Thursday, August 24, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Notorious Docks At Bowen Harbour

The southern hemisphere’s only historic recreation of a 15th century explorative vessel -which would have been used by the likes of Christopher Columbus - is now docked at Bowen Harbour and open to the public all weekend.

Notorious is a hand-crafted vessel that was researched, designed, and built by Graeme Wylie over a period of eight and half.

The full-time labour of love was completed in 2011 and has been sailing around Australia since 2012.

Graeme and his wife, Felicite, live aboard the vessel and spend their days sailing along the coastline, calling into ports and opening the beautifully crafted timber boat up for viewing whenever they can.

They have previously travelled between Tasmania and Port Douglas, but have spent the last few years in Queensland.

The 15th century Portuguese caravel is made with 300 tonnes of reclaimed timber and has been constructed to look exactly like its predecessors, none of which exist today.

“Children see a pirate ship and can’t wait to get onboard,” said Felicite.

“And Shipwrights see an amazing wooden vessel.

“Everyone loves it, especially families!”

Notorious will be docked outside Birds Fish Bar and Manager Chloe Bauer said she is glad to welcome the ship back after five years.

“The last time they came here was in 2017 and it is great to see them again!” she said.

Visitors can climb the gangway and explore onboard and below deck, kids can pretend to be pirates and take a few photos as keepsakes of a memorable day.

Notorious will be in Bowen Saturday and Sunday this week and it will be open to the public from 10am until 4pm.

Adult admission is $6 (over 15) and children (2-14 years) are $3.

Graeme and Felicite Wylie welcome guests to explore their Portuguese caravel

The recreation of the 15 Century caravel is the only one of its type in the southern hemisphere

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