SS United States Reef Location Sparks Rivalry Among FL Counties

The SS United States, once celebrated as the pinnacle of maritime design and speed, is nearing the end of its storied journey. The 990-foot-long vessel, which still holds the transatlantic speed record, arrived in Mobile, Alabama, on March 3, 2025, to undergo preparations for its final chapter: intentional scuttling as the centerpiece of the world’s largest artificial reef. Despite the ambitious plan, competing interests in Florida may still influence the ship’s ultimate resting place.

Dispute Over Final Location in Florida

The original proposal situated the scuttling site roughly 30 miles offshore from Fort Walton Beach and Destin in Okaloosa County, Florida. However, a rival bid from neighboring Bay County has introduced additional complexity. The Bay County Tourist Development Council has offered $3 million to relocate the site closer to Panama City Beach, aiming to position the future reef as a marquee draw for diving enthusiasts.

“We are excited that this is going to be the world’s largest artificial reef. If we can get that as close to Panama City as possible and partner with Okaloosa County, it is going to be great for both of our dive industries,” said Patrick Green, a Panama City-based dive operator, in an interview with WJHG Channel 7. He cited case studies where similar undertakings led to a doubling of business, underscoring the significant financial stakes tied to the ship’s final destination.

Okaloosa County, the purchaser of the liner, has yet to formally respond to Bay County’s proposal. While a collaborative approach could benefit both counties economically, no definitive agreement has been announced, leaving the fate of the SS United States in limbo.

Preparing an Icon for Its Last Voyage

Before it can be scuttled, the vessel is undergoing extensive environmental refurbishment and structural preparations in Mobile. These measures will ensure the ship becomes a stable, enduring artificial reef and remains safe for marine life and divers. According to those overseeing the project, this process is expected to take about a year, though no exact sinking date has been confirmed.

Once submerged, the SS United States will rest in 180 feet of water. Standing 175 feet high from keel to smokestack, it promises a challenging dive experience for advanced divers while offering partial views for less-experienced visitors. This combination of imposing scale and immersive history is anticipated to attract considerable tourism to the eventual site.

A Legacy That Lives On

Built in the early 1950s with U.S. government support, the SS United States epitomized the heyday of ocean liners—when ships embodied both luxury and cutting-edge innovation. Its ascendance was punctuated by setting the westbound Atlantic speed record, a title it still holds. Over time, the rise of commercial aviation contributed to the decline of transatlantic liner service, ultimately diminishing the market for ships like the SS United States.

While its physical form will be transformed underwater, the vessel’s historical importance will be preserved on land. A shoreside museum is planned to showcase artifacts and exhibits, ensuring that tourists and history enthusiasts alike can appreciate the ship’s notable legacy even if they never venture beneath the waves.

Balancing Local Interests and Long-Term Goals

The debate over where to sink the SS United States reflects broader questions of regional economic strategy. Both Okaloosa and Bay counties recognize that hosting such a prominent artificial reef would bolster visitation and related revenue. Proximity to popular tourist areas like Panama City Beach could shape the reef’s long-term success, highlighting the importance of location in attracting both seasoned divers and curious visitors.

For now, negotiations continue as the ship’s final chapter takes shape, symbolizing not only the end of an era but the beginning of a new one beneath the ocean’s surface.

Why is the SS United States being scuttled?

The SS United States is being intentionally sunk to establish an artificial reef that will strengthen marine ecosystems, attract diving tourism, and preserve the ship’s historic legacy in a novel way.

What are the potential benefits of sinking the SS United States?

In addition to creating a distinct underwater attraction for divers, the artificial reef is expected to foster marine life growth and boost local economies by stimulating tourism and related business ventures.

Why are counties competing over the ship’s final resting place?

Okaloosa and Bay counties are vying for the location because of the anticipated tourism revenue and economic gains. The convenience and visibility provided by an established tourist hub can greatly influence the reef’s popularity.

What challenges are involved in creating such a large artificial reef?

The project entails extensive environmental assessments, structural modifications, and logistical coordination to ensure the vessel’s safe, lasting placement on the seabed, where it can support marine habitats and remain accessible to divers.