Nobody knows what to do with the storied ocean liner, once heralded for its transatlantic speed. It plied the waters between 1952 and 1969, sailing at top speeds of around 44 mph, making the trip from New York to Cornwall, U.K. in record time at three days and 10 hours. 

Recently, the modern cruise industry took a closer look at restoring "The Big U," including luxury lines such as Norwegian and Crystal. Stuck in drydock in Philadelphia since 1996, the ship now faces eviction from that pier.

Now she may be readying for a final voyage to be sunk off the northwest coast of Florida and used as an artificial reef. On Oct. 1, 2024, the Board of County Commissioners in Okaloosa County, Florida announced approval of a contingent contract to acquire the ship "that could see the historic ocean liner converted into the world's largest artificial reef." 

Tourism officials envision the ship as a way to enhance its reputation as a diving and fishing destination. "The SS United States will be an exciting addition to the many artificial reefs and wrecks available in Destin-Fort Walton Beach for divers to explore while providing essential habitat for the fishery that our fleet is so dependent on," said tourism director Jennifer Adams.

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