SS United States Has Been Sunk as a Reef - What Happens Next?

As a marine ecologist and keen scuba diver, I’ve long been fascinated by what happens when a large structure is introduced to the sea. Within hours, microscopic organisms begin colonising its surfaces, forming a thin biological layer. Over the following months and years, barnacles, mussels, sponges and other marine life become established, creating a new habitat that attracts fish and a diverse range of species.

This week, one of the world’s most famous ocean liners, the SS United States, was sunk off the coast of Florida. At 302 meters long, it has become the world’s largest artificial reef. It is a very exciting prospect to one day dive on such a giant, and to see how it changes as marine life makes it home.

The SS United States was built as a luxury ocean liner, and its maiden voyage in 1952 captured the coveted Blue Riband by crossing the Atlantic in only three days and ten hours – a passenger liner record that remains unbroken.

As the years went by, commercial jetliners superseded transatlantic sea travel, and the vessel was retired and neglected for decades. Rather than facing the ignominy of a breaker’s yard, the legendary ship was bought by Okaloosa County, Florida, to turn it into a diving attraction.

This story was originally published by The Maritime Executive. Read the full story at The Maritime Executive →