Historic ocean liner SS United States to become world's largest artificial reef

The historic SS United States ocean liner will be intentionally sunk off Florida to build a major artificial reef.

The historic ocean liner SS United States is being prepared for intentional sinking off the Florida coast, where it will become the world's largest artificial reef. The vessel had spent nearly 30 years decaying at a pier in Philadelphia following prolonged legal disputes over its berth. Before the scuttling takes place, crews must complete environmental remediation and secure final regulatory permissions.

• Environmental cleanupCrews must remove hazardous materials and obtain official regulatory clearance before scuttling the vessel.
• Preserving historyOfficials plan to build an onshore visitor center to honor the vessel's legacy as a fast trans-Atlantic passenger liner.
• Economic impactLocal authorities anticipate the artificial reef will boost tourism by attracting scuba divers and recreational fishers.