In the past, kajjikki were equipped with sails and oars, but today the fishing boats are powered by inboard motors.
The kajjik developed in the 17th century from the caïques which accompanied galleys of the navy of the Order of Saint John.
[2] Another variant was the kajjik tal-gangmu, which had a low bow and a short forestem originally intended for fishing for seashells.
[1] The kajjik bears similarities to the dgħajsa tal-pass, but it is of stronger construction and it has a flat stern.
[1] Variants of the kajjik are commonly used in the rowing regattas held in the Grand Harbour on 31 March and 8 September each year.