Safety Zone Established for Key West Paddle Classic on May 9, 2026

The Coast Guard is creating a temporary safety zone around Key West for the Key West Paddle Classic on May 9, 2026. The zone will be active from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. that day. It moves with the race, covering all waters from the surface to the bottom within 50 yards ahead of the lead safety boat, 50 yards behind the last safety boat, and 100 yards to either side of the paddlers.

Why it matters: This is a routine maritime safety measure to keep the 100 participating paddle craft, support boats, and spectators from colliding during a large public event. It does not change long-term navigation rules or restrict access to Key West outside of the event date and hours.

Who it affects

• Recreational boaters and commercial vessel operators navigating Key West waters on May 9, 2026, between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m.

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This rule was published by the U.S. Coast Guard, Sector Key West, in the Federal Register; verify the full text and any updates directly through the Federal Register before making navigation plans.

Agency: Homeland Security Department, Coast Guard
Source: Federal Register — read the official document