Koksijde buys last amphibious boat: “Maritime heritage”
Koksijde bought the boat for 45,000 euros. The previous owner was captain Rik Vandewalle who had to stop his trips due to the stricter rules in June 2021.
Amphibious boats were built during World War II to transport soldiers and equipment. After the war years, those vessels were left behind on the beach. Some were used for tourist trips on the coast. In the spring and autumn, many sea classes enjoyed a trip in Koksijde, Sint-Idesbald and De Panne† During the summer they were tourists.
You found the last amphibious boat off the coast in Koksijde. The boat will certainly participate in the Shrimp Parade on June 26, 2022 and will thus be given a third life.
From World War II
Coastal heritage Amphibian boat ‘De Normandie’ has a long history. Originally it was an army vessel that was used in World War II to easily get men and equipment ashore. After the war, the Allies left the ships behind and they were used for fishing, but often also for tourism. The ship always gets a lot of interest, because it can sail as well as drive. The boat has many stories… According to captain Rik’s research, the boat was probably built in 1942.
Safety regulations are getting stricter. But the corona crisis and the sand spraying were also a reason to stop.
“Fantastic years”
Rik took over ‘De Normandie’ ten years ago from Ronny Vanhoutte, who sailed with the amphibious boat for no less than 25 years.
Rik Vandewalle: “In the spring and autumn we mainly did sea classes. During the summer months we went on a tour with the bathers. But we also welcomed Sinterklaas on board, were ready for the annual sea consecration and also scattering of ashes at sea, weddings and even a marriage proposal came up. They were fantastic years.”
third life
Mayor Marc Vanden Bussche: “Koksijde cherishes its heritage! Those amphibious boats are a special piece of tourist history. They sailed here off our coast for seventy years. Twenty years ago there was still one in almost every coastal municipality. Until five years ago there was another amphibious boat in Blankenberge, but those owners have stopped using it. When we heard that Captain Rik Vandewalle would also stop in Koksijde, we were immediately interested in taking over this vessel.
The boat is so inextricably linked to our piece of coast. It is an image that remains burned onto the retina. We thank Rik for taking good care of him, because the vessel is in very good condition despite its age. We look at what is possible. The boat is currently housed in the Oostduinkerke wharf. One thing is certain. The amphibious boat will be a new showpiece in our annual Shrimp Parade. This year on June 26, 2022.”