Roadstead

A roadstead or road is a sheltered body of water where ships can lie reasonably safely at anchor without dragging or snatching. Many roadsteads are located near ports, but differ from ports in that they do not provide direct access to shore. Protected from rip currents, spring tides, or ocean swell, a roadstead can be open or natural, usually estuary-based, or may be created artificially. In maritime law, it is described as a convenient or safe place where boats usually anchor.