A quay (pronounced like “key”) is a sturdy platform built along the edge of a harbor or river where boats and ships can dock to load and unload cargo or passengers. Think of it as a parking space for boats: a solid, permanent structure made of stone, concrete, or heavy timber that runs along the shore.

Quays have been essential to shipping and trade for centuries. In busy ports, you might see dozens of ships tied up along different quays, with cranes lifting containers, workers rolling barrels, or passengers boarding ferries. Historic quays in cities like Boston or London were once crowded with sailing ships carrying goods from around the world.

A quay is similar to a wharf or pier, but typically refers to a structure that runs parallel to the shoreline rather than extending out into the water. Many waterfront streets are named “Quay” in port cities, showing where the old loading docks used to be.