On Wednesday, Feb. 19, the SS United States, once the fastest ocean liner in the world, then a rapidly decaying legend nestled on the Delaware River waterfront in South Philadelphia for nearly 30 years, made one last voyage.
Although this journey would be by tow, it was perfectly fitting for the historic vessel as it arrived two days ahead of schedule to its destination in Mobile, Alabama, on Monday, after an approximately 1,800-mile journey.
“In the spirit of her record-breaking history, America’s Flagship concluded her journey from Philadelphia to Mobile faster than anticipated. As she moved through the waves for the first time in 28 years, countless onlookers and admirers along the country’s eastern seaboard were inspired by her majesty and beauty,” said SS United States Conservancy President Susan Gibbs in a statement on the historic 401st voyage of the world’s fastest ocean liner.
As it is also known, America’s Flagship will now prepare for its next chapter and undergo preparations to be transformed into a dynamic and immersive museum and visitor’s center that will celebrate the ship and its place in American history.
Once complete, it will be deployed as the “World’s Largest Artificial Reef” off Florida’s Gulf Coast near Destin-Fort Walton Beach and will be the first artificial reef to be paired with a unique shoreside museum and visitor’s center, according to the SS United States Conservancy.
The Conservancy also announced that there will be a documentary film telling the storied history of the SS United States that is currently in production.
