Okaloosa County officials have approved a tentative deal to turn the SS United States, a legendary ocean liner, into the world’s largest artificial reef. This comes after a Florida court ordered the vessel to vacate its berth in Philadelphia due to a dispute over rent and dockage fees, The Associated Press reports.
The SS United States, the largest passenger ship ever built in the US, holds the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing by a passenger liner, set during its maiden voyage in 1952. However, the aging vessel has faced a race against time to find a new home, with conservationists fearing it would be scrapped.
The proposed solution: intentionally sink the vessel and transform it into a unique underwater attraction. Okaloosa County, already home to over 500 artificial reefs, believes the SS United States could become a signature diving destination, generating millions of dollars in annual tourism revenue for local businesses.
“The SS United States has inspired millions the world over as a symbol of American pride and excellence,” said Susan Gibbs, president of the SS US Conservancy. “Should the ship be converted into an artificial reef, she will become a unique historic attraction above and below the waterline.”
The deal, estimated to cost over $10 million, is contingent upon the successful resolution of court-imposed mediation regarding the ship’s departure from Philadelphia. The lengthy process of cleaning, transporting, and sinking the vessel is expected to take at least 18 months.
