Why are slight coastal indentations useful locations for artificial harbors?

In the field of maritime civil engineering, engineers select locations for artificial harbors by evaluating the existing potential of the coastline. Coastal indentations, even when slight, are favored as sites for these projects because they offer a natural starting point for creating sheltered water areas.1

When constructing an artificial harbor, the primary objective is to provide calm water inshore for the safe transfer of cargo, passengers, or the protection of vessels. While engineers may build complete harbors on relatively unsheltered coastlines by enclosing an area with breakwaters—sometimes referred to as a jetty or mole—utilizing an existing indentation reduces the amount of structural work required to achieve the necessary shelter. By leveraging these natural features, engineers can more efficiently create the protected environments required for port operations.12