Legal Definitions - wharf

A wharf is a permanent structure built along the shore of a body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean. Its primary purpose is to provide a place where vessels (like boats or ships) can safely dock to load or unload cargo, passengers, or supplies.

• Example 1: At a major international shipping port, massive container ships pull alongside a long concrete wharf where cranes efficiently transfer thousands of cargo containers between the ship and waiting trucks or trains.

  Explanation: This illustrates a wharf as a substantial structure designed for large-scale loading and unloading of goods from vessels.

• Example 2: In a small coastal town, local fishing boats return to a wooden wharf each morning to unload their fresh catch, which is then quickly transported to nearby markets.

  Explanation: Here, the wharf serves as a docking point for smaller vessels to unload their specific cargo (fish) and is a central part of the local economy.

• Example 3: Tourists visiting an island destination disembark from a ferry onto a sturdy stone wharf that connects directly to the island's main promenade.

  Explanation: This example shows a wharf used for the loading and unloading of passengers from a ferry, facilitating travel and access to a location.

A private wharf is a wharf that is owned or leased by an individual, a private company, or a specific organization, and its use is restricted. It is not open for general public access or use.

• Example 1: A large chemical manufacturing plant located on a river has its own dedicated private wharf where barges deliver raw materials directly to the factory and pick up finished products for distribution.

  Explanation: This wharf is private because its use is exclusively controlled by the manufacturing company for its specific business operations, not by the general public.

• Example 2: The owner of a luxurious waterfront estate has a beautifully maintained wooden private wharf extending into the bay, used solely for docking their personal yacht and small recreational boats.

  Explanation: This wharf is private as it belongs to and is used exclusively by the estate owner and their guests, demonstrating restricted personal use.

A public wharf is a wharf that is owned, operated, or designated for use by the general public. These wharves are typically managed by a government entity, municipality, or public authority, and any vessel meeting the operational requirements can usually use them, often for a fee.

• Example 1: The city-owned pier at the downtown waterfront serves as a public wharf where various tour boats, water taxis, and recreational vessels can dock for short periods, allowing passengers to explore the city.

  Explanation: This wharf is public because it is managed by the city and available for use by a wide range of commercial and recreational vessels, serving the general public.

• Example 2: A large municipal port facility includes several public wharves where commercial fishing fleets, cargo barges, and even small passenger ferries can pay a fee to access loading, unloading, and mooring services.

  Explanation: This example highlights a public wharf's availability to diverse commercial users, managed by a public entity to facilitate general maritime commerce and transport.