Paddleboard Race Shuts Down Key West Waters for Safety
Published Date: 5/6/2026
Rule
Summary
On May 9, 2026, the Coast Guard will set up a temporary safety zone around Key West for the Key West Paddle Classic, where about 100 paddleboarders will race. Boats and people can’t enter this zone unless they get special permission, keeping everyone safe during the event. This rule only lasts from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. and doesn’t cost anyone money but means boaters need to plan ahead.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
One-day boating exclusion in Key West
On May 9, 2026, from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., a moving safety zone will close parts of Key West waterways for the Key West Paddle Classic. Vessels and people may not enter the course (which runs from the Beachside Resort through Cow Key Channel, Higgs Beach, Fort Zachary Taylor area, Key West Harbor, and Fleming Key Cut) unless authorized; the zone extends 50 yards ahead of the lead safety vessel, 50 yards behind the trailing safety vessel, and 100 yards on each side of participants. To get permission to enter, contact the Captain of the Port or their representative on VHF-FM channel 16 or by telephone at 888-245-9727.
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