Spud Barge is a specialized marine work platform that maintains its position using vertical steel piles, known as spuds, which are lowered to the seabed to anchor the barge in place.
A spud barge is designed to provide temporary station-keeping during marine and near-shore operations. Unlike jack-up barges, the hull of a spud barge remains afloat, while the spuds prevent horizontal movement caused by waves, currents, and wind.
The spuds are deployed through guides in the hull and driven or pressed into the seabed using hydraulic or mechanical systems. For relocation, the spuds are lifted, allowing the barge to move. In some applications, the barge can advance step by step using a method known as spud walking.
