US ship becomes world's largest artificial reef

Once the largest passenger ship in the US, the SS United States could be sunk as an artificial reef, bringing economic and environmental benefits.

The SS United States , a historic passenger ship and once a symbol of American luxury, may soon be "resting" at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico, Interesting Engineering reported on October 2. Okaloosa County, Florida, has signed a preliminary agreement to sink the ship and turn it into the world's largest artificial reef.

Passenger ship SS United States. (Photo: SS United States Conservancy)

Built in 1952, the SS United States was about 300m long, 30m longer than the Titanic and was once the largest passenger ship in the US. It set records for incredible speed and made a splash when it crossed the Atlantic on its maiden voyage.

The SS United States was designed by the renowned naval architect William Francis Gibbs and was built using the most advanced technology of the time. The US government heavily funded the construction of the ship with the intention of converting it into a military transport if needed. The speed and safety features of the SS United States were influenced by military ship design. It was also one of the safest and fastest ships of its time. There was no wood in the passenger areas due to Gibbs' concerns about the risk of fire.

The rise of aviation and other factors led to the SS United States being "retired" in 1969, after only 17 years of service. Several owners attempted to convert the ship into a museum or tourist attraction, but were unsuccessful. As a result, it remained abandoned for decades.

The proposed solution now is to sink the SS United States and turn it into an artificial reef off the coast of Florida. This is seen as an opportunity to preserve the ship while also benefiting the local environment and economy. Once submerged, the SS United States will join a network of more than 500 artificial reefs in the region.

The SS United States' new role as a diving and fishing attraction could bring in millions of dollars a year for local tourism. In addition to the economic potential, converting the ship into a reef will also benefit marine life. Artificial reefs provide shelter and breeding grounds for many species, increasing biodiversity and improving the overall health of the marine ecosystem.