Okaloosa County shifts SS United States reef sinking to Nov. 11
High winds forecast for Nov. 12 forced the county to pull the deployment forward to Veterans Day, with work starting at 2 p.m.
By Oliver Bennett ·
Okaloosa County moved the deployment of the SS United States to Nov. 11 after forecasters predicted heavy winds and unsafe conditions for the originally planned date of Nov. 12. The vessel, which will become the world’s largest artificial reef, will be sunk with operations beginning at 2 p.m. on the new date.
The decision was made to avoid weather risks that could complicate the operation. Okaloosa County Board Chairman Trey Goodwin stated that safety remains the top priority for the county. He noted that adjusting the schedule allows the team to carry out the deployment safely and smoothly without taking unnecessary risks.
Goodwin also commented on the timing, saying the weather change gave the occasion a meaningful date. He said the county will honor the legacy of the SS United States on Veterans Day, recognizing the men and women who served the nation and the ship that bears the country’s name.
A sendoff ceremony previously scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Nov. 11 has been canceled. The county is coordinating with safety and security partners to ensure an efficient deployment. Bystanders on the water are expected to follow guidance from safety boats stationed at the site.
A live viewing party is planned at AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar in Destin beginning at noon on Nov. 11. Attendees can watch a live feed from the deployment site on a large outdoor screen. The live viewing link will be shared on thessus.com before the deployment begins.
The artificial reef project was fully funded by tourism revenue and contributions from multiple partners. The SS United States has completed remediation, and a 3D model of the ship is available for public viewing online.
