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PHILADELPHIA, Pa. – The SS United States is set to leave its longtime berth in Philadelphia as it begins the process of becoming the world’s largest artificial reef. Okaloosa County’s Tourism Development Department, based in Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida, has completed all necessary safety approvals for the vessel’s relocation.
The SS United States will first move from Pier 82 to Pier 80 on Feb. 14, 2025, with crews preparing to shift the vessel at high tide, scheduled for 2:47 p.m. The ship will depart Pier 80 on Feb. 17, 2025, traveling down the Delaware River at low tide at 11:18 a.m. From there, a two-week journey will begin to Mobile, Alabama, where further preparations will take place.
Once in Mobile, contractors will remove hazardous materials, including fuel and non-metal components, to ensure the ship is environmentally safe before deployment. Workers will make additional modifications to ensure the vessel remains upright when placed underwater. This preparation process is expected to take about 12 months.
Officials have not yet determined the final deployment site, but they anticipate placing the vessel approximately 20 nautical miles south of Destin-Fort Walton Beach. Once submerged, the artificial reef will attract marine life, benefiting local ecosystems and supporting diving and fishing industries. Experts anticipate species such as red snapper and wahoo will inhabit the structure.
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Okaloosa County will continue working with the SS United States Conservancy to establish a land-based museum in Destin-Fort Walton Beach. The museum will feature components from the ship, including its funnels and radar mast, alongside archival materials to preserve its history.
The public can track the vessel’s movement via GPS once relocation begins by visiting www.destinfwb.com/explore/eco-tourism/ssus. For more information on the SS United States, visit www.ssusc.org. Readers can find additional details on Okaloosa County’s artificial reef program at www.destinfwb.com/explore/eco-tourism/artificial-reefs/.
