The American ship became the world’s largest artificial reef

SS United States, a historic passenger ship and once a symbol of American luxury, may soon “rest” at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico. Interesting Engineering reported on October 2. Okaloosa County, Florida, has signed a preliminary agreement to sink the ship and turn it into the world’s largest artificial reef.

Built in 1952, the SS United States is about 300 meters long, 30 meters longer than the Titanic and was once the largest passenger ship in the US. It set an astonishing speed record and impressed by crossing the Atlantic Ocean on its first ocean voyage.

SS United States was designed by famous naval architect William Francis Gibbs and built using the most advanced technology of its time. The US government heavily funded the ship’s construction with the intention of converting it into a military transport ship if needed. The high speed and safety characteristics of the SS United States were influenced by military ship design. This was also one of the safest and fastest ships of its time. There was absolutely no wood in the passenger areas due to Gibbs’ concerns about the risk of fire and explosion.

The development of aviation and many other factors led to the “retirement” of the SS United States in 1969, after only 17 years of service. Several owners have tried unsuccessfully to convert the ship into a museum or tourist attraction. As a result, it was abandoned for decades.

Currently, the proposed solution is to sink the SS United States, turning it into an artificial reef off the coast of Florida. This solution was seen as an opportunity to preserve the ship, while also benefiting the environment and local economy. Once submerged, the SS United States will join a network of more than 500 artificial reefs in the region.

SS United States’ new role will be as a diving and fishing attraction, which could bring in millions of dollars each year for the local tourism industry. In addition to economic potential, converting ships into coral reefs also benefits marine life. Artificial reefs provide shelter and breeding grounds for many species, increasing biodiversity and enhancing the overall health of marine ecosystems.