The luxury liner SS United States completed its journey Monday from South Philadelphia to Alabama, where it will undergo preparations before it is sunk in the waters off Florida's Gulf Coast to become an artificial reef.

Though some were skeptical the vessel could make it through such a journey, it faced 14-foot waves and high winds without much trouble.

The SS United States is towed to Alabama and draws onlookers to the East End of Dauphin Island on Monday, March 3, 2025. The historic ocean-liner is being towed to Mobile where it will be prepared for submersion as the world's largest artificial reef off the Florida Gulf Coast near Destin-Fort Walton. John Sharp

Looking rusty and every bit of 75 years old, the former luxury cruiser limped into the Port of Mobile Monday with the help of a couple of tug boats.

The SS United States completed its long trip from Philadelphia to the Port City on Monday, but in many ways, its journey is just beginning.

Once-fastest transatlantic ship arrives for six-month preparation before final destination as artificial reef in Florida.

After being docked in Philadelphia for nearly three decades, the SS United States -- once the world's fastest ocean liner -- has arrived in Mobile, Al., ahead of schedule to be prepared to be turned into an artificial reef.

The United States was towed to Mobile for preparation work before it will eventually be sunk off Florida to become an artificial reef.

A chilly morning wind greeted the photographers and residents who gathered at the East End to catch a glimpse of history as the SS United States, following its journey from Philadelphia, was towed into Mobile. It is expected to arrive this afternoon to the Modern American Recycling & Repair Services facility at 601 S. Royal St., south of downtown.