World’s Largest Artificial Reef Begins Journey to the Bottom of the Gulf of Mexico

The SS United States will depart from her dock in Philadelphia on November 14, 2024, embarking on a journey to Mobile, Alabama, where she will undergo preparations to become the world’s largest artificial reef.

This move is part of a project led by Okaloosa County’s Tourist Development Department, and backed by state and federal authorities.

Operations to move the historic ocean liner will commence mid-morning on November 14. Tugboats will secure the vessel and maneuver it into position at Pier 80 before it moves down the Delaware River early the next morning, November 15. Traffic closures on key bridges, including the Walt Whitman, Commodore Barry, and Delaware Memorial, will occur in coordination with the Department of Transportation. Once she reaches the Atlantic, a set of tugs will tow the SS United States to Mobile, a journey expected to last approximately two weeks.

Upon arrival, the ship will undergo extensive preparations to ensure an environmentally safe deployment as an artificial reef. Contractors will remove hazardous materials, dismantle non-metal parts, and make structural adjustments to stabilize the vessel underwater. The preparations are expected to take around a year, after which the SS United States will be submerged approximately 20 miles south of the Florida Panhandle.

The SS United States Conservancy will collaborate with Okaloosa County on a land-based museum in Destin-Fort Walton Beach, preserving parts of the ship, including its iconic funnels and radar mast, and showcasing the vessel’s rich history.