Ocean Liner, Once World's Fastest, Sinks After 70 Years. Here's Why

The S.S. United States, which was once the fastest ocean liner in the world, was sunk off the coast of Destin, Florida, on Wednesday, November 11. The ship was taken around 180 feet below the sea.

It will now become an artificial reef, which is expected to be the world's largest.The S.S. United States was once known for its speed, luxury and strength. Designer William Francis Gibbs was so confident about the ship that he often said, "You can't set her on fire, you can't sink her, and you can't catch her," according to the NY Times.

But now after 70 years, the ship has finally reached the bottom of the ocean.The ship made history in July 1952 when it set a record during its first round trip across the Atlantic Ocean. It became the fastest ship to cross the Atlantic, and the record still stands today. Its top speed was kept a secret during the Cold War.During the 1950s and 1960s, the ship carried passengers between New York and Europe.