What characteristic typically distinguishes a yacht from a barge?

The defining characteristic that distinguishes a yacht from a barge relates to their design intent and functionality. Yachts are typically built for recreational purposes, emphasizing maneuverability and performance on the water. This design focus allows yachts to navigate more easily, change direction quickly, and perform at higher speeds, catering to the needs and desires of sailors and passengers seeking enjoyment.

In contrast, a barge is primarily designed for stability and is utilized for carrying cargo or freight. Barges usually operate with a lower center of gravity and a wider beam to enhance stability in various loading conditions and to minimize the risk of capsizing. The cargo-carrying nature of barges and their broader focus on stability as opposed to maneuverability reflects their functional design, which is quite different from the agile and performance-oriented design of yachts. This distinction highlights the primary design intent behind each vessel type: yachts for performance and enjoyment, and barges for stability and cargo transportation.