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Divers Capture First Look at Sunken Ocean Liner
Newser • • nation
Key Points:
- The SS United States, a 990-foot ocean liner longer than the Titanic, was intentionally sunk 180 feet underwater in the Gulf of Mexico near Destin, Florida, to become the world's largest artificial reef.
- The controlled sinking, part of a $13.5 million project by Okaloosa County, aims to attract divers, anglers, and marine life, with the ship's top deck resting just 60 feet below the surface for easy access.
- Divers have already observed marine life inhabiting the ship, and the vessel was thoroughly cleaned before sinking to ensure environmental safety.
- The SS United States made over 800 Atlantic crossings since its 1952 maiden voyage and was docked in Philadelphia for nearly 30 years while preservation efforts were underway.
- Okaloosa County plans to build a museum featuring the original smokestacks to honor the ship's history.
