PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania (WPVI) — It's moving day for the SS United States! The iconic ocean liner has started its journey down the Delaware River, marking its departure from Philadelphia on Wednesday.
“Today’s the day. She’s ready to go,” said Warren Jones, a board member of the SS United States Conservancy. Jones shared a nostalgic photo from when he traveled on the ship to Europe as an 8-year-old. Now, as a conservancy board member, he’s helping guide the ship’s next chapter.
“It’s bittersweet,” he said. “It’s not the ending we hoped for, but it’s good to know the ship will be cared for and given new life instead of being sent to a scrapyard.”
The historic vessel has been a fixture along the Delaware River in South Philadelphia for nearly 30 years but is now heading toward the Gulf Coast. This move follows a series of legal challenges and delays, but the ship’s new owners say they’ve met the necessary safety standards for its relocation.
The SS United States was sold to Okaloosa County, Florida, last year with plans to transform it into the world’s largest artificial reef.
Tugboats positioned around 11 a.m. began the ship’s journey down the river by noon, taking advantage of low tide. The ship will pass under several bridges, including the Walt Whitman Bridge (I-76), the Commodore Barry Bridge (US 322), and the Delaware Memorial Bridge (I-295). The Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) will manage temporary bridge closures during the ship's passage.
Motorists should expect brief traffic pauses on these bridges. The Walt Whitman Bridge was temporarily halted around 12:40 p.m., and the Commodore Barry Bridge will likely be paused between 4:45 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. These pauses are intended to minimize distractions for drivers as the ship passes underneath, though timing may shift depending on weather and river conditions. Drivers are advised to plan ahead and check traffic updates.
Towing the SS United States during low tide is crucial, especially since the ship holds the record for the world’s tallest smokestacks at 65 feet—equivalent to a six-story building.
The first phase of the move took place last week during the Eagles' victory parade. The ship was moved from Pier 82, where it had been docked for decades, to Pier 80 to facilitate its departure.
Onlookers gathered early Wednesday for a final glimpse of the ship before it heads toward its final resting place off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
Once it leaves Philadelphia, the ship will travel to Mobile, Alabama, for preparations before being sunk off Florida’s Panhandle. The journey along the eastern seaboard is expected to take about two weeks.
To track the ship's progress, visit the Destin-Fort Walton Beach website.
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