- SS United States’ departure delayed by Coast Guard.
- Ship to undergo remediation in Mobile, then sunk off Florida as an artificial reef.
- $10.1M project shifts focus from preservation to marine habitat.
- Final journey requires careful coordination for safe passage.
The SS United States, an iconic ocean liner docked in Philadelphia since 1996, has encountered another setback in its planned departure. The U.S. Coast Guard has requested additional details to ensure safe towing operations between Piers 82 and 80, delaying the vessel’s scheduled departure on February 8. Originally planned for November, the ship’s pier transfer had already been rescheduled for February 6 at 8:21 p.m. during the second high tide, according to gCaptain.
Journey to Mobile and Future as an Artificial Reef
The ship is destined for Mobile, Alabama, where it will undergo a 12-month environmental remediation process. Once completed, the SS United States will be intentionally sunk off the coast of Okaloosa County, Florida, creating the world’s largest artificial reef. To minimize fuel consumption and avoid challenging ocean currents, the 14-day journey will follow a coastal route.
A Shift in Preservation Efforts
This $10.1 million project signifies a significant change in the ship’s fate. Previously owned by the SS United States Conservancy, the vessel was officially transferred to Florida’s Okaloosa County in October 2024 after a legal dispute with its pier landlord. Rather than being restored for commercial or historical purposes, the ship will now serve as a marine habitat, marking a new chapter in its storied history.
A Legacy of Speed and Strength
Since its launch in 1951, the SS United States has held the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing. Built during the Cold War, the ship was designed to function as both a luxury liner and a high-capacity troop carrier, capable of transporting 14,000 troops over 10,000 miles without refueling. Its innovative design and unmatched speed cemented its place in maritime history.
Final Deployment and Logistical Considerations
Following remediation in Mobile, the ship will remain there for an additional six months to a year before its final submersion near Destin-Fort Walton Beach. The SS United States Conservancy is working with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure all necessary safety measures and approvals are in place.
The ship’s departure from Philadelphia will require close coordination with the Delaware River Port Authority to manage bridge closures as it passes under major spans, including the Walt Whitman Bridge (I-76), Commodore Barry Bridge (U.S. 322), and the Delaware Memorial Bridge (I-295). These efforts are crucial to ensuring a smooth and safe transition as the vessel embarks on its historic final voyage.
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Source: gCaptain
