What is a Wharfholder?

A wharfholder is a person or entity that holds the right to use a wharf, which is a structure built along a shore or riverbank to facilitate the loading and unloading of ships and other vessels. The term "wharfholder" is used in the context of maritime law and commerce to refer to the party that has the legal right to use the wharf and its facilities.

Wharfholders are typically responsible for maintaining the wharf and its equipment, as well as ensuring that it is safe and secure for use by ships and other vessels. They may also be responsible for collecting fees from users of the wharf, such as shipping companies or cargo owners.

In some cases, wharfholders may also be involved in the transportation of goods and cargo, either by owning their own ships or by contracting with third-party carriers to provide transportation services. In these situations, the wharfholder may play a key role in coordinating the movement of goods from the wharf to their final destination.