SS United States to become the world's largest artificial reef.
 

The SS United States is on its way to become the world's largest artificial reef. Right now, she is about 30 miles east of Ft. Pierce, being towed to Port Mobile for a cleanup. Okaloosa County paid about $10 million for her. Eventually, she will probably be submerged about 20 miles south of the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area.

Capt. Mike Vinik of the tugboat, Vinik No. 6, took this pic.

My wife sailed on her across the Atlantic in 1959 to join me (in the Army/Germany).

sad wish it would have become a floating museum like the queen mary

YouTube video of the final voyage.

https://youtu.be/Yel57ljzVas?si=KzjfS426GmRV6Yvm

Queen Mary is a hotel in Long Beach, CA. I’ve been there. Though i didn’t stay, I did have a drink at one of the bars. So I guess it’s a floating Hotel/restaurant/museum.

We stay on her one night before a cruise. Fascinating what cruising was like 75 or so years ago.

If you are interested in seeing cruise ships that have been sold for scrap, google “retired cruise ships”. A lot were sold for scrap during Covid.

It's a little sad. I've been seeing it for years docked in Philadelphia and always thought it would neat if it got cleaned up nd used for some purpose. I suppose that's what is happening, but not really what I had in mind. May she rest in peace.

I’m wondering how is the US ship being steered, are there personal on board. When you’re pulling a vehicle with a tow cable, you need someone to steer the vehicle being towed. I would think the same applies. But the steering mechanism for the Rutter must rusted as hell. But what do I know?

Watch the YouTube video that Ranger99 posted about above. It will explain some things. Video... click here.

The ship being towed is not being steered at sea. In port, it is maneuvered by tugboats. There are personnel aboard, a Captain and some "crew" to handle the lines and keep tabs on the portable navigation lights.

Very informative and interesting video.
Thanx!