Seabee

Summary of Seabee

A marine cargo system that employs a barge loaded aboard a specially designed vessel. The barge, which is substantially larger than those employed in LASH-type systems, measures more than 97 feet in overall length, features double-hull construction, and accommodates a bale capacity of 39,140 cubic feet. The barges are hoisted aboard the vessel by means of winches. Each barge has hatch openings measuring 30 feet by 84 feet for ease of loading. In addition, flat deck barges are used to handle oversized machinery and similarly awkward cargoes. Seabee barges are the same width and half the length as the “jumbo”barges used on U.S. inland waterways. The Seabee system was introduced in 1972 by Lykes Brothers Steamship Line.

(Main Author: William J. Miller)