Description
The Xprunara originated in Malta and volved 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 and its construction technology is reflected in the present day tal-latini, luzzu, kajjikk, ferilla, and dghajsa tal-pass. The limited hold space of a xprunara was from Maltese waters by the first decade of the twentieth century.
Joseph Muscat is a maritime historian who has specialized in the naval activities of the Order of St John. His writings have appeared in numerous local and foreign publications.