatlantic travel, is preparing to make history once again—this time beneath the sea. The 990-foot-long vessel is set to be submerged approximately 40 kilometres off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach in Florida, where it will become the world’s largest artificial reef. The SS United States Conservancy, which has worked for decades to preserve the ship, is also planning to establish a museum along Florida’s coast to showcase its history. Several artefacts and components from the vessel will be preserved, including its two massive funnels, which have already been removed and stored.

Larger than the Titanic, the SS United States was designed not only as a luxury liner but also to transport military personnel during emergencies. According to the Naval Historical Foundation, construction began in 1950 and cost more than $70 million. The ship could accommodate around 1,900 to 2,000 passengers during normal operations and transport up to 14,000 troops during wartime. On its maiden voyage in 1952, it travelled from New York to Europe in just three days and 11 hours, a record that remains unbeaten. Four US presidents—Harry Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton—also travelled aboard the vessel. After being retired in 1969, the ship remained at various Atlantic ports for decades. Following nearly 30 years at a Philadelphia shipyard, its future became uncertain in 2024, with scrapping and conversion into an artificial reef among the options. Okaloosa County in Florida eventually purchased it for $1 million. After being moved from Philadelphia last year, the vessel underwent preparations to ensure it would not harm the marine environment, including the removal of hazardous materials and the clearing of its interiors. The county expects the project to boost the local economy through fishing, diving and other tourism activities.