SS United States
Photo credit - Okaloosa County
Tech diving the beginning of history.
Imagine descending into crystal-clear Gulf waters and coming face-to-face with a legend. Soon, the SS United States, America’s most iconic ocean liner, will find a new home beneath the waves in the Gulf of America—becoming the largest manmade artificial reef and shipwreck in the world.
At 990 feet long—longer than the RMS Titanic—the vessel will establish a premier, world-class wreck diving destination while creating a significant new marine habitat in the Gulf.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends history, adventure, and marine conservation. The intended sinking site will be 22 miles southwest of Destin-Fort Walton Beach - currently supporting a diverse range of Gulf of Mexico marine life. Because this area lacks natural coral reefs, existing artificial structures nearby are already thriving with several species.
Why This Dive Will Be Unforgettable
Historic Scale: The scale and technical appeal, alone will allow the SS United States to dwarf every other artificial reef on the planet.
Marine Paradise: Designed to foster biodiversity, this reef will attract vibrant corals, schools of tropical fish, and pelagic giants.
Bucket-List Status: The SS United States isn’t just a ship—it’s a piece of American history, reborn as an underwater sanctuary.
Why It Matters
This project isn’t just about diving—it’s about preserving history and creating life. By transforming the SS United States into a thriving reef, we’re giving back to the ocean while offering divers the ultimate playground. This, and history, are the crossroads of Valkyrie Dive Adventures. We believe in the merging of helping divers find their blue in the tranquillity of diving and making a positive impact in our oceans.
For Divers, By Divers
Whether you’re a seasoned wreck diver or an eco-conscious adventurer, this site offers:
Multi-level penetration routes for advanced divers.
Photographer’s dream vistas with towering superstructures and marine life.
Conservation impact: Every dive supports reef restoration and ocean health.
Dive inclusions
- Rental gear (if gear rental is stated in your package)
- Entrance fees + site access charges
- Emergency oxygen kit, first aid, and safety support
- Post-dive snacks
travel inclusions
- Round-trip transportation between hotel and dive sites
- Airport transfers (depending on package)
- Lodging (boutique, eco-lodge, or hotel depending on package)
- Gear setup, rinsing, drying, and daily storage handled by the staff
- Concierge trip support (reservations, activity suggestions, logistics help)
not included / personal
- Personal Essentials
- Passport, visas, required dive certifications
- DAN dive insurance (required)
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation/interruption
- Cash for tips, souvenirs, alcohol
- Medications, motion-sickness remedies, personal toiletries
- Personal Dive Gear (if not renting)
- Prescription dive mask (if needed)
- Personal camera gear (GoPro, housing, lights, chargers)
- Swimwear
- Warm layers for between dives
- Drybag for personal items
Plan your Dive
Location: Gulf of America, accessible from Pensacola, Destin, and Gulf Shores.
Best Season: Year-round diving with peak visibility in spring and fall.
Packages: Guided wreck tours, eco-lodge stays, and luxury liveaboards available soon.
reserve your spot.
Ready to dive in? Valkyrie Dive Adventures offers curated dive trips that allow you to explore some of the most unique and breathtaking dive sites. Whether you're discovering shipwrecks, vibrant reefs, or remote locations, our trips are designed for divers who appreciate the beauty and depth of the underwater world.