Historic SS United States Set to Be Sunk Off Florida Coast for Artificial Reef
Outrage erupts as plans confirmed to scuttle the former fastest ocean liner, a symbol of American innovation, despite preservation efforts.
The historic ocean liner SS United States, once a symbol of American speed and innovation, is slated to be sunk off the coast of Florida in November to become the world's largest artificial reef. The decision has sparked outrage among history enthusiasts and preservationists who have fought for years to save the vessel.
The SS United States first set sail in 1952 and quickly earned the title of America's Fastest Ship, setting a speed record on its maiden transatlantic voyage. During its heyday in the 1950s, it carried notable passengers such as John F. Kennedy, Walt Disney, and Marilyn Monroe, and featured in popular culture, including the film "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes."
Despite its storied past, the ship was retired from naval service in 1969. Since then, it has passed through various owners and faced numerous proposals for redevelopment, none of which materialized. These included plans for condominiums in the 1980s, a hotel and museum complex in 2020, and a maritime school and mixed-use complex in 2015.
The SS United States Conservancy, a nonprofit organization, has maintained the ship since 2010. However, after a decade of failed attempts to secure a viable renovation plan, the Conservancy reached an agreement with Florida officials to repurpose the vessel as an artificial reef.
According to the Board of County Commissioners in Destin, Florida, the ship has undergone full remediation. The Army Corps of Engineers has scheduled its final deployment for the second week of November in the Gulf of Mexico, southwest of Destin-Walton Beach.
The decision has been met with strong opposition from groups like the NY Coalition to Save the SS United States. The coalition has called the sinking a "slap in the face" to those who cherish the ship and have fought for its preservation. They have raised concerns about the potential for carcinogens to contaminate the water due to the ship's age and size, despite its remediation.
A petition launched by the coalition to save the ship garnered over 16,000 signatures, with signatories arguing that the SS United States is an irreplaceable piece of American maritime history and a National Historic Landmark. They advocate for its restoration and return to New York for waterfront redevelopment.
Despite these efforts, the ship has been prepared for its final voyage. Its tanks have been emptied, exterior paint removed, and artifacts salvaged. Following its sinking, the site is planned to open for diving tours, and a museum will be built nearby to commemorate its history.