End of an Era: Historic SS United States Transferred to New Owners

The iconic SS United States is set to embark on its final journey – not across the Atlantic, but towards a new life as the world’s largest artificial reef.

On Saturday, October 12, 2024, the SS United States Conservancy formally transferred the title of the historic ocean liner to Okaloosa County, Florida, marking a significant turning point in the ship’s storied legacy.

This $10.1 million project represents a innovative solution for preserving the vessel, which has been docked in Philadelphia since 1996.

The transfer of ownership comes after a protracted legal dispute with the pier operator and offers a “more dignified option” compared to the alternative of scrapping. A court-ordered mediation between the SS United States Conservancy and Penn Warehousing resulted in a settlement agreement, ending over two years of litigation. The confidential settlement, awaiting final court disposition, led to limited financial liability for the Conservancy. Despite the judge rejecting Penn Warehousing’s claims for doubled rent, the settlement maintains the court’s original ruling that the SS United States must promptly vacate its pier.

The SS United States Conservancy evaluated numerous proposals to purchase and relocate the ship, but none met its due diligence requirements or timing constraints. A promising five-year collaboration with a New York developer for a mixed-use destination fell through due to difficulties securing a pier location and lack of government support.

With no viable options to preserve the SS United States and facing the binding court order, the Conservancy had to make a difficult decision: scrap America’s Flagship or transform her into an artificial reef with an accompanying land-based museum. It chose the latter as the “most dignified path.”

“Converting the world’s fastest ship into the world’s largest artificial reef will write a new chapter for the SS United States as a world-class destination,” said Susan Gibbs, President of the SS United States Conservancy.

The SS United States, launched in 1951, holds a special place in maritime history. It still holds the transatlantic speed record and has a rich history of transporting presidents, celebrities, and immigrants. During the Cold War, it was designed as a convertible troop carrier capable of transporting 14,000 troops 10,000 miles without refueling.

“This accomplishment confirms our commitment to remain good stewards of the environment, while also enhancing our community’s status as a premier diving and fishing destination,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission projects an impressive 13,800% return on investment for artificial reefs in the Florida Panhandle, underscoring the project’s economic potential.

The process will involve extensive environmental remediation, expected to take over a year, followed by six months to a year for deployment. While the exact location off Destin-Fort Walton Beach is yet to be determined, it will be accessible to divers of various skill levels.

As part of the project, a state-of-the-art land-based museum will be constructed to honor and recognize the history of “America’s Flagship” and ensure that the ship continues to inspire and educate future generations about its significant role in American maritime history.

The next steps involve moving the ship to Norfolk, Virginia, in the coming weeks for necessary preparations before its final deployment as an artificial reef.

Once submerged, the nearly 1,000-foot-long vessel will become a thriving habitat for marine life and a world-class attraction for divers and anglers.

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