Transport, Published 12 July 2026

Ever spotted a 15th-century Portuguese caravel sailing around Australia's coast?

If you have, you've probably seen Notorious - one of the most remarkable wooden ships ever built in Australia.

Despite its fearsome appearance, Notorious isn't actually a pirate ship. It's a full-size, working recreation of a 15th-century Portuguese caravel - the type of vessel that helped explore the world's oceans during the Age of Discovery more than 500 years ago.

Even more impressive, the ship was researched, designed and built largely single-handedly by Victorian furniture maker Graeme Wylie over a period of about ten years using reclaimed timber.

The project was inspired by the enduring mystery of Victoria's "Mahogany Ship" - an alleged historic shipwreck reported along the state's south-west coast. Some researchers have speculated it may have been a Portuguese caravel from the Age of Discovery, although no confirmed evidence of the wreck has ever been found, and its true identity remains one of Australia's greatest maritime mysteries.

Launched in 2011, Notorious has since sailed more than 20,000 nautical miles around Australia's coastline, regularly visiting ports in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. Wherever she arrives, crowds gather to admire her towering masts, beautifully crafted timber hull and traditional wooden fittings.

If you've ever had the chance to step aboard, you'll know it's like travelling back in time!

A very special thank you to Graeme and Felicite for taking the time to chat with us and share the incredible story behind Notorious. It was an absolute pleasure to meet you both, and we sincerely appreciate your generosity and hospitality.

The ship is waiting for your visit!

Sunday, 12 July 9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Scarborough Boat Harbour – Public Wharf Bird O'Passage Parade, Scarborough, QLD

Admission: Adults: $8 Children: $5

Step aboard and experience a remarkable piece of maritime history!

Find them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NotoriousShip Notorious Ship

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