The historic, aging ocean liner that a Florida county plans to turn into the world’s largest artificial reef departed from south Philadelphia’s Delaware River waterfront on Wednesday, marking the opening segment of its final voyage.
The SS United States, a technological marvel when it hit the water in 1952 and broke the transatlantic speed record, was expected to leave Pier 80 in Philadelphia and begin its journey down the Delaware River around 12:51 p.m. Wednesday.
The ship was previously scheduled to depart for Mobile on Nov. 14 but was delayed due to weather concerns then delayed further after the Coast Guard requested further research to ensure it was safe to move, according to county public information officer Nick Tomecek.