Preservation groups failed to save the liner because of high costs
Okaloosa County officials in Florida announced that they expect to sink the SS United States off the Florida Gulf Coast during the second week of November. The officials said the exact dates could change because of weather. The ship will be sunk about 22 nautical miles (41 kilometers) southwest of Destin.
The plan is intended to make the SS United States the world’s largest artificial reef. “This is an exciting move forward to create a one-of-a-kind resource for the environment and for our tourism industry,” county officials wrote in a news release.
At nearly 1,000 feet (305 meters), the SS United States shattered the transatlantic speed record on its maiden voyage in 1952. Preservation groups moved unsuccessfully to have the SS United States saved, and high costs hindered their efforts.
Supporters hope that sinking the ship will make it a barnacle-encrusted star among more than 500 artificial reefs and a signature diving attraction. Supporters say the project could help generate millions of dollars a year in local tourism spending for scuba shops, charter fishing boats and hotels.