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What is a barge?
Main features of a barge
A barge is a type of flat-bottomed, non-motorised commercial boat. Barges are generally seen along wide-gauge rivers and canals in pushed convoys. 'Pushing' is a specific mode of river transport that consists of moving barges via a specialised vessel, known as a pusher. Pushers are used to propel floating units thanks to their engine power and complex stowage composed of steel slings. These wide loads can reach almost 180 metres in length: the maximum size of European locks. The pusher's cockpit is mounted on hydraulic cylinders to ensure good visibility for the captain both when navigating and passing through locks.
A barge is a utility craft and, strictly speaking, is not classed as a boat. Its size varies according to the convoy, and its load capacity is impressive: it can reach 50,000 tons. It is quite common to convert an old self-propelled canal boat into a barge. To do this, you simply need to remove the engine and housing so that you are left with a long floating metal box. For information, the Freycinet self-propelled canal boat is the latest evolution of the Flemish barge, with steel construction and an adapted engine.
Uses of a barge
At present, large barges standardised for river convoys are predominantly produced. Different types of convoys exist depending on the cargo. Cargo can be made up of hydrocarbon or large quantities of new cars. It should be noted that barges using canals and rivers are capable of transporting goods equalling 200 lorries in one go: an impressive feat.
There are uncommon configurations of engine-powered barges, such as:
- The split barge, which literally opens in half to unload everything in its central tank. This feature requires complex wiring both in terms of distribution and safety. This process is amazing to witness in real time as it is so unique!
- The mussel barge can sail in very shallow water, which offers easy access to oyster and mussel beds. It has plenty of storage capacity thanks to its wide deck.
Barges are made to measure according to their intended uses. Discover our barges listed for sale and admire the unique characteristics of these commercial boats.