What is the Difference Between Wharf and Jetty?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between a wharf and a jetty lies in their structure, location, and purpose. Here are the key differences:
- Wharf: A wharf is a man-made landing place for ships on a shore or riverbank, typically parallel to the coast. It is built to handle the loading and unloading of large vessels and can have storage areas for cargo. Wharves are often used for commercial purposes and are more substantial structures compared to jetties.
- Jetty: A jetty is a structure, usually built perpendicular to the shore, extending out into the water to influence the current or tide, or to protect a harbor or beach. It is a smaller, raised wooden platform, more suitable for small boats to dock and unload. Jetties are often used for recreational purposes and are less substantial structures compared to wharves.
In summary, a wharf is a more substantial, parallel structure designed for loading and unloading large vessels, while a jetty is a smaller, perpendicular structure intended for protecting a harbor or beach and accommodating smaller boats.
Comparative Table: Wharf vs Jetty
Here is a table summarizing the differences between a wharf and a jetty:
| Feature | Wharf | Jetty |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Loading and unloading ships, facilitating movement of goods and people | Protecting shoreline from erosion, influencing current or tide |
| Location | Parallel to the coast, along the shore | Perpendicular to the coast, extending into the water |
| Materials | Stone, concrete, wood, or a combination of these | Wood, concrete, or stone |
| Structure Type | Fixed platform built upon pilings or a large structure with multiple berths | Long, narrow structure that may be built upon wooden logs or made of rubble and concrete |
| Activities | Commercial, cargo loading/unloading, passenger transportation | Recreational, fishing, walking, leisure activities (in addition to protective function) |
A wharf is a structure parallel to the coast, designed for loading and unloading ships and facilitating the movement of goods and people. It is typically made of stone, concrete, wood, or a combination of these materials. On the other hand, a jetty is a long, narrow structure that extends from the shore into the water, perpendicular to the coast. It is made of wood, concrete, or stone and serves to protect the shoreline from erosion caused by waves and currents. Jetties can also be used for recreational activities like fishing, walking, and leisure activities, in addition to their protective function.