SS United States, historic 20th century ocean liner, leaves Philadelphia after 30 years

After almost 30 years docked in Philadelphia, the SS United States is setting sail once again. The vessel, once the fastest ocean liner to cross the Atlantic, is being relocated in preparation for its next chapter, which is becoming an artificial reef off the Gulf of Mexico.

The departure marks the first time the ship has moved in nearly three decades, with maritime fans eagerly watching its progress.

The ocean liner began its movement from Pier 82 to Pier 80 last Friday, and today, it will continue its journey down the Delaware River. It is expected to reach Mobile, Alabama, within two weeks, where final preparations will be made before its transformation into a marine habitat, reported CBS News.

Tracking the SS United States’ voyage

For those keen to follow the ship’s progress, a GPS tracking system will be activated once the vessel begins its relocation. Live tracking will be available, allowing people to monitor the ship’s real-time movement as it makes its way to Alabama.

As the SS United States leaves Philadelphia, it will pass under several bridges, including the Walt Whitman Bridge, the Commodore Barry Bridge and the Delaware Memorial Bridge.

Also Read : Shiba Inu, Dogecoin's open interest rates stumble over 50%; is it game over for meme coins?

The Delaware River Port Authority has provided the following expected traffic hold times:

Walt Whitman Bridge: 12:45 pm to 1 pm.

Commodore Barry Bridge: 4:45 pm to 5:45 pm.

The Delaware Memorial Bridge will not be closed, as it offers sufficient clearance for the ship to pass beneath without disruption.

SS United States’ next chapter

The SS United States, which was originally designed as both a luxury liner and a military transport vessel, is now heading towards a new purpose. Okaloosa County, Florida, acquired the ship for $10 million in October 2024, with plans to submerge it off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach.

In addition to its role as an artificial reef, a land-based museum will be established to showcase its history.

SS United States’ legacy

Since its launch in 1951, the SS United States has been an emblem of American innovation. Originally built for military purposes, it was later converted into a passenger liner. Over its 17-year service, it carried many well-known personalities, including four US Presidents: Harry Truman, Dwight Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy and a young Bill Clinton. It also carried icons like Marilyn Monroe, Walt Disney and Judy Garland.

Also Read : 'He’s growing up': Jason Kelce talks about Taylor Swift’s impact on brother Travis Kelce

FAQs

1. How can you track the SS United States as it leaves Philadelphia?

You can follow the ship’s journey through GPS tracking, which will be activated once the vessel begins its movement. Real-time updates will be available.

1. Why is the SS United States being turned into an artificial reef?

The ship’s transformation into an artificial reef is part of an initiative to promote marine biodiversity. A dedicated museum will also be created to preserve the ship’s history and legacy.