The towering funnels of the legendary SS United States will soon be removed from the historic ocean liner in Mobile, Alabama. Soaring six stories high and sloping backward to convey the record-breaking speed of the ship, the iconic structures will form a dramatic centerpiece of the future SS United States Museum and Visitor Experience. The aft funnel is expected to be removed soon after the forward funnel. The ship is now being prepared for deployment as the “world’s largest artificial reef” off the coast of Florida’s Destin-Fort Walton Beach.
The SS United States, America’s Flagship, arrived in Mobile, Alabama today after an approximately 1,800-mile tow from her berth in Philadelphia. The iconic national symbol and last surviving American ocean liner will now undergo preparations for her deployment as the “World’s Largest Artificial Reef” off Florida’s Gulf Coast near Destin-Fort Walton Beach.
“Today, the nation’s sole surviving ocean liner will glide down the Delaware River to begin the next chapter in her uniquely American story. As the fastest ship to ever cross the Atlantic travels for the first time since arriving in Philadelphia in 1996, we are reminded of the postwar high-water mark that the SS United States so gracefully and powerfully embodied when she was launched in 1951.”
“This week the SS United States Conservancy participated in a court-ordered confidential mediation following our motion to extend the deadline to move the ship from Philadelphia’s Pier 82. Progress toward addressing a range of issues was made, but it will require additional time and discussions to come to an amicable resolution to this dispute.
“As a result, Judge Anita Brody issued an order temporarily suspending the deadline for the removal of the vessel pending additional negotiations between the parties. The Conservancy’s efforts in the days ahead will continue to center around conducting good faith negotiations and ensuring that the legacy of America’s Flagship endures and inspires for future generations. We will continue to work tirelessly to chart the best possible forward course for the SS United States given the constraints placed upon us by this litigation.”
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