Forward funnel removed from SS United States as artificial reef project advances

In Brief:

⚓ Forward smoke stack removed in Mobile, AL, preserved for future museum display
🌊 SS United States set for reef deployment in late 2025, about 20 miles offshore at 180 feet deep
🐠 Will enhance marine habitat and support Destin-Fort Walton Beach’s $2 billion tourism industry

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SHALIMAR — Significant progress is underway in transforming the iconic SS United States into the world’s largest artificial reef, as crews recently removed the massive 65-foot forward smoke stack from the historic vessel.

The removal took place on Monday in Mobile, Alabama. The forward funnel will be preserved in a secure location for future display at the SS United States Conservancy’s planned land-based museum. Officials expect the aft funnel to be removed soon.

The 990-foot ocean liner was purchased by Okaloosa County in 2024 with the vision to create expanded marine habitat in the northern Gulf of Mexico while boosting Destin-Fort Walton Beach’s thriving fishing and diving industries.

“This is a massive next step toward an environmental effort that will benefit our local marine habitat and build upon our robust tourism industry in Destin-Fort Walton Beach,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon in a news release. “I applaud the efforts of our contractor, Coleen Marine, and the Natural Resources Team for their work preserving this ship’s history as the World’s Largest Artificial Reef.”

The SS United States will be deployed by late 2025, roughly 20 nautical miles south of Destin-Fort Walton Beach. It will rest at a depth of approximately 180 feet to the ocean floor, with the upper deck about 55 feet below the surface, making it an appealing dive site for both beginners and technical divers.

The ship will join over a dozen large vessels already serving as artificial reefs in the Gulf, contributing to a tourism economy valued at more than $2 billion.