If you go for a walk anywhere by the Maltese coastline – most especially if you visit the fishermen’s town of Marsaxlokk – you will surely spot one of the country’s iconic symbols and origin of one of our renowned Lottos: the maltese Luzzu!
How can I spot a Luzzu boat if I’ve never seen one before?
You know you’ve spotted one by their colour. The boats are brightly painted in shades of yellow, red, green and blue, and the bow is normally pointed with a pair of eyes. These eyes may be the modern survival of an ancient Phoenician custom; they are referred to as the Eye of Osiris. They are said to protect the fishermen while at sea.
Where did the maltese Luzzu originate from?
The Italian gozzo visited Malta frequently in the 1880s, and the design of the maltese luzzu is believed to have evolved from it in the early 20th century. The boat is also similar to the Maltese ferilla, which is another Maltese dgħajsa, but it has a higher freeboard and a shorter stem and is made of stronger timber.
Early luzzijiet were used as transportation, but after they were motorised they became famous as fishing boats or dgħajjes tas-sajd. Newer versions of the boats have a deck and some also have a cabin for storage purposes! Today, no new luzzijiet are built, but a few hundred boats are still functioning, mainly at Marsaxlokk.
How can I get a Luzzu boat?
These boats are hereditary, often they move from parents and grandparents to grandchildren.
Are the maltese Luzzu available for rides?
If you were thinking of visiting Comino or Malta’s Grand Harbour, why not choose the Luzzu? Short Luzzu harbour cruises are within easy reach so you can appreciate the true magnificence of the three cities, Valletta and Manoel Island with their forts as well as day trips to Blue Lagoon in Comino, where you also go swimming.
A fishing adventure aboard the traditional fishing boat? A lunchtime break with the one-and-only ħobża biż-żejt the Maltija way? Or a vessel by which to do your sightseeing? The Luzzu will surely provide an unforgettable experience! Its slow-paced ways make time stand still, especially on a summer afternoon.
Does it get any better than this? U mela!
All of this combined makes the Maltese-inspired Luzzu Lotto possible! Check out Jackpot.com to participate in some of the most exciting lotteries around the world. Pick your lucky numbers today to get in the chance to reel in a big jackpot with Luzzu Lotto.
Keep your eyes peeled for exciting news and updates by following our social media platforms via Facebook and Instagram. Watch as we recreated a dear customer’s old Luzzu days on a recent fishing trip along with the Jackpot.com team.