The historic ocean liner SS United States , once a symbol of American engineering and a vessel that ferried immigrants, Hollywood stars, and heads of state, may soon find its final resting place at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico . Okaloosa County in Florida’s Panhandle has tentatively agreed to sink the ship, turning it into the world’s largest artificial reef.
The deal, approved by Okaloosa County officials, hinges on court-imposed mediation after a judge ordered the SS United States to vacate its berth in Philadelphia due to years of unpaid rent and dockage fees.
Built in 1952, the SS United States was the largest passenger ship constructed in the U.S. and set a transatlantic speed record on its maiden voyage, crossing the Atlantic in just three days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes. It remains the fastest ocean liner ever.
Since being decommissioned in 1969, the vessel has struggled to find a permanent home, with various redevelopment plans falling through due to high costs. The ship has been docked in Philadelphia for nearly 30 years as legal battles persisted.