SAN FRANCISCO — The Coast Guard will establish a regulated area in San Francisco Bay for the America’s Cup World Series races Aug. 21 to 26.
The regulated area extends from Crissy Field to Aquatic Park and will be in effect from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. each race day with the exception of Aug. 26 when the regulated area will be in effect from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The interior of the regulated area will contain a race area marked by stake boats that will fly large red America’s Cup flags. Vessels that have systems that can pick up the Automatic Identification Systems signal will see the race area outlined with virtual buoys. The race area size and location will vary depending on various daily conditions. Vessels may enter the regulated area but may not enter the race area defined by the stake boats.
Entry into or through the race area is strictly prohibited without receiving permission from the Patrol Commander via VHF-channel 23. Unauthorized entry may result in civil and, or criminal penalties.
People who plan to watch the America’s Cup races from the water are reminded to wear proper fitting life jackets. In 2011, 84 percent of all fatal boating accident victims were not wearing a proper life jacket. Alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Operating a vessel with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher is illegal in California. Vessel operators should check that all safety gear is aboard their vessel before departing the pier and ensure they have a sober boat driver.
In the event of an emergency the Coast Guard Sector San Francisco Command Center can be reached on VHF-channel 16 or at 415-399-3547.
