Historic ocean liner may become largest artificial reef in Gulf
- Okaloosa County in Florida has approved a tentative deal to sink the SS United States as an artificial reef.
- The ship, which has been docked in Philadelphia, faced eviction due to disputes over fees and is at risk of being scrapped.
- The initiative aims to create a unique diving attraction, potentially generating millions in local tourism revenue.
In Florida, a historic ocean liner, the SS United States, is poised to become the world’s largest artificial reef after Okaloosa County officials approved a tentative deal for its sinking. This decision follows a court ruling that required the ship to leave its current dock in Philadelphia due to ongoing disputes over fees. The SS United States, which holds the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing by a passenger liner, has been in jeopardy of being scrapped. Conservationists are now racing against time to preserve the vessel, which is significantly larger than the Titanic. The plan to sink the ship aims to create a unique diving attraction, potentially boosting local tourism and benefiting the fishing community. The estimated cost of acquiring the ship exceeds $10 million, and the process of cleaning, transporting, and sinking it is expected to take at least 1.5 years. Supporters believe that this initiative will not only honor the ship's legacy but also enhance the region's ecological and economic landscape.