A harbor is a sheltered body of water near the coast where ships, boats, and barges can be safely moored or anchored. It provides protection from high waves and strong currents, making it a safe place for vessels to stay
. Harbors can be natural, formed by land surrounding the water to create calm conditions, or artificial, created by human-made structures such as breakwaters, sea walls, or dredging to deepen the area
. Harbors often include ports, which are facilities specifically designed for loading and unloading cargo and passengers. While the terms "harbor" and "port" are sometimes used interchangeably, a port is more focused on commercial activities and infrastructure, whereas a harbor refers broadly to the sheltered water area itself
. Harbors serve many purposes beyond commercial shipping, including providing safe anchorage for small boats, ferry terminals, and recreational vessels. They also support local economies and have strategic naval importance
. In summary, a harbor is a protected water area by the coast that offers safety and shelter for vessels, either naturally or artificially created, often incorporating port facilities for maritime commerce
