SS United States sunk off Florida panhandle to become world's largest artificial reef

The SS United States, an iconic ocean liner, has been intentionally sunk off Florida's Gulf Coast to create the world's largest artificial reef, according to reports from CBS News and the Pensacola News Journal.

The vessel, which was being scuttled off the coast of Florida's panhandle, completed its final journey Thursday as crews executed the controlled sinking. Officials confirmed the ship was fully submerged as part of the planned operation.

The project transforms the historic liner—once a symbol of American maritime travel—into a marine habitat that will support fish populations and diving tourism in the region. The artificial reef is expected to attract divers and support local marine ecosystems in the waters off Northwest Florida.