The historic SS United States sets sail on its final journey down the Delaware River.
The SS United States, a historic ocean liner, embarked on its final journey on February 19, 2025, as it departed from Philadelphia towards Mobile, Alabama. Known for breaking the transatlantic speed record in 1952, this iconic ship will undergo an environmental remediation process before being transformed into an artificial reef off the coast of Florida. While some locals view it as a piece of history, others see it as an eyesore. The ship’s transformation comes with significant financial costs, but it aims to enhance local marine life as a diving destination.
The iconic SS United States has set sail on its last journey, marking a momentous occasion as it departs down the Delaware River out of Philadelphia. This historic ocean liner, which has been a quiet resident of the riverfront for nearly 30 years, began the towing process on February 19, 2025. This majestic ship, boasting a length of 1,000 feet, was famous for breaking the transatlantic speed record during its maiden voyage in 1952.
The SS United States is not just a ship; it’s a legacy. Its maiden voyage saw it crossing the Atlantic in just three days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes, averaging a speed of 36 knots or over 41 mph. A vessel of remarkable speed and elegance, it has carried troops during wartime and hosted numerous dignitaries, celebrities, and even U.S. Presidents. But now, rather than continuing to sway gracefully on the waves, the ship will soon rest beneath the surface.
The decision to move the SS United States comes after a resolution to a rent dispute involving the conservancy that has been overseeing the ship. While initial plans aimed for a November 2024 move, delays were brought on by concerns from the U.S. Coast Guard regarding the ship’s stability. After successfully setting sail this month, the ship will be towed to Mobile, Alabama, for essential preparations before its descent into the ocean.
Once it reaches Alabama, the next phase involves a thorough environmental remediation process, expected to last until the end of 2025. During this stage, components like command bridge parts and engine room equipment, as well as any hazardous materials, will be carefully removed to ensure the site is environmentally safe. This meticulous cleaning will help facilitate the ship’s future role as a giant artificial reef off the coast of Florida.
When all preparations are complete, the SS United States will be sunk approximately 20 miles southeast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida, at a depth of about 180 feet (55 meters). Local officials in Okaloosa County envision this majestic ship becoming an exciting destination for scuba divers and a new habitat for marine life, as part of their initiative to enhance the local underwater environment.
Transforming the SS United States into the world’s largest artificial reef comes with a hefty price tag—total expenses are expected to exceed $10 million. The long-awaited journey from riverfront landmark to underwater attraction will take at least one and a half years, but the rewards may be well worth the wait.
The tugboats began their important task around noon on February 19, passing under notable spans like the Walt Whitman Bridge and the Commodore Barry Bridge. With each passing moment, the journey of the SS United States continues to unfold, as it makes way for a new chapter beneath the waves.
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