Maritime Fun Fact: Compared to roadway and airway transportation, ocean freight releases less carbon emissions and is more cost-efficient.

April is upon us – and with it, blooming flowers, warmer waters and a waterfront bursting with excitement.

But before we sail into spring’s festivities, let’s anchor ourselves in what makes this season truly special: Earth Day. At the Port of Redwood City, every day is Earth Day. Sustainability is integral to keeping our maritime operations smooth, our community safe and our planet thriving. Through ongoing investments in green projects, programs and initiatives, we’re proud to help lead the charge in shaping a cleaner, greener maritime future.

Now, let’s dive into the spring waterfront fun! Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 10, from 6-9 p.m., for an evening of seafaring fun for all. The annual free drone show is less than a month away, featuring a pirated theme event that will brighten the sky with nautical tales. I’m excited we’re able to bring this waterfront event back and bigger than ever! Oh, and don’t forget Rock the Dock every Saturday — where our talented local musicians bring nonstop energy to the waterfront well into the evening. 

The fun continues with the Marine Science Institute (MSI) at their summer marine science camp for grades K-8. From June 9 through August 8, MSI will offer a variety of camps to explore the magical wonders of the Bay and the local marine ecosystem. Take an adventure at sea or on land to immerse yourself in our marine life. Camp spots are limited, so register today. 

Read on for all the details — and get ready for a season packed with discovery, adventure and community fun.

Warm Regards,

Kristine A. Zortman

Executive Director

Beyond Earth Day: Our Year-Round Sustainability Mission

If you’ve ever wondered what keeps the Port’s maritime operations running smoothly, the answer lies in its unwavering commitment to sustainability through investments in green projects, programs and initiatives. It’s this dedication that keeps Port vessels afloat, improves the longevity of maritime infrastructure and strengthens global trading connections. 

As a certified participant in Green Marine – a voluntary certification program encouraging maritime enterprises to exceed their standard environmental obligations – we demonstrate our commitment to going above and beyond. Each year, we complete a self-evaluation to measure progress and ensure accountability in our efforts toward cleaner operations. Our participation isn’t just symbolic – it represents real, ongoing action to reduce our environmental impact.

This commitment is also backed by action. In fall 2024, the Port received a $1.9 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to advance alternative fueling projects, including hydrogen-based fuel options and infrastructure enhancements. This investment not only supports cleaner operations but also reinforces the Port’s role as a regional leader in sustainable maritime trade.

While Earth Day may be celebrated once a year, our commitment to the planet is year-round — because building a greener maritime industry starts with the choices we make every day.

2025 Drone Show Returns and More Rock the Dock Fun

Ahoy maties – argggh you ready for this year’s drone show featuring a thrilling pirate theme, sure to be a night of seafaring fun for all?  The Port of Redwood City is excited to host its annual free drone show with an evening of family fun, live music and a dazzling aerial display.

DATE: Saturday, May 10 

TIME: 6-9 p.m. 

LOCATION: 459 Seaport Court

Beginning promptly at 8:30 p.m., the night sky will light up with nautical pirate tales featuring more than 150 illuminated drones.

The evening will kick off at 6:30 p.m. with a live performance by Super Diamond – the Neil Diamond tribute band. Attendees can enjoy a range of family friendly activities including face painting, balloon art, inflatable slides and pirate character meet-and-greets. The first 400 kids to arrive will receive a free light-up pirate sword – so early arrival is encouraged for the best views and giveaways.

Throughout the evening a fleet of food trucks and vendors will offer several goodies from sliders and savory bites to ice cream and sweets. And Devil’s Canyon Brewing Co. will return to pour craft beer, wine and their famous root beer. Feast and enjoy a lively evening like a true buccaneer! 

Every Saturday, local musicians will create soundwaves along the Bay coastline at Rock the Dock. Between R&B, funk, soul, Latin rock and pop, this free concert series will have you dancing all night long. Bring your family, a dance partner or go solo for fun on Saturday evenings along the waterfront. 

Check out the upcoming bands docking at the Port for the next few weekends: 

• Saturday, April 26 – The Joint Chiefs
• Saturday, May 3 – Momotombo SF
• Saturday, May 17 – Fast Times
• Saturday, May 24 – Cocktail Monkeys

Concerts are from 3:30-6 p.m. at 459 Seaport Court and local food vendors will be available. We recommend bringing lawn chairs, blankets, jackets and refreshments. 

Summer Marine Science Camp

The summer season is slowly approaching which means the Marine Science Institute is preparing to host its spectacular summer marine science camp for young explorers. Discover and learn about the local marine habitats and ecosystems through immersive hands-on activities. All camps are available for grades K-8.

DATE: Monday-Friday from June 9 through August 8

TIME: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 

LOCATION: 500 Discovery Parkway, Redwood City, CA 94063

FEE: Varies per camp 

Hop aboard the Robert G. Brownlee research ship for an adventure at sea or stay ashore to discover the oceanic wonders of the Pacific coast. Camp availability is limited so secure your spot to become a San Francisco marine life expert.