Floating Architecture  as a possible solution*

*see "Transportation" page

Dock Terminology

Dock - floating platform
Pier - a platform suspended on pilings or concrete legs

Sona column - a concrete column that is used to support walkways and/or piers
Pilings - steel pipe or wooden logs driven into the bottom of a leg of ocean that is used to suspend decks, house for secure dock in the place

Mooring - to secure in a particular place, as by cables and anchors or by lines

Anatomy of a dock

Cleat - a steel mooring fastener.
Decking
        Radius edge pressure treated
        2x6 pressure treated
        Concrete panel
        Non slip aluminum
        Plywood
Skirt board - a 2x12 skirting around the dock
Sub frame - 6x6 / 4x6 / 6x8 Depending on model, the frame immediately below the decking.
Flotation billets - the modular devices used to float the dock or structure.
        (rotary molded plastic billets foam filled)

Terminology and Anatomy info from http://www.westcoastfloatation.com/new/learn_about_docks.html