The SS United States, a once-celebrated ocean liner, is set to become the world’s largest artificial reef. After decades moored in Philadelphia, plans are underway to sink the historic ship off Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The vessel would join a network of 500 existing artificial reefs providing vital marine life habitats.
Initially built in the 1950s for troop transport during wartime, the vessel was repurposed into a luxury liner. It became famed as the fastest ship on the seas and retained the Transatlantic speed record. After being decommissioned in 1967, the SS United States remained a symbol of American maritime history.
Launched in 1951, the ship was built with a secret double purpose as a troop carrier. Her maiden voyage took place in 1952.Photo byHulton Archive/Getty Images
How exactly can an ocean liner be converted into an artificial reef? The ship’s features, like its concrete blocks, will offer vital shelter and habitat to dozens of marine animals. The process of converting the 100-foot SS United States into an artificial reef involves careful environmental remediation, which includes removing any hazardous materials and preparing the ship’s structure to promote marine life growth.