The SS United States has officially began its journey out of Philadelphia after nearly 30 years and several months of delays, writes Danielle Ellis for 6abc.
On Wednesday, February 19, the historic vessel left its longtime home in South Philadelphia and started going toward the Delaware River.
As of the morning of Thursday, February 20, the SS United States is in the Atlantic Ocean, just off the Delaware coastline. It is expected to pass through Cape May, New Jersey, as well.
This is the beginning of a long journey for the SS United States, where it will eventually end up in the gulf coast, where officials in Florida are planning to turn it into the world’s largest artificial reef.
Prior to its arrival to Florida, the ship will travel to Mobile, Alabama, where it will be prepped for its eventually sinking off the Florida panhandle.
According to officials, this is expected to be a two-week-long journey and can be tracked here.
In its decision to turn the historic ocean liner into an artificial reef, Okaloosa County officials hopes it will become a new destination for scuba divers, as well as attract fish and other wildlife.
Read more about the SS United States’ long history before coming to its final chapter in 6abc.
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