- 1,000-foot historic ocean liner to become planet's largest man-made reef by 2024
- Three Florida counties compete for $10.1M underwater tourism project
- Reef expected to generate $4.7M annually in dive-related revenue
- Top decks accessible to novice divers at 60-foot depths
- Legal battle continues with preservationists seeking to block sinking
The SS United States, a maritime legend that once carried presidents and shattered trans-Atlantic speed records, is undergoing its final transformation at Alabama's Port of Mobile. Over 300 workers are meticulously removing 28 tons of hazardous materials from the 72-year-old vessel, including legacy asbestos and lead-based paints common in mid-century shipbuilding. This environmental remediation sets a new standard for artificial reef conversions, according to marine engineering experts.
Okaloosa County's artificial reef program director notes the project aligns with growing global trends in marine habitat restoration. Sinking decommissioned vessels reduces pressure on natural coral systems,explains coastal ecologist Dr. Mara Lin. Each shipwreck attracts 14 times more marine life than barren seafloor within 18 months.The SS United States' vertical profile will create distinct ecosystems across its 18 deck levels, from shallow-water sponges to deep-water grouper habitats.
Regional tourism bureaus project the reef could attract 150,000 annual divers, capitalizing on Northwest Florida's $2.3B recreational diving industry. Panama City Beach's 42-vessel dive fleet stands ready to service the site, while Pensacola promoters highlight proximity to the USS Oriskany aircraft carrier reef. This creates an underwater heritage trail,says Dive South Florida Association president Carlos Mendez. Divers spend 73% more when combining multiple wreck sites in one trip.
Controversy surrounds the project as preservationists argue the National Historic Landmark deserves dry-dock restoration. However, project engineers counter that corrosion has left 60% of the hull irreparable. Without reefing, this piece of naval history would become razor blades,states marine architect Rebecca Cho. The county's compromise includes a $1M interactive museum featuring the ship's radar technology that later influenced Cold War missile tracking systems.
When deployed in 180 feet of water, the reef will offer multi-level diving experiences unmatched in continental U.S. waters. Advanced divers can explore engine rooms at 140-foot depths, while snorkelers observe surface-level marine growth. Marine biologists predict the site will increase local fish stocks by 40% within five years, benefiting both recreational anglers and commercial fisheries.