The MV Matthew has been immortalised.

Eagle-eyed strollers on the Passage West Greenway might notice a new addition to the town’s welcoming mural.

The notorious ship at the centre of Ireland’s largest cocaine bust has brazenly sailed right into the heart of the harbour town’s artwork.

The colossal bulk carrier, the MV Matthew, is currently chilling at Marino Point in Cobh, just a stone’s throw across the water from its painted doppelgänger. The vessel has become a bit of a celebrity locally, pulling in crowds of curious onlookers to the otherwise quiet town of Passage in recent weeks.

Now, MV Matthew has taken up permanent residence in art form, thanks to Rochestown’s artistic dynamo, Jill Cotter of Corkidoodledo.

Known for her architectural drawings of Cork, Jill wears even more hats as she is an avid rower and a member of the Passage West Rowing Club.

Photo credit: Jill Cotter

Photo credit: Jill Cotter

Jill made the playful nod to Irish maritime history in recent days and told Yay Cork that the overall mural is still a work in progress, largely because Mother Nature hasn’t always been on her side.

The project is part of Passage West Rowing Club’s renovation project, with fundraising currently underway for a new clubhouse on the site.

Following the club’s spring clean in March, which included a fresh lick of paint and the addition of the club’s logo to the entrance door, Jill’s vision was to revitalise the fading wall beside the clubhouse.

With the assistance of other members — one lending their plastering skills and another crafting a cute bench — she has embarked on the monumental task of painting a mural.

“The club in Passage has been here for over 50 years,  carrying on a decades-long tradition of coastal rowing in the harbour. I wanted to acknowledge this sport and its place in the hearts of people in the town,” she said.

Jill’s artwork can be viewed by those cruising on the water, strolling on foot, or pedalling on wheels.

It doesn’t just mirror the scene outside the clubhouse but also showcases the five coastal rowing clubs tucked away in the scenic beauty of Cork Harbour. Each boat flaunts its own unique club colours. Passage West is closest (obvs), followed by Rushbrook, Blackrock, East Ferry, and Whitegate.

“One thing I really would like is that boats and ships coming into the Port of Cork might be able to see the ‘Welcome to Passage West’ sign and know where they are in our harbour. It fills me with joy to think of that,” added Jill.

So, whether you’re a cycling enthusiast, a running devotee, or simply in search of a reason to hop aboard the fun Harbour Cruise, explore the extraordinary mural up close, and its latest illustrious addition.