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

Okaloosa County commissioners voted in October to buy the SS United States for $10 million and use it as an artificial reef. It’s estimated that the economic benefit will be $3 million a

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.

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.

The SS United States is marking the end of the first leg of its journey to becoming the world's largest artificial reef.

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