The burning of the luxury liner, the Normandie in 1942. The Normandie was the largest liner in the world. As World War II commenced the liner was taken out of service, and a decision was made to fit her out as a U.S naval auxiliary. As the work began a fire broke out on board, the blaze was fierce, lasting 5 hours. Thousands of tonnes of water were poured into her. The fire was under control, but as tide the came in, the Normandie began to roll over on to her side and the weight of the water pulled her down. Damage to the luxury liner was estimated to be ?1,250,000.