Okaloosa County to Sink SS United States Off Florida in November

Florida’s Okaloosa County expects to sink the historic SS United States about 22 nautical miles southwest of Destin in the second week of November, with timing subject to weather, to create what supporters hope will be the world’s largest artificial reef. The nearly 1,000-foot liner set a transatlantic speed record on its 1952 maiden voyage; preservation efforts failed amid the high cost of saving it. County officials say the ship has been remediated, and supporters expect it to attract marine life, divers and tourism spending. Preservationists continue to oppose the plan, arguing the vessel should remain a floating landmark and raising concerns about possible water contamination; a coalition has also petitioned to save it.