Last voyage: Maritime icon becomes artificial reef
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Feb 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 15
The SS United States, once a symbol of American maritime prowess, is embarking on a final voyage to become the world's largest artificial reef.
This historic ocean liner, renowned for its speed and elegance, has been docked at Philadelphia's Pier 82 since 1996. Recent plans outline her transformation into an artificial reef off the coast of Okaloosa County, Florida, aiming to boost marine biodiversity and local tourism.
Updated: See the latest update at the bottom of the page.
A glorious past
Designed by esteemed naval architect William Francis Gibbs, the SS United States was launched in 1952. At 990 feet in length, she was engineered for dual purposes: luxury transatlantic voyages and rapid military deployment during the Cold War.
«The most advanced liner of her time, the SS United States was built to outclass and outrun every ship afloat. Her story is one of unmatched speed and elegance.» John Maxtone-Graham Maritime historian On her maiden voyage, she shattered transatlantic speed records, maintaining an average speed of 35 knots—a record that remains unbroken. The liner hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries, solidifying her status as a floating palace.
«This ship represents the pinnacle of American design and ingenuity. It would be a tragedy to lose such a significant piece of our maritime history.» Dan McSweeney Former head of the SS United States Redevelopment Project
During her service, the SS United States was considered the pinnacle of maritime engineering. She was designed to be fireproof, with almost no wood used in her construction except for the grand piano and the butcher’s block in the kitchen. Her propulsion system was so powerful that it remained classified by the U.S. Navy for years, as the ship was built to be quickly converted into a troop carrier in the event of war. The vessel could transport 14,000 troops at an incredible speed, making her a key strategic asset.
Decline and dormancy
Despite her initial success, the advent of jet travel in the 1960s led to a decline in ocean liner patronage. The SS United States was retired from active service in 1969 and changed ownership multiple times. She was stripped of her luxurious interiors in the 1980s and remained idle at Pier 82 in Philadelphia. Efforts to repurpose or preserve the vessel faced financial and logistical challenges, leaving her future uncertain.
Over the years, multiple proposals surfaced, including converting her into a floating hotel, a casino, or a museum, but none materialized due to high costs.
A new purpose
In October 2024, Okaloosa County purchased the SS United States for $1 million, intending to transform her into an artificial reef. This initiative aims to create a habitat for marine life and establish a unique attraction for divers and anglers, potentially generating significant tourism revenue. Before her final submersion, the ship will undergo a 12-month environmental remediation in Mobile, Alabama, to remove hazardous materials and ensure ecological safety.
Structural modifications will also be made to facilitate a stable and upright position on the ocean floor. The exact sinking location is projected to be approximately 20 nautical miles south of Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
Delays and challenges
The departure of the SS United States has faced delays. Initially scheduled to leave Philadelphia in November 2024, the move was postponed due to logistical and weather-related concerns. A subsequent attempt in February 2025 was halted by the U.S. Coast Guard, citing the need for additional safety assurances regarding towing operations. As of now, a new departure date has not been set, and preparations continue to address the outlined concerns.
Preservationists' concerns
Many preservationists express deep concern over sinking the historic vessel. Susan Gibbs, president of the SS United States Conservancy, emphasizes the ship's historical significance, stating that the SS United States is a symbol of American innovation and resilience. –We hope to honor her legacy in a way that befits her storied past.
«This artificial reef will create an unparalleled marine habitat while boosting tourism and the local economy.» Okaloosa County officials On the reef project
Environmental and economic views
Proponents highlight the environmental and economic benefits of the project. Okaloosa County officials point out that the artificial reef could enhance marine biodiversity and attract tourism, benefiting local businesses. The extensive environmental remediation process planned before sinking aims to ensure ecological safety.
Critics' viewpoints
Critics argue that sinking the ship equates to losing a significant piece of maritime history.
Maritime historian John Maxtone-Graham once described the SS United States as «the most advanced liner of her time,» underscoring the ship's technological and cultural importance.
«The most advanced liner of her time»
A legacy preserved
While the transformation of the SS United States into an artificial reef marks the end of her voyages, it also signifies a new chapter in her storied existence. This endeavor not only preserves the ship's legacy but also contributes to environmental conservation and local economic development. As she prepares to rest beneath the waves, the SS United States will continue to inspire and serve, albeit in a profoundly different capacity.
Latest update
As of March 8, 2025, the SS United States has successfully completed the initial phase of its transformation into the world's largest artificial reef.
The historic ocean liner departed from Philadelphia on February 19, 2025, and arrived in Mobile, Alabama, on March 3, 2025, ahead of schedule.
The vessel is currently undergoing an extensive remediation process in Mobile, which includes the removal of hazardous materials and structural preparations. This phase is expected to take approximately six months.
Upon completion, the ship will be towed to a designated location off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida, where it will be deliberately sunk to create an artificial reef. This initiative aims to establish a new habitat for marine life and attract divers, thereby bolstering local tourism.
The SS United States, launched in 1952, was renowned for its engineering and speed, having set transatlantic speed records and transported notable figures, including U.S. presidents and celebrities like Marilyn Monroe. Its conversion into an artificial reef marks the end of an era, preserving its legacy in a unique underwater monument.
