The U.S. Coast Guard is warning boaters on San Francisco Bay to expect congested and choppy conditions during Fleet Week 2009.
The U.S. Navy celebrations are expected to draw sailboats and powerboats to the San Francisco waterfront throughout the week, and Coast Guard officials advised mariners to anticipate water traffic, boat wakes and seasonal midday winds.
Boaters should check their safety equipment prior to disembarking and make sure there is a personal flotation device for each person on board, Coast Guard officials said. Taking excess passengers on board should be avoided.
“Between the Blue Angels aerial show and the Parade of Ships, Fleet Week provides impressive viewing events for both the boating and the general public,” U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. DesaRae Janszen said in a statement.
“The Coast Guard strongly encourages mariners to follow safe boating practices to ensure the events are safe and injury-free for everyone involved.”
