There is no denying that we have a traffic problem in Malta. What’s more, it is most dire in the heated months of summer. Though it is not applicable everywhere, there is a more fun, quicker and interesting solution. The ferries, and the ‘water-taxis’ (dgħajjes), are more scenic, sometimes cheaper, and stylish.
These services are typically available from the following areas:
- Malta (Cirkewwa Port) to Gozo (Mgarr Port)
- Malta/Gozo to Comino
- Valletta and the Three Cities
- Sliema and Valletta
It is also worth noting that there is a rich selection and history of Maltese boats. Since a variety exists, you can make your pick when travelling with them, starting with the most traditional.
The Water Taxis or Id-Dgħajsa tal-Pass, The Maltese Harbour Boat
History and Design of the Water Taxis
In a traveler’s guide book to the islands from 1967, the term ‘water-taxi’ already existed in reference to these boats. However, it mainly referred to the traditional Phoenician prowed boat. Thought to have originated from Venetians residing in Malta in the 16th century, the dgħajsa is in fact frequently compared to the iconic gondola. In fact, one can truly see the similarity in shape, size and design.
The boat is slim and very shallow-draught with high blade-like sterns. It is rowed forward from a typically standing oarsman. A second oarsman rows from a seat in the bows (the front bit). Unlike the gondola, the dgħajsa is typically painted with bright primary colors. These colors have become synonymous with the palette of the islands.
The eye of Osiris, God of the Underworld is usually painted on the front bows. Locals believe it wards off the ‘evil eye’. This symbolism is precisely why it is connected to Phoenician times. It was a culture that was under Egyptian rule for a long time. And in fact, it bears many symbolic and cultural resemblances to Egypt.
Traditional Use and Today
This iconic boat was more prominent in the culture a few decades ago, when there was a bigger link between life on sea and on land. Sailors used to cross from one city to the other, either from the capital or from the three cities.
Apart from this, on Ascension Thursday (Lapsi) it was common to book the boat for a picnic on sea. Lapsi is traditionally the unofficial inauguration for the swimming season. So the boat ride was also a perfect substitute for those who for whatever reason could not swim.
Nowadays you can catch one of these boats from the Birgu Water Taxi station, or the Lascaris Water Taxi station in Valletta. You can rest assured that you won’t wait for long as these boats are normally on a constant rotation.
The Ferries
Although a later addition to the sea-transport of the islands, and perhaps not as beautifully quaint and decorated, the ferries are a hugely popular means of traveling. They are used especially from the big sister to the smaller sister island. Besides that, there is something truly magical in using the smaller ferries between Valletta and Sliema or the Three Cities.
Not only are you floating in between one of the most beautiful port areas in the Mediterranean, but you get such a different view of the islands that you simply can’t miss it. This is true whether you’re a local or a tourist. It’s the same feeling you’d experience in the difference between being in a car in a city street and walking the city street. They are two completely different perceptions! On top of all of this, it is such a short-cut and a time-saver that you really have nothing to lose.
The same ride at night, is then, simply on another level. If you would like to check this out, take a drink and a few snacks to make a little trip out of it. It’s a perfect activity for a date or a night out with friends or family.
