The launch operation of the historic S.S. United States, one of the last survivors of the ocean liner era, will begin on November 12, 2023 (weather permitting). This announcement follows 19 months of efforts to prepare the ship for its deployment as the world's largest artificial reef.
Scheduling Details and Preparation Stages
Commissioners of Okaloosa County in Florida have announced that the operation will begin at 10 a.m. local time. According to them, all necessary permits from state and federal agencies have been obtained for the operation. Additionally, it is planned that the ship's hull will be moved to the launch site from Dock 4 on the Mobile River in Alabama a few days before the launch date. The ship is expected to depart the dock on November 9. The U.S. Coast Guard will establish a 100-yard safety zone around the ship and support vessels for this operation.
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Final Launch Site and Farewell Ceremony
The final launch site will be approximately 22 nautical miles southwest of the Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida shores (proposed location: 30° 07.148' N, 86° 46.755' W). According to Coast Guard guidelines, vessels are required to remain at least one nautical mile away from the launch site until the sinking operation is completed. A farewell ceremony and festival will also be held at the Destin-Fort Walton Convention Center on November 11. This event will include a program to watch the live launch operation on November 12.
Over the past 19 months, various teams have worked on clearing the ship of hazardous materials such as electrical wiring and loose paint. Additionally, all windows and hatches have been removed, and some hazardous components like the elevator have also been taken out. The preservation efforts have resulted in the rescue of some historical components of the ship, which are intended to be used at the visitor center and coastal museum.
The S.S. United States, which served commercially for only 17 years, still holds the title of the fastest passenger ship. The ship broke speed records on its maiden voyage in 1952 and is recognized as a symbol of the United States' commercial maritime power. The ship was retired in 1969 and has been awaiting reuse for 57 years.
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