Coast Guard sets moving safety zone around SS United States

The ship is expected to be towed from Mobile on Monday, Nov. 9, weather permitting, according to the Coast Guard.
Published: Nov. 5, 2026 at 7:28 PM CST|Updated: 18 hours ago

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - The U.S. Coast Guard Sector Mobile is setting up a moving safety zone around the SS United States as the ship prepares to leave Mobile and head into the Gulf.

The ship is expected to be towed from Mobile on Monday, Nov. 9, weather permitting, according to the Coast Guard.

Events honoring the historic ocean liner, begin Wednesday, Nov. 11, with a public sendoff...
Events honoring the historic ocean liner, begin Wednesday, Nov. 11, with a public sendoff ceremony ahead of the scheduled Nov. 12 deployment, weather permitting.(Okaloosa County)

Safety zone details

The zone is a 100-yard buffer around the ship and its towing vessels. It goes into effect Monday morning.

Officials said the zone is designed to protect mariners and keep local boat traffic at a safe distance while the liner moves through the bay and out to sea.

Schedule

The ship is expected to reach an offshore site on Nov. 10. Sinking operations are scheduled to start Nov. 12 at 10 a.m.

Guidance for boaters

Boaters are urged to stay clear, follow Coast Guard instructions and monitor VHF Channel 16 for updates.