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The SS United States, one of the world’s most iconic cruise ships, is set to be sunk intentionally by authorities for a unique purpose.
Built in the early 1950s, this retired ocean liner was once the fastest of its time. It also hosted famous figures such as John F. Kennedy, Marilyn Monroe, Walt Disney, Judy Garland, and Salvador Dalí. At over 1,000 feet long, it was even larger than the Titanic. However, in 1969, the ship was retired, much to the surprise of many, especially since cruises were already booked for 1970 and beyond.
The decision to retire the ship was due to poor maintenance, and most of its interior furnishings were sold off. Now, more than 55 years later, the SS United States is set to be sunk intentionally by officials in the USA.
Plans to Sink the Ship
Though the decision hasn’t been officially authorized yet, plans are already in motion to sink the ship. Currently docked in Philadelphia, the SS United States is expected to be moved to Florida’s Destin-Fort Walton Beach. Once there, it will be sunk to the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico.
To make this happen, the ship will first need extensive repairs. Its current condition makes it unfit to be moved as it is. The vessel is not watertight, has structural issues, and an off-center gravity, meaning it cannot be towed yet. The process of getting the ship ready for its final voyage could take years.
A New Purpose for the SS United States
When it is eventually sunk, the SS United States will serve a new, important purpose. The plan is for it to become an artificial reef, providing a habitat for marine life. Okaloosa County’s tourism director, Jennifer Adams, expressed her excitement about the project: “This will be an exciting addition to our artificial reefs and wrecks and will provide essential habitat for fish.”
Challenges in the Ship’s Journey
Okaloosa County purchased the SS United States for $10 million (£7.9 million) in October 2024. However, the ship’s journey to Florida may not be smooth. Reports suggest that the ship could come dangerously close to hitting the massive Walt Whitman Bridge over the Delaware River in Philadelphia.
The Delaware River Port Authority, which oversees local bridges, stated: “At this time, we have not been informed of any changes to the previously established clearances or received notice of differences that could affect our bridges.”
Whether the ship will make it to Florida in one piece remains uncertain. The cruise ship has been abandoned since 1996, and in 2021, the previous owners were instructed to find a new home for the ship after ceasing to pay rent.
