A WHARF (5 letters) and a PIER (4 letters) are both places to tie up a boat. A WHARF is a structure built along the shore of a body of water, typically made of wood or concrete, and used for docking boats and loading and unloading cargo. A PIER is a raised platform built from the shore out over the water, usually supported by piles or pillars, and used for recreational activities such as fishing or sightseeing.