Abstract: The invention relates to an offshore platform operable for use in Arctic locations where prolonged ice conditions may be encountered. The platform includes a lower barge hull having an exterior configuration in the general shape of a rectangular frustum and being operable to be fixed relative to a desired seabed site. The lateral side walls of the barge hull are heated for facilitating movement of contiguous sea ice upwardly relative to the barge side walls to fail the ice in bending as it advances toward the barge hull. A deck is positioned above the lower barge hull and is supported by a first and second column at an elevation whereby the lower surface of the deck will be above and out of contact with sea ice passing over the hull. The deck is positioned relative to the barge hull in a posture such that at least a portion of the deck extends beyond an imaginary vertical plane projecting upwardly from at least one longitudinal edge of the upper surface of the barge hull.