Harbour

Harbour is a term used to describe a sheltered body of water where ships, boats, and barges can be docked. The term harbour is often used interchangeably with port, which is a man-made facility built for loading and unloading vessels and dropping off and picking up passengers.

Definition

A harbour is defined as a body of water of sufficient depth and protection from wind, waves, and currents, where vessels can be moored. This can be naturally occurring or artificially created. Harbours can be found along coastlines, estuaries, rivers, and lakes.

Types of Harbours

There are several types of harbours, including:

• Natural Harbours: These are naturally occurring harbours, often located along coastlines, estuaries, and rivers. They are formed by geological processes and provide natural protection from the elements.

• Artificial Harbours: These are man-made harbours, created through the construction of breakwaters, jetties, and piers. They are often built to accommodate larger vessels or to provide additional docking space.

• Fishing Harbours: These are harbours that are primarily used for the docking and unloading of fishing vessels. They often include facilities for processing and storing fish.

• Commercial Harbours: These are harbours that are used for the loading and unloading of commercial goods. They often include facilities for storing and transporting goods.

Importance of Harbours

Harbours play a crucial role in the global economy, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the world. They provide a safe and secure location for vessels to dock, load and unload goods, and pick up and drop off passengers. Harbours also play a significant role in the fishing industry, providing a location for fishing vessels to dock and unload their catch.

See Also

• Port
• Marina
• Dock (maritime)
• Pier
• Breakwater (structure)

References

Harbour Resources
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