Maritime Fun Fact: Cranes unloading cargo from ships can be as tall as 316 feet, the same height as London’s Big Ben.

We are sailing through August and have some upcoming festivities for the whole family. There’s a lot to share this month about maritime and global trade, exciting community events, and National Coast Guard Day. 

Starting strong with a little lesson, you’ll learn about the importance of water depth and its impact on preserving a healthy supply chain. 

Next, the time is here to start blocking off your calendar for PortFest 2025 and Bay Day. On Saturday, Oct. 4, you can enjoy a day filled with fun hands-on activities, delicious food and more! 

We also wanted to highlight a significant holiday: National Coast Guard Day. We’ll dive into the Coast Guard’s history and recognize all Coast Guardsmen for their brave efforts to protect our nation at sea. 

Keep reading so you can see what’s keeping our ships on course and learning details about upcoming events in the Bay.

Warm Regards,

Kristine A. Zortman

Executive Director

Building a Resilient Supply Chain

Water transport is the least expensive mode of moving cargo. Even better, it significantly decreases air emissions for our environment. Maritime shipping plays a vital role in Silicon Valley’s booming supply chain. 

As the only deep water port in the South San Francisco Bay, we are a gateway for international trade ships. The depth of water in the Redwood Channel plays a key role in our resiliency: For each additional foot of depth, our ships can move approximately 5,000 more metric tons of cargo across our wharves. That’s equivalent to the weight of 833 orcas! 

Dredging — or the removal of sediments and debris — is the foundation of maintaining our channel’s depth, keeping our daily operations moving smoothly. As a designated Federal channel for commerce and navigation, the Port relies on the partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to maintain our channel's depth of 30 feet deep below the water surface.

The Port advocates for many elements that promote a more resilient supply chain, including

• Sharing the benefits of water transport
• Exercising better ways to move goods in and out of the Port 
• Investing in partnerships that advance maritime operations 
• Strengthening emergency resources 
• Monitoring shifts in federal policy and adjusting operations

PortFest, Bay Day and Rock the Dock

Get ready for fun activities along the Bay coastline. The Port of Redwood City and Save the Bay have exciting festivities for the whole family.

Mark your calendars for the Port of Redwood City’s PortFest 2025! Join us with your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of live music, food trucks, kid-friendly activities and more. 

Date: Saturday, Oct. 4

Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Location: 475 Seaport Court, Redwood City

Before heading to PortFest, join Save the Bay at their annual Bay Day event. Connect with nature by learning, restoring and exploring the edge of the Bay. 

Date: Saturday, Oct. 4

Time: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: Bedwell Bayfront Park, 1600 Marsh Road, Menlo Park

Stop by every Saturday for our free concert series Rock the Dock. Dance to groovy tunes by talented local musicians. 

Time: 3:30 to 6 p.m.

Location: 459 Seaport Court, Redwood City

Line up:

• Saturday, Aug. 23 – Masterpiece the Band
• Saturday, Aug. 30 – Native Elements
• Saturday, Sept. 6 – Groove Ride

National Coast Guard Day

The United States Coast Guard (U.S.C.G.) has been our protection at sea for more than two centuries. On Aug. 4, 1790, President George Washington’s administration  authorized the System of Cutters, now known as the Revenue Cutter Service, to protect the nation’s revenue by enforcing maritime laws. This date marked the birth of the Coast Guard. 

From controlling U.S. borders and maritime activities to conducting military operations, our U.S.C.G. serves us every day. Their duties translate to saving lives, enforcing federal law, leading national emergencies and preserving the exchange of maritime commerce. 

In honor of National Coast Guard Day, the Port wants to recognize the brave men and women who’ve protected our nation at sea. Their bravery and sacrifices will never go unnoticed, and we appreciate their partnership.