Sunk ocean liner to become the world’s largest artificial reef

Key Points:

• The former SS United States, once a record-setting ocean liner, will be sunk off the Florida panhandle to become the world's largest artificial reef and the largest vessel on the Florida Panhandle Shipwreck Trail.
• The ship, famed for its 1952 Atlantic crossing record and use by US presidents and celebrities, was designed for rapid conversion to troop transport and is notable for its aluminum construction and speed.
• After retirement in 1969 and decades of inactivity, the vessel was purchased by Okaloosa County, Florida, and prepared for sinking to promote marine life and boost regional tourism following environmental setbacks like the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
• Marine scientists expect the SS United States to quickly become a thriving habitat for diverse marine species and a popular dive site accessible to recreational divers due to its size and depth.
• The SS United States Conservancy plans to establish a museum near dive embarkation points to preserve the ship's history and display artifacts, including its removed funnels, further enhancing educational and tourism opportunities.