Where is the SS United States now? Florida plans to sink it as world's largest artificial reef
The SS United States, a once-iconic ocean liner, will soon be sunk off Florida’s Gulf Coast to become the world’s largest artificial reef, ending nearly 30 years of abandonment and failed restoration efforts.
After nearly 30 years of being vacant, the SS United States, the iconic ocean liner located in Florida, will soon have a new purpose. It is set to be sunk off the Gulf Coast of Florida, where it will transform into the world’s largest artificial reef. If everything goes as planned, it will become home to thousands of fish and marine species.
This colossal ship once held the title of the fastest vessel in the world when, on its maiden voyage in 1952, it crossed the Atlantic Ocean in just three days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes, breaking the previous record by 10 hours, which had been held by the RMS Queen Mary.
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Why did the SS United States become obsolete?
The SS United States could reach an impressive speed of 36 knots, equivalent to about 66 kilometers per hour, making it one of the fastest ships of its time. However, the rise of commercial air travel in the mid-20th century led to a decline in demand for transatlantic sea voyages, rendering the once-glorious ship obsolete.
In 1996, the ship was retired from service and moved to a dock in Philadelphia, where it remained abandoned for nearly 30 years, suffering from oxidation and the effects of time. During this period, the SS United States became a relic of a past era of ocean travel, far removed from its former glory and purpose.
How much will cost to sink the SS United States?
Bay County authorities have proposed a $3 million offer to Okaloosa County to have the SS United States sunk closer to Panama City Beach.
Dan Rowe, president and CEO of Visit Panama City Beach, emphasized that the area boasts one of the largest diving fleets on the entire northern Gulf Coast.
Meanwhile, Escambia County officials have offered $1 million to sink the ocean liner near Pensacola.
However, Darien Schaefer, president and CEO of Visit Pensacola, pointed out an important advantage of this location: it is just 12 nautical miles (22 kilometers) from the USS Oriskany, a renowned wreck that became a diving site in 2006.
The vessel's final resting place will be off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida, where it will become the world's largest artificial reef.