A boat dock is a structure built along the shoreline of a body of water, designed to provide a safe place for boats to moor or tie up. Docks can be made from various materials, including wood, concrete, or metal, and they often include features like cleats for securing boats and ramps for easy access. Boat docks are commonly found in marinas, lakes, and rivers, serving recreational boaters and commercial vessels alike. They facilitate activities such as loading and unloading passengers and cargo, as well as providing a space for maintenance and storage of boats when not in use.