Coast Guard Restricts San Francisco Bay Traffic During Fleet Week

The US Coast Guard issued maritime restrictions for Fleet Week events in San Francisco Bay from October 9–11, covering vessel traffic near the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz to support safe naval and air demonstrations.

According to the US Coast Guard notice, regulated areas were established under 33 CFR 100.1105 and are being enforced through Local and Broadcast Notice to Mariners on VHF-FM Channel 22A.

Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary and law-enforcement vessels are patrolling the restricted zones, while mariners are advised to monitor VHF-FM Channel 22A for real-time enforcement updates.

The first regulated area covers much of the Central San Francisco Bay during the Navy Parade of Ships transit. According to the notice, enforcement took place on Friday, October 9, between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

The Coast Guard said vessels cannot cross the parade line or interfere with participating naval vessels. A 100-yard protective zone is also being enforced around each naval vessel while ships remain in port.

The second regulated area applies to the Fleet Week air show zone between the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. According to the notice, Federal Aviation Administration rules require the area to remain clear of vessel traffic during scheduled air show periods.

Temporary buoys marking the Air Show Box were installed for the event and are scheduled for removal on October 12, according to the Coast Guard notice.

The Air Show Box includes designated coordinates for its southwest, northwest, northeast and southeast corners, along with a center point in San Francisco Bay. The notice states some buoys may partially obstruct traffic lanes or encroach on precautionary areas.

Fleet Week events typically draw significant boating activity in the Bay, with vessels gathering to view performances by the US Navy Blue Angels and other aircraft.

The Fleet Week air show is scheduled in the sky between the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, while maritime restrictions remain in place to manage traffic during the events.