Special Route for an Oversized Barge on the Rhône–Sète Canal
Special Route for an Oversized Barge on the Rhône–Sète Canal
March 27th, 2025
The Rhône to Sète canal witnessed the passage of an out-of-gauge barge as part of a barge transfer between the Rhône and Sète
Preparations and preliminary studies
Before undertaking this crossing, several key actions were carried out by the team to prepare a circulation request file:
Precise measurements taken on the canal;
Collection of information from navigators;
Analysis of canal water level response based on varying conditions;
The circulation request file was submitted, with support from VNF (Voies Navigables de France), to the relevant authorities (prefectures of Gard and Hérault).
Technical conditions
For its navigation, the pusher/barge convoy used historical infrastructure dating back to the 18th century, with very narrow maneuvering margins:
Guaranteed water depth (2.50 meters) – Our convoy had a draft of 1.8 meters when empty
Clearance under bridges (5.20 meters) – Our convoy had an air draft of 5.15 meters.
The entire operation required the intervention of the "Triomphant" pusher, along with 1,000 tons of ballast to stabilize the crossing. The convoy measured 105.5 meters in length and 11.40 meters in width.
Experts at the helm
Weather conditions were complex to manage and required the full expertise of our navigators: wind and crosscurrents (particularly at the Vidourle gates), and varying canal water levels.
A successful operational achievement by our teams in coordination with our partners
This operation highlights the flexibility and adaptability of river transport: thanks to the professionalism of our teams and partners, we were able to carry out the barge transfer to optimize operations for our client.
Acknowledgements
Many thanks to everyone involved in this project: Serge, Jérôme, Pascal, Cédric, Thomas, Jonathan, and Rudy — and let’s not forget our pilot Arnaud.
Photos : Denis Volle - Sogestran
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