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The SS United States is being sunk on purpose off the coast of Florida : NPR
NPR • • general
Key Points:
- The SS United States, a retired ocean liner longer than the Titanic, was deliberately sunk off the coast of Florida to create the world’s largest artificial reef, now resting 180 feet underwater in the Gulf of Mexico.
- The ship, which held the trans-Atlantic speed record for over 60 years and could have been converted into a military transport during wartime, will now serve as a habitat for marine life and a diving attraction.
- Susan Gibbs, chair of the SS United States Conservancy and granddaughter of the ship’s designer, expressed mixed emotions, mourning the ship’s final form but hopeful for its new role in the ocean ecosystem.
- The conservancy initially aimed to transform the ship into a hotel or museum but sold it to Okaloosa County, Florida, due to legal and financial challenges, leading to the county’s decision to sink the vessel.
- The sinking was managed by Coleen Marine, who preserved the ship’s original design and ensured it sank upright after extensive hull repairs and cleaning; a museum honoring the ship is planned in Florida.
