The SS United States, a former passenger liner that once held the record as the fastest ship in the world, is set to be sunk off the coast of Florida to become the world's largest artificial reef, despite some parties wanting to preserve the ship in a museum.
The historic passenger ship SS United States, once hailed as the fastest passenger liner globally and longer than the Titanic, is preparing to be sunk off the coast of Florida, USA. It will be transformed into the world's largest artificial reef, serving as a habitat for marine life and an underwater attraction for diving enthusiasts.
The SS United States was docked in Philadelphia for nearly 30 years before being moved to Florida after a Florida county purchased the ship. Plans are underway to sink it underwater on Wednesday using precise controlled methods without explosives.
Previously, the SS United States began transatlantic service in 1952 and ceased operations in 1969. It hosted numerous prominent global figures, including former U.S. presidents Harry Truman, Dwight Eisenhower, and John F. Kennedy, as well as former president Bill Clinton, who traveled on the ship as a teenager.
Additionally, celebrities such as Marlon Brando, Coco Chanel, Duke Ellington, Salvador Dalí, Walt Disney, Judy Garland, and Cary Grant also sailed on this ship.
There were initial efforts to preserve this historic ship as a museum or convert it into a floating hotel, but none succeeded. The SS United States Conservancy group continuously fought to keep the ship afloat but ultimately could not change the plan.
Susan Gibbs, president of the SS United States Conservancy and granddaughter of one of the ship’s designers, said she is glad the ship's story will continue. She views the ship as a symbol of American pride that connects many people.
Before heading to the coast of Destin, Florida, the SS United States was moved from Philadelphia to Alabama last year for cleaning and refurbishment before its final journey to the seabed.
.source:BBC
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