scow

A scow is a type of flat-bottomed boat, particularly common in shallow waters and estuaries. Scows are characterized by their wide, flat decks and their hull shape, which provides stability and allows them to carry heavy loads. The flat bottom makes them ideal for navigating areas with limited water depth, such as bays, rivers, and canals, and enables them to be beached easily.

Historically, scows were widely used for commercial purposes, including transporting goods like coal, sand, gravel, and agricultural products. Their design allowed for efficient loading and unloading, and their shallow draft meant they could access ports and inland waterways inaccessible to deeper-hulled vessels. Many scows were also used as barges, towed by tugboats.

Modern scows, while less common than in the past, are still in use, particularly in certain regions for specialized tasks. Some may be adapted for recreational purposes or used in construction and maintenance projects. The term "scow" can sometimes be used more broadly to refer to any broad, flat-bottomed vessel, though the traditional definition refers to a specific type of workboat.