wharves

Use, in post-Second World War contexts, for structures built generally parallel to the shoreline so that vessels may moor alongside to receive or discharge cargo or passengers; prior to the mid-20th century, may refer broadly to any such landing places. For similar loading and unloading places built to extend from the shoreline out over water, use "piers (marine landings)"; if such places are artificial solid banks or shoreline extensions built parallel to the shoreline, use "quays."