The historic Transatlantic liner SS United States (1951-built, IMO 5373476, USA-flagged/registered in New York City), once celebrated as the fastest ocean liner globally, has concluded its final journey ahead of schedule.
After ~3 decades moored along Philadelphia's Delaware River waterfront, the historic vessel departed on February 19th, 2025, embarking on a 1,800-mile voyage to Mobile (Alabama) where it will be prepared for transformation into an artificial reef.
The ship arrived in Mobile on March 3rd, 2025, two days earlier than planned. SS United States Conservancy President Susan Gibbs noted that, in line with its record-setting legacy, the vessel completed its journey from Philadelphia to Mobile faster than anticipated. As it traversed the waves for the first time in 28 years, numerous observers along the eastern seaboard were moved by its grandeur and elegance.
The SS United States will now undergo a remediation process in Mobile, involving the removal of materials such as command bridge components, engine room equipment, wiring, cables, loose items, flooring, furnishings, fuel, paint, and potential contaminants, including asbestos. This phase is expected to extend through the end of the year.
Upon completion of the remediation, the vessel will be relocated to Florida's Okaloosa County. Plans include creating a museum and visitor center near the site where the SS United States will be submerged to form the world's largest artificial reef.
Additionally, the SS United States Conservancy has indicated that a documentary chronicling the ship's storied history is in development.