harbours

Harbour (harbor) is a sheltered body of water where ships can dock, moor, or transfer cargo and passengers. Harbours can be natural—formed by coastlines that shelter vessels—or artificial, created with breakwaters, dredged channels, and rebuilt shorelines. They typically include berths or docks, piers and quays, navigation aids, and land-side facilities such as warehouses, cranes, and terminals. Some harbours also host fishing fleets, ferry terminals, or recreational marinas.

Functions: Harbours provide shelter from wind and waves and serve as hubs in maritime transport. They connect sea routes with road, rail and inland waterways, enabling loading and unloading, refueling, maintenance, and transfer of goods and people.

Types: Cargo ports handle bulk, breakbulk, and container goods; fishing ports serve fishing fleets; passenger ports accommodate ferries and cruise ships; marinas cater to private boats.

Construction and management: Harbours require depth maintenance through dredging, and protection via breakwaters or seawalls. They are usually owned and operated by port authorities or harbour boards, with pilots, tugs, and safety protocols. International travel involves customs and immigration controls.

Economic and environmental aspects: Harbours are economic engines, supporting trade, industry, employment and tourism. Their development can impact coastal ecosystems, requiring planning to mitigate dredging effects, sedimentation, and habitat disruption.

Notable harbours include Singapore, Rotterdam, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Dubai, Sydney, and Busan.