How many harbors are there in the world?

Estimating the exact number of harbors in the world is challenging due to the varying definitions of what constitutes a harbor and the continuous development and changes in coastal infrastructure. However, there are thousands of harbors globally, ranging from large commercial ports to small fishing harbors, with estimates often suggesting numbers in the range of 10,000 to over 20,000. Each country has its own network of ports and harbors, influenced by geography, trade needs, and maritime activities.