A county in the state of Florida (USA) aims to transform the emblematic SS United States transatlantic into the largest artificial reef on the planet.
This historic vessel began its final journey last Wednesday, departing from the docks of the Delaware River, south of Philadelphia.
The ship is being towed to Mobile, Alabama, where the necessary preparations will be carried out before it is sunk in the waters of the Gulf of Florida. The transatlantic will join the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany, currently holding the title of the largest artificial reef after being sunk off Pensacola, Florida, in 2006.
The relocation of the SS United States comes after resolving a prolonged lease dispute between the overseeing entity and the lessor.
The world’s largest artificial reef
Authorities in Okaloosa County, in the region known as the “panhandle” of Florida, hope that the SS United States will become the most prominent of the over 500 artificial reefs that already exist in the area.
The ship will be modified to ensure that when it is sunk, it remains in a vertical position underwater, allowing for its optimal adaptation as a marine habitat. According to authorities, this preparation process will take about 12 months.
Due to its size and location, the underwater structure will become a refuge for various marine species, from reef fish like red snapper to ocean species like dolphin fish, as mentioned in an article on marine habitats.
Additionally, the ship is envisioned as a top-level diving attraction that could generate millions of dollars in annual local tourism revenue.
While the exact location has not been determined, it is expected that the vessel will be sunk approximately 37 kilometers south of the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area. This reef program is one of the most active in the United States, using resources from old bridges to surplus military material to create underwater habitats.
The legacy of the SS United States: an icon of naval engineering
The SS United States is remembered as a symbol of innovation and excellence in American engineering. It was designed as a military ship capable of transporting thousands of soldiers.
It set a transatlantic speed record during its maiden voyage in 1952, crossing the Atlantic in just three days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes. To this day, it holds the record for a ship of its kind, with an average speed of 36 knots.
After being retired from active service in 1969, the transatlantic went through several private owners with remodeling plans that never materialized due to the high cost. For years, the ship remained inactive in the Delaware River, accumulating stories and symbolizing a significant chapter in American maritime history.
Have you checked out our YouTube channel yet? Subscribe now!
