Maritime Fun Fact: The San Francisco Vessel Traffic Service maintains over 500 buoys that support safe water navigation.

Happy holidays to our maritime community! As we reflect on 2023, I am grateful for your continued support of the Port of Redwood City. We have continued to demonstrate our commitment to our three values: maritime commerce, waterfront recreation and serving Silicon Valley. A few highlights of 2022 accomplishments include hosting our beloved community event PortFest, launching new spring and fall concert series, gaining approvals for the ferry terminal project and facilitating a regional emergency exercise. We value our partnerships and look forward to continuing to collaborate in the new year. 

I would like to thank our Board of Port Commissioners for their leadership and vision and the City of Redwood City for their partnership. Together, we have supported the Port’s planning and operations to continue bringing international trade that boosts the greater San Mateo County region's economy. 

In this edition of Currents, we invite you to learn about our local Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service, refresh your water safety awareness and visit the Port for a delicious, local seafood meal. 

We wish you happy holidays and a joyful new year. 

Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service

Have you ever wondered how vessels navigate our waterways? The Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service (VTS), located on Yerba Buena Island in San Francisco, provides continuous monitoring and navigational guidance for vessels coming in and going out of San Francisco Bay. 

Vessel traffic services are essential just like airport traffic controllers. Members of VTS are highly trained to use technology and systems to prevent vessel collisions and ensure transportation efficiency. The San Francisco VTS supports approximately 7,500 vessels each month, and many of those vessels conduct international trade that contributes to our economy. The Port of Redwood City thanks VTS for its service to the maritime community. 



Learn more about our local San Francisco VTS by visiting their website. 

Winter water safety reminders

Winter is a wonderful time to make memories out on the water. Whether you’re kayaking, stand-up paddling, canoeing, sailing or boating, we want our community to stay safe on our waterways. Here are a few safety tips for water recreation at the Port: 

• Always carry a life jacket: Check your personal flotation device’s buckles, padding and overall fit before launching your floatation device from land.  
• Check paddle and oars: Inspect paddles and oars for cracks or broken pieces. 
• Routine tune-ups: Conduct a routine tune-up if you’re using an electric or fuel-powered vessel. 
• Check the weather and tides: Stay safe and alert by checking weather and tides before heading out. 
• Bring lights: Be prepared for sunset and have lights readily available on your vessel. 
• Dress in layers: Temperatures can change quickly so it’s best to come prepared with clothing layers that you can swap on or off during the activity. 

To learn more about water safety, read the Port’s waterfront user safety guidelines. 

Fresh fish tacos available at our waterfront

The Port partners with a number of vendors that provide public benefits. We are pleased to highlight our resident food truck, The Blue Fish Kitchen, which offers delicious, locally sourced seafood. The Blue Fish Kitchen works with local fishermen to provide quality seafood, including their recent additions to their menu: fried shrimp, mix seafood platter, clam chowder and more. 



If you’re looking for an easy meal for family and friends this holiday season, consider visiting the Port for fresh fish tacos or fish and chips. You’re bound to enjoy the food and beautiful waterfront views.  

The Blue Fish Kitchen is on Facebook. Click the link below to stay up-to-date on hours and offerings.