The iconic Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau prepares to embark on a celebratory voyage into its 15th year of radiant relaxation and rejuvenation. What began as a visionary project—a floating haven where serenity coexists with the aquatic beauty of nature—has blossomed into a beloved refuge for both locals and travelers alike.
Bota Bota: a Spa Housed in a Repurposed Ferry
Once a humble ferry, the ship now known as Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau, has transformed into one of Montreal’s most iconic landmarks. Originally constructed in the 1950s, this vessel began its life as the Arthur-Cardin, a ferry transporting cars and passengers between Sorel and St-Ignace-de-Loyola. Built in 1951 by Marine Industries Limited in Sorel, Quebec, the ferry measured 162 feet in length with a beam of 30.58 feet and a draft of 10.16 feet. With a gross tonnage of 466 tons, its robust steel hull made it a durable workhorse for its time. Access for passengers was facilitated by marine gangways, while vehicles relied on mobile ramps for boarding and disembarking.
In 1966, the ferry was decommissioned from transportation service and repurposed as a floating theater, renamed L’Escale. As the world’s first floating arts center, it cruised the St. Lawrence River, hosting plays, exhibitions, and performances. The use of marine gangways remained crucial for facilitating smooth and safe boarding. During its years as a theater, it became a cultural hub for many generations, providing a venue for weddings, graduations, and countless performances. In the 1980s, the ship docked permanently in St-Marc-sur-Richelieu, marking the beginning of its second life.
A Vision for Urban Renewal
By 2008, the ship was in search of a new purpose once again. Entrepreneur Daniel Émond saw potential in the vessel as a unique spa venue. His vision was to create a tranquil oasis in an urban setting, and downtown Montreal was the ideal location. However, finding suitable infrastructure posed a challenge. Inspired by Vancouver’s innovative use of ships for commercial purposes, Émond decided to purchase the vessel and transform it into what is now Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau.
The project involved major renovations and the expertise of Sid Lee, a renowned architecture firm, and Montreal-based MAADI Group, specialists in marine gangway fabrication. MAADI Group’s engineers selected 6061 aluminum alloy for its excellent resistance to atmospheric corrosion and its impressive mechanical strength. The project included designing and installing seven custom aluminum gangways. These MakeABridge® gangways serve as primary and secondary entrances, as well as emergency fire escapes, seamlessly blending practicality with aesthetic appeal.
Excellence in Marine Gangway Fabrication
The marine gangway fabrication process for Bota Bota was critical to the project’s success. Each aluminum gangway was designed to meet rigorous safety standards while maintaining an elegant design befitting the spa’s luxurious ambiance. The gangways ensure smooth access for guests and staff, emphasizing reliability and longevity, particularly in Montreal’s challenging climate. The collaboration between the architecture and engineering teams resulted in gangways that complement the ship’s design while enhancing its functionality.
An Iconic Landmark
Today, Bota Bota is moored in the Alexandra Basin of Montreal’s Old Port, under the shadow of the historic Silo #5 and steps from the entrance to the Lachine Canal. The spa has become a symbol of innovation and sustainable urban development, admired both locally and internationally. Its transformation from ferry to floating theater to spa is a testament to creative reuse and thoughtful engineering.
The incorporation of MakeABridge® marine gangways, alongside state-of-the-art aluminum gangway designs, highlights the ship’s accessibility and modern appeal. Furthermore, the expertise in marine gangway fabrication ensures that the infrastructure is built to last, meeting the demands of heavy daily use while maintaining a sleek and professional appearance.
As it celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2025, Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau stands as a shining example of how industrial ingenuity and architectural vision can breathe new life into a historic vessel, turning it into a beloved urban retreat.
