I discovered that the feelings of the Maltese people I met regarding the export was mixed.  Most were fascinated to learn that a Luzzu was going to England, but others thought that the boat should not be permitted to leave Malta as she was part of their heritage.
I totally agree with those who believe the Luzzu is part of the Maltese heritage, but as I pointed out some months later, in a local television interview, there is not enough being done by the authorities to protect and preserve the heritage of the islands, including the Luzzus.
I explained that the Luzzu I was to take to England would be carefully preserved as a fine example of the boat building crafts around Malta.

There was a great deal of preparation to be done before the boat could leave Malta.

Our visit to Malta customs proved straight forward as the boat was under 50 years old as stipulated, although we were rather amused at being chased around the customs
offices by an officer who wanted 10c in payment for the official form!

An insurance policy was required to cover the Luzzu during the long journey to
England. This was kindly provided by Elmo Insurance brokers. An export company had to be found, and after several phone calls and visits to several offices, an agreement was reached with Express Trailers Ltd.  It had been a job in itself just finding a company to handle the export, and to deal with all the paperwork involved.

In mid February 2006 the Luzzu said farewell to the sea.  With help from Paul from the "Front Garden" on the Strand Gzira, the boat was carefully eased onto her trailer.

In typical Maltese style Paul just got on with the job, despite having to wade into the sea and get wet.

The boat was left on the quay side
overnight awaiting collection by
Express trailers.