SS United States Sunk as World's Largest Artificial Reef
Okaloosa County intentionally sank the historic SS United States ocean liner off the coast of Florida to create a massive artificial reef and diving destination.
The historic ocean liner SS United States was intentionally sunk on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, to become the world's largest artificial reef. Okaloosa County purchased the former speed record holder for $1 million in 2024 and managed the operation to position the vessel approximately 22 to 25 nautical miles southwest of Destin, Florida, where it now rests in about 180 feet of water.
To prepare for the sinking, the ship was towed from Philadelphia to Mobile, Alabama, where it underwent extensive cleaning to remove hazardous materials and fuel. Workers stripped the vessel of its 65-foot smokestacks and cut holes in the decks and portholes to allow seawater to flood the hull, ensuring the ship sank upright without the use of prohibited explosives.
Officials moved the deployment date up from Thursday to Wednesday to avoid forecasted heavy winds and unsafe weather. Okaloosa County Board Chairman Trey Goodwin noted the new date coincided with Veterans Day, providing a meaningful occasion to honor military veterans and the ship's legacy. The project proceeded despite legal challenges from the SS United States Preservation Foundation, which a federal judge dismissed.
The county aims to boost tourism and attract scuba divers to the Florida Panhandle. To complement the reef, organizers are planning a museum in Fort Walton Beach to house 10,000 objects recovered from the vessel, including its iconic smokestacks.
