Coast Guard Bubbles Up Safety Zone for Narragansett Bay Swimmers
Published Date: 8/14/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is establishing a temporary safety zone for navigable waters on the West Passage Narragansett Bay. The safety zone is needed to protect swimmers, personnel, vessels, and the marine environment from potential hazards during a swim event. Entry of vessels or persons into this zone is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port, Sector Southeastern New England, or their designated representative.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary closure of West Passage waters
You may not enter the safety zone in the West Passage of Narragansett Bay that covers all navigable waters within 500 yards along a centerline from 41°29'32.5" N., 71°25'12.0" W. to 41°29'48.3" N., 71°24'15.4" W. during the event period from 10:30 a.m. on August 18, 2026 through 1:00 p.m. on August 19, 2026; enforcement is only from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on August 18, 2026 unless the event is delayed to the same hours on August 19, 2026.
Must get Coast Guard permission to enter
If you need to enter the safety zone during the enforcement hours, you must get specific permission from the Captain of the Port (COTP) or the COTP's designated representative and comply with their orders. The rule directs mariners to seek permission on VHF-FM channel 16 and notes that the day of enforcement will be announced by a Safety Marine Information Broadcast.
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