Okaloosa County leaders approve major partnerships to fund deployment of the historic ocean liner as a premier diving destination
Okaloosa County, Florida – Okaloosa County is making a big move toward a historic regional project that might change tourism and marine conservation in all of Northwest Florida. County authorities have made significant agreements that will help turn the SS United States into the world’s largest artificial reef. This is a big project that is expected to get a lot of attention across the world.
The Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners met recently and overwhelmingly agreed to collaboration agreements with Visit Pensacola and the Coastal Conservation Association Florida (CCA). Visit Pensacola will give $1.5 million and CCA Florida will give $500,000 to the reef project. Together, the two groups will give $2 million. The final approval from Visit Pensacola is set for December 2025. The money will help pay for the historic ship’s deployment and a long-term marketing push to make the site a top diving destination.
Officials said that working together was a big step forward for the area. Board Chairman Paul Mixon acknowledged the work that went into the agreement. He said that the project will create new options for adventure and strengthen the tourism industry for years to come. The artificial reef is meant to improve the environment for marine life and provide visitors a one-of-a-kind underwater experience that they can’t get anywhere else in the world.
“Visit Pensacola is thrilled to partner with Okaloosa County on this historic initiative. With the addition of the SS United States and Pensacola already home to the USS Oriskany, Northwest Florida is becoming one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations for divers and marine exploration,” said Visit Pensacola President and CEO, Darien Schaefer.
The enthusiasm was shared by CCA Florida Executive Director Brian Gorski, who emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts in supporting healthier marine ecosystems.
“CCA Florida is proud to once again partner with Okaloosa County, building on our long-standing collaboration on artificial reef projects and redfish stock enhancement,” said CCA Florida Executive Director Brian Gorski.
He also said that the cooperation is the biggest donation the organization has ever received in its 40-year history and that it is an immense privilege to assist build the world’s biggest artificial reef.
Once completely deployed, the SS United States will be a vital home for marine species, raise awareness about conservation, and enhance the economy by bringing in divers from all over the world. The ship, currently docked in Mobile, Alabama, is undergoing inspections following extensive environmental remediation. Deployment is set for early 2026 at a position that is roughly 22 nautical miles southwest of the Destin East Pass and 32 nautical miles southeast of the Pensacola Pass.
Local officials say the reef will be a symbol of unity in the region and a long-lasting benefit for future generations. It will provide ecological advantages, economic opportunities, and a shared sense of responsibility across Northwest Florida.
