Duwbakken

Duwbakken are a class of inland waterway vessels designed to push barges along rivers and canals. They form the pushing element of the Dutch and Belgian inland shipping system known as duwvaart, where a duwbak pushes one or more barges to move cargo efficiently over short and long distances. They are commonly used to move bulk goods such as coal, sand, gravel, and containers on busy trunk routes.

Design and construction of a duwbak concentrates on a sturdy, reinforced bow and a seaworthy, maneuverable hull. The vessels are typically steel-hulled and built to withstand occasional contact with barges during tight maneuvers in locks and bends. Propulsion is usually provided by a diesel engine driving a stern-mounted propeller, with some models featuring additional thrusters or hydraulic systems to aid maneuverability. The wheelhouse is positioned to give the crew a clear view of the barges being pushed, and the deck is arranged to handle lines and equipment needed for coupling with barges.

Operation and usage: A duwbak pushes one or more barges, forming a convoy that can be steered from the pushing vessel. This arrangement is common on national and international inland waterways, including major Dutch and Belgian networks, where pushers move bulk cargo with a manpower–engine combination suited to confined waterways, locks, and shallow draughts. Crews typically include a captain, a mate, and engine personnel, with additional hands as needed for long passages or complex towages.

History and status: Duwbakken have been a fundamental part of inland shipping for decades, providing an efficient method to move large volumes of cargo without maintaining separate towing links for every barge. While modern propulsion and navigation systems have evolved, many accustomed pushers remain in service or are preserved for historical and educational purposes, reflecting the enduring role of the duwvaart in European inland waterways.