The Grand Harbour provides the backdrop of a photo from circa 1890, which shows several ‘dgħajjes tal-pass’, roughly translating to ‘water taxi’, waiting to transport people from Valletta to the Cottonera area.  

This type of boat was developed in the 17th century and was used to ferry passengers in the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour between the 18th and 20th centuries. The advent of steam ferries and buses in the 20th century led to a decline in the use of these boats. By the end of the 1900s, the introduction of the more efficient outboard motor meant that oars were rarely used anymore.

In fact, nowadays the use of the traditional Maltese boats is dwindling, and few ‘dgħajjes tal-pass’ remain in operation, most of which ferry tourists around the harbours. This decline is partly due to the fact that the maintenance of such boats requires hard work and a substantial amount of money.

However, they remain beautiful boats to look at, often painted in vibrant colours and sometimes even sporting elaborate floral designs. Such boats can still be enjoyed during the rowing regattas held in the Grand Harbour on the 31st March (Freedom Day) and 8th September (Victory Day) public holidays.

Have you ever been on a ‘dgħajsa tal-pass’?