Historic SS United States Begins Sinking Toward Gulf Artificial Reef

The historic SS UnitedStates began its descent Wednesday off the Florida Panhandle as Okaloosa County prepared to sink the vessel and create what officials describe as the world’s largest artificial reef. The ship, which spent nearly three decades docked at Philadelphia’s Pier 82, was lowered toward the seafloor about 22 miles off Destin despite large openings cut into its hull.

"She was designed to be unsinkable, and that fact has definitely given our crews some challenges today," said Nick Tomecek, a spokesperson for Okaloosa County.

Spectators gathered onshore and aboard hundreds of boats to watch the event. Maritime historians noted that the liner’s designer, William Francis Gibbs, incorporated safety features after earlier disasters, contributing to its reputation for durability.

"William Francis Gibbs said you can't burn her, you can't catch her and you can't sink her," said Bill Magee of Delran, New Jersey, who traveled to observe the sinking.

Supporters of the SS UnitedStates Conservancy, which fought legal battles to preserve the ship, said the vessel’s continued buoyancy underscored its solid construction.

"It was a solid ship. It still is," said Warren Jones of the SS UnitedStates Conservancy.

Officials indicated the ship is still descending slowly and is expected to reach the seafloor, though the exact timing remains uncertain.