A barge is a large, flat-bottomed boat used for transporting goods or people on rivers, canals, or other inland waterways. Unlike traditional boats, barges do not have a motor and are typically towed by a tugboat. They are commonly used for carrying heavy or bulky cargo, such as construction materials, coal, or grain. Barges can vary in size and design, but they are typically rectangular in shape with a flat deck and low sides. They have been an important mode of transportation for centuries, playing a crucial role in the development of trade and commerce. Today, barges are still widely used for commercial purposes, but they have also become popular for recreational activities such as sightseeing and river cruises.