Sunk off Florida, SS United States helps create world's biggest artificial reef
A liner reaches its final destination
The SS United States spent years docked in Philadelphia after its retirement. Attempts to restore the ship repeatedly failed. Okaloosa County purchased the 990-foot vessel in 2024. On Wednesday, November 11, it was sunk in the Gulf off Florida.
A reef for divers and wildlife
The sinking took place roughly 25 miles off Florida’s coast, between Panama City and Pensacola. The project is meant to create a destination for divers. The ship is also intended to provide habitat for local marine wildlife. It is described as the world’s largest artificial reef.
A former speed record holder
Before its retirement more than 50 years ago, the SS United States was the world’s fastest liner. Its new role follows years of unsuccessful efforts to restore it.
The county’s purchase and sinking bring the vessel’s time in Philadelphia to an end. The ship now rests offshore as an artificial reef.
Key points
- Okaloosa County bought the 990-foot SS United States in 2024.
- The ship was sunk about 25 miles off Florida on November 11.
- The reef lies between Panama City and Pensacola.
- The site is intended to serve divers and local marine wildlife.