The luzzu is the traditional fishing vessel used in Malta. It is pointed at both ends and is painted in characteristic bright colours. Before the introduction of modern registration the colour of the prow used to indicate the homeport of each particular boat. The average overall length is 6.7 meters and the hull material is wood. These vessels have been the mainstay of the fleet in times gone by and their average age is 37 years old. The luzzu are very colourful and painted on each side of the boat is the image of the Osiris eye,surviving from old Phoenicians traditions. Legend says that it protects the boat and the fishermen.