Okaloosa County to Sink SS United States Off Florida in November

Okaloosa County expects to sink the SS United States about 22 nautical miles southwest of Destin, Florida, in the second week of November 2026, timing subject to weather. The nearly 1,000-foot liner set a transatlantic speed record on its 1952 maiden voyage and is meant to become what supporters hope will be the world's largest artificial reef, joining more than 500 in the region. County officials said, "This is an exciting move forward to create a one-of-a-kind resource for the environment and for our tourism industry." Officials say the ship has completed required environmental remediation; the Army Corps of Engineers has scheduled final deployment. Tugboats moved it from Philadelphia in 2025. CONTESTED: No contested factual claims found on date, location, or ship specs. The New York Coalition to Save the SS United States called the plan "a slap in the face to the countless citizens — across all 50 states and around the world" and said "SHAME on anyone who conspired in silence against the will of We the People." Its petition has more than 16,000 signatures. Signers wrote the ship is "an irreplaceable piece of American maritime history and a National Historic Landmark" and "This ship is every bit as important as the Statue of Liberty! Please don't lose your history." The SS United States Conservancy told Newsweek in 2024 it acted "with no viable options" for renovation after local leaders "did not embrace the project." Opponents want a floating landmark and raise possible water contamination concerns.