Story perspectives

SS United States to Become Largest Artificial Reef in 2026

11/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

The SS United States will become the world’s largest artificial reef when sunk off Florida’s Gulf Coast in 2026.
Okaloosa County officials plan to sink the nearly 1,000-foot vessel about 22 nautical miles southwest of Destin.
Project costs $10.1 million, funded by $1.5 million from Pensacola tourism officials and $500,000 from Coastal Conservation Association Florida.
Despite ongoing legal challenges, the reef will provide habitat for marine life and attract divers.

1 of 1

Story summary

The SS United States will become the world’s largest artificial reef when sunk off Florida’s Gulf Coast in 2026.
Okaloosa County officials plan to sink the nearly 1,000-foot vessel about 22 nautical miles southwest of Destin.
Project costs $10.1 million, funded by $1.5 million from Pensacola tourism officials and $500,000 from Coastal Conservation Association Florida.
Despite ongoing legal challenges, the reef will provide habitat for marine life and attract divers.