Barge is a sturdy, flat-bottomed boat used to carry bulk cargo, such as cement, coal, logs, oil, sand, and sugar. Some barges are pushed or pulled by tugboats. Others are powered by their own engines. Some are made from the hulls of sailing ships or steamships. Scows and lighters are types of barges used chiefly in sheltered waters, such as harbors. A navy barge is a fancy motorboat used by high-ranking officers.
