Shore and ship meet at a working edge. A wharf is a structure built along the shore or projecting into the water so that ships can berth alongside to load and unload cargo or passengers.

The term overlaps with quay and pier and usage varies by region. Wharves typically provide a platform for cargo handling, storage, and access. Construction may be of timber, stone, concrete, or steel piles with a deck. Depth alongside and strength of the deck limit the ships and cargoes that can be worked.

Wharf operators manage berthing slots, cargo equipment, and safety. Wear from ships, weather, and heavy loads requires ongoing maintenance. A busy wharf is the visible interface between maritime and land transport.

• Shore-side structure for berthing and cargo work
• Overlaps in meaning with quay and pier
• Provides platform for handling and storage
• Limited by depth and structural strength