dock

A dock is a specialized harbor facility designed for mooring ships and boats, enabling loading and unloading of passengers and cargo, as well as ship maintenance and repair. Docks are typically part of a port complex and may include basins, locks or gates, cranes, warehouses, and access channels. The term is sometimes used to describe the entire facility or, more specifically, a particular basin within a port.

Types and arrangements vary. A wet dock is an enclosed basin connected to the sea with a controlled water level, so vessels remain afloat. A dry dock is a structure that can be flooded or drained, allowing a hull to be exposed for cleaning, painting, or repair. Floating docks are self-contained structures that can be submerged to receive a vessel and then pumped dry to lift it.

Operations and functions. Docks provide berthing space, facilitate cargo handling, and support ship repair, refitting, and construction. They may also include specialized facilities for passenger terminals, ro-ro operations, and ballast management. Access channels and dredging are commonly maintained to ensure safe navigation and operability.

Related structures. Quays, wharves, and piers are shoreline structures that give direct access to ships, while docks refer to the water-filled basins or the integrated facilities where docking operations occur. Transmission of power, water, and data may be supported at the dock area.

Other uses. The word dock also functions as a verb meaning to cut off part of something, such as an animal’s tail, or to withhold wages. In computing, a docking station provides power and data connections for portable devices.