„SS United States“: Ozeankreuzer versenkt - er wird weltgrößtes künstliches Riff

Off the coast of Florida, a record-breaking passenger ship met its demise in the Gulf of Mexico, destined to become the world's largest artificial reef. According to Okaloosa County authorities, the vessel, which measures over 300 meters in length, was intentionally sunk to create an underwater habitat and attract divers from around the globe. To achieve this, more than 400 ballast tanks were removed, and holes were cut into the deck, allowing water to flood the ship and cause it to tilt and sink gradually.

Live footage of the ship's final voyage and sinking was broadcast on YouTube, drawing hundreds of thousands of viewers who commented emotionally about the vessel's service. One user wrote, "May you never be forgotten. Thank you for your service." The SS United States set an impressive record in 1952 when it crossed the Atlantic from New York to Southampton in just three days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes, averaging 66 km/h (36 knots).

The record still stands today. However, after only 17 years of service, the ship was decommissioned in 1969 due to high restoration costs. Despite this, plans to convert the wreck into an artificial reef continued.

The Okaloosa County purchased the ship in 2024 with the intention of sinking it as a reef. This underwater habitat would provide a home for marine life while also becoming a popular diving destination, stimulating tourism in the region. The wreck will rest at a depth of around 55 meters, with the upper deck beginning at approximately 16 to 18 meters of water, ensuring that it can be reached by divers of all certification levels.

A museum dedicated to the ship is planned for land. Destin, Florida, located about 250 kilometers west of Tallahassee, lies on the Gulf Coast and is home to numerous other sunken vessels, including the former aircraft carrier USS Oriskany, which has been lying on the seabed since 2006 near Pensacola.