The xprunara

Abstract

The xprunara originated in Malta and evolved over a period of almost four centuries. It got its name from the spur or beak which it carried on the bows. It was built in great numbers and was operated by a private padrone who, together with six rowers, sailed to all parts of the Mediterranean. The xprunara was swift and was quite often utilized as a passenger boat, especially after 1700. One may safely say that the xprunara was the prototype of any other Maltese traditional boat and its construction technology is reflected in the present day tal-latini, luzzu, kajjikk, ferilla, and dgħajsa tal-pass. The limited hold space of a xprunara was not able to compete with the great steamers. It disappeared from Maltese waters by the first decade of the twentieth century.