These barges have either fixed accommodation or are equipped with accommodation modules – typically 2-man, 4-man or 8-man cabins, depending on local regulations – and come in two kinds:

• Alongside accommodation barges can connect to shore-side power, fresh water and sewage.

• Offshore accommodation barges are fully autonomous and used mainly offshore in the oil and gas industries. When such vessels are also equipped with a crane, and can lay pipe offshore, they’re known as ‘lay barges’.