The concept of revitalization can be applied to many different processes and approaches connected to the actions on the obsolete coast and harbour areas. All these actions have a very high impact over the general structures of cities, although quite often, their goals are different or even contradictories. This article analyzes some of the very well known harbour revitalization projects all over the world and makes a clear classification depending on their targets: strengthening of the local economy (London and Melbourne), urban apace redistribution (Boston, Shanghai, Hong Kong) urban rehabilitation (Vancouver), put into practice cultures of new planning (New York, Rotterdam) development of new uses (Oslo, Genoa, Amsterdam) heritage recovery (Copenhagen, Chicago).