DESTIN, Fla. – The historic ocean liner SS United States has become the United States’ largest artificial reef, and the news is already sparking excitement among local dive shops and tourism leaders. The sunken ship sits off the coast of Okaloosa County, offering a unique underwater destination that promises to draw divers from far‑flung locales such as Australia.
Local businesses anticipate surge in charter and training demand
Trevor Dell, owner of Discovery Dive World and Fort Walton Beach Scuba, said the reef’s size puts it in a category of its own and places it on the bucket list for divers worldwide. “We’ve had people reach out from Australia already,” Dell explained. “The fact that she is the biggest puts her in a category by herself, and puts her on the bucket list for every single diver in the world.”
For dive operators, the influx could translate into a noticeable uptick in charter trips and advanced certification courses. “We anticipate, number one, seeing a significant uptick in the number of charters for folks wanting to go out and dive on her,” Dell added. “We’re also going to see, like I said, an uptick in training, more advanced training, like nitrox, advanced, wreck diver, deep diver courses that will certify them to be able to enjoy the dive a lot more.”
Tourism officials project $10‑15 million annual economic impact
Jennifer Adams, director of the Okaloosa County Tourist Development Council, put a dollar figure on the expected boost. “We expect and anticipate, probably about, just diving alone, this vessel, 10 to 15 million dollars more a year,” she said. The council believes the impact will ripple beyond the water, as visitors will need to eat, shop, and purchase equipment locally.
“They have to eat, and they shop,” Adams noted. “They have equipment that they have to get, so that helps us with our philosophy of people coming year‑round.” The council also highlighted the broader regional benefit, noting that divers may travel to neighboring Bay County and Pensacola for lodging, dining, and other activities, keeping money circulating throughout Northwest Florida.
Future reef projects and a museum plan
The SS United States joins a growing list of artificial reefs and sunken vessels that already enhance Okaloosa’s underwater attractions. Five additional ships are slated for deployment in the near future, further expanding the county’s reputation as a premier diving destination.
For residents and visitors who do not dive, the Tourist Development Council and the SS United States Conservancy are developing a museum that will showcase preserved artifacts and the ship’s iconic twin funnels. The museum aims to provide an educational experience that complements the underwater adventure.
Community response
Local officials and business owners expressed optimism that the reef will reinforce Okaloosa County’s tourism strategy, which emphasizes year‑round visitation and diversified economic activity. By leveraging the unique appeal of the SS United States, the county hopes to attract higher‑spending tourists and create new jobs in the marine‑service sector.
“This is a real win for our community,” Adams concluded. “It aligns with our goal of building a vibrant, resilient economy that supports families and preserves the natural beauty of our coastal waters.”
Original reporting: FOX10 WALA Mobile (news) — read the source article.
