In its time, the Normandie, a ship let into the water in 1932, was one of the most luxurious packet boats with wealthy interiors in art-deco style.

This boat-hotel, a sobre imitation of the ship, was built in 1936 with architect L. Bruggeman.

Like for the real ship, that burnt in 1942 in the New York harbour and sunk, it's time of glory seemed passed away.

Medio June 2003, we find the hotel sadly empty en ruined, governed by nature and vandalism.

In the meantime, (January 2004) we got the message from Danie Debeerst that the building is being renovated and yet looks better at the outside ( with our thanks for the information).

Anno 2006: Wim Van Caeneghem: 'In the meantime, the restauration was finished, and the boat is open as restaurant / party room. '