Whitstable is a tidal harbour catering for commercial and fishing vessels. The harbour basin is used by the fishing and shellfish fleet, the 117 year old Thames barge Greta, high speed wind farm maintenance vessels and Brett Aggregates. The harbour provides pilotage and a range of services for berth holders and visiting vessels.

The harbour is managed by a Harbour Board appointed by the Canterbury City Council with the objective of developing the port for the benefit of the community as a profitable mixed use port.