Why does the continental shelf provide for good seaports?

Continental Shelfs are the region of shallow depths which act as the extension of the Shoreline into the ocean to a varying distance of approx 600 feet. Their limited depths and gentle slopes increase the height of the tides. Ships only enter and leave the port on the tide. read more

Ships only enter and leave the port on the tide. So it is the reason why world best ports like Southampton,Hamburg,Hong Kong are located on continental shelves. In some cases the high tides produced in continental shelves also act as hindrance to shipping when the height of the tides is too high. read more