Due to forecast heavy winds and unsafe weather conditions on Thursday, Okaloosa County is moving up the date to deploy the SS United States as the World’s Largest Artificial Reef to Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, with deployment operations beginning at 1 p.m. CST. The sendoff ceremony scheduled for Nov. 11 at 1:30 p.m. has been canceled.
“Safety is always a top priority in Okaloosa County,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Trey Goodwin. “There is simply no reason to take an unnecessary risk when adjusting the schedule will allow us to carry out this historic deployment safely and smoothly.”
“While the weather may have changed our plans, it has given this historic occasion an especially meaningful date. On Veterans Day, as we honor the men and women who served our nation, we will also honor the legacy of the SS United States, a magnificent ship that proudly bears the name of the country they so bravely defended.”
Virtual Event on Deployment Day – Nov. 11
A live viewing party will be held at AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar in Destin beginning at noon, where a live feed from the deployment site will be viewable on the large outdoor screen. The live viewing link will be shared on thessus.com pre-deployment.
In-person Viewing on Nov. 11
The deployment of the SS United States will potentially draw hundreds of vessels. Okaloosa County is working with our safety and security partners for a safe and efficient deployment and bystanders are expected to follow the guidance from the safety boats present at the deployment site. Proposed deployment location: 30° 07.148' N, 86° 46.755' W
More information
• For a comprehensive look into the ship’s history, go to: https://www.ssusc.org/
• A 3D model of the ship is available at: https://www.destinfwb.com/explore/eco-tourism/artificial-reefs/3d-models/
• Read a summary of the completed remediation of the ship at https://www.destinfwb.com/explore/eco-tourism/ssus/ssus-remediation-updates/
The SS United States artificial reef project was fully funded by tourism revenue and multiple partner contributions.
