Hamn

Hamn is the Swedish term for a harbor or port, a sheltered coastal or riverine area where ships can dock, load and unload cargo, and take on passengers. Harbors provide protection from waves, access to adequate water depth, and infrastructure such as quays, piers, breakwaters, and navigational aids.

The word derives from Old Norse hamn and is cognate with the Danish havn and Norwegian havn; in English related terms include haven and harbor. The concept covers both natural harbors and man-made facilities that enable maritime activity.

Harbors include a range of functions and facilities. They support docking and mooring, cargo handling and storage, container terminals, passenger terminals, bunkering and provisioning, and operational services such as pilots, tugs, and cranes. They also house auxiliary infrastructure like lighthouses, breakwaters, warehouses, and customs offices. Harbors are typically operated by port authorities or private operators under national regulation.

Types of harbors vary by purpose. Commercial ports handle general cargo, bulk goods, and containers; fishing harbors accommodate fishing vessels and related activities; marinas serve recreational boats; passenger terminals facilitate liner services and ferries; naval harbors support military fleets. Many coastal cities maintain one or more of these facilities, ranging from large international hubs to small local ports.

Regulation and safety are central to harbor operations. Harbors fall under national maritime authorities and adhere to international conventions on safety, environmental protection, and navigation. Environmental considerations include waste management, ballast water treatment, dredging practices, and measures to prevent water pollution and protect marine ecosystems. Effective traffic management and emergency response capacity are also essential components of harbor governance.