Divers and anglers anticipate new underwater destination as SS United States prepares for reefing
Destin, Florida – As the largest manmade reef in the world, the SS United States is prepared to embark on the next chapter of its legendary journey in a historic act that blends environmental preservation with maritime legacy. Following an 1,800 nautical mile journey from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the ship is undergoing a thorough six-to-twelve-month preparation.
Under the direction of Okaloosa County and Destin-Fort Walton Beach in association with the Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Protection Agency, this massive project aims to strip the vessel of all non-metal objects, wire, and fuel so guaranteeing an environmentally safe submersion into the Gulf of Mexico.
Paul Mixon, Chairman of the Okaloosa County Board, expressed his enthusiasm about the project.
“We are proud to continue the story of this historic vessel as an artificial reef along with the land-based museum,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon in a release. “I applaud the Destin-Fort Walton Beach team in their efforts to succeed in this important next step and look forward to the immense impact she will continue to have on the lives of those who appreciate her history.”
The biggest passenger ship ever built in America, the SS United States will undergo changes including strategically creating holes in the ship’s framework to guarantee it lands straight and to let aquatic life flourish inside and around it. Enhancing the ecosystem in the area, the artificial reef will offer a new home for a range of marine life including grouper, snapper, mackerel, and tuna.
Divers from all around the world will soon have another place to discover. With a planned reef depth of 180 feet to the bottom and roughly 55 feet to the top, the ship’s great scale is perfect for all degrees of diving ability. Even though plans call for the ship to be positioned roughly 20 nautical miles south of Destin-Fort Walton Beach, the precise site of deployment is yet unknown.
Apart from its environmental advantages, the SS United States will help the local and regional fishing businesses, which depend on healthy fisheries to thrive. In order to protect the rich legacy of the SS United States for next generations, Okaloosa County is also working with the SS United States Conservancy to create a land-based museum and visitor center at Destin-Fort Walton Beach.
Along with preserving and improving marine life, this dual-use project recognizes the historical relevance of the SS United States. The County hopes to preserve the memories of the nation’s flagship alive and available to the public through consistent updates and supporting the efforts of the Conservancy.
For more details on the history of the SS United States and updates on the artificial reef project, visit the SS United States Conservancy’s website or explore more about Okaloosa County’s artificial reef program through their official portals.
