The word "quayage" is a term used in the shipping industry to describe the fees charged for the use of a quay or wharf. It is pronounced as /ˈkweɪɪdʒ/, with the first syllable sounding like "kway" and the second syllable sounding like "idge." The double "a" in the middle of the word is pronounced as a separate sound, making it different from the word "quay" which is pronounced as /keɪ/. The spelling of "quayage" reflects its French origins, where it is spelled as "quaiage."
Quayage refers to the charges or fees imposed on a ship for the use of a quay or dock for loading, unloading, or berthing. It is a term commonly used in the maritime industry to indicate the expenses incurred by vessel owners or operators for utilizing the facilities of a quay or dock.
A quay is a structure or platform built along the water's edge to provide a safe area for ships to berth or dock. It typically includes jetties, piers, or wharves that are specially designed to accommodate the mooring of vessels. Quays are essential infrastructures for maritime transportation, as they enable efficient loading and unloading of cargo, embarkation or disembarkation of passengers, and the provision of necessary supplies and services to ships.
Quayage charges are levied by the port authorities or owners of the quays to recover the costs associated with maintaining, operating, and providing services at these facilities. These charges may vary depending on factors such as the size of the ship, duration of stay, type of cargo, and the services required. Quayage fees contribute to the upkeep of the quay infrastructure, including maintenance of berths, dredging, lighting, security, and other essential amenities.
Quayage charges are an important source of revenue for port authorities, helping to support the ongoing development and improvement of port facilities. They play a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability of the maritime transportation industry and facilitating smooth operations for ships calling at a particular port.
Quay-dues; wharfage.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "quayage" originated from the Middle English term "kayage", which was derived from the Old French word "caiage". This Old French term was formed by combining "cay" (meaning "quay" or "dock") with the suffix "-age" (indicating a tax or fee). Ultimately, the Old French word traces back to the Latin word "cāseus" meaning "cheese", which also gave rise to the modern French word for "cheese" ("fromage"). However, the connection between "quayage" and "cheese" is not directly evident. The connection likely arose due to the fact that cheese was transported and tolls were levied on goods at the quayside.