Every October, San Francisco Fleet Week turns the Bay into one of the busiest stretches of water on the West Coast. As of last week, San Francisco Fleet Week is still taking place, but with a few adjustments. A federal government shutdown that began on October 1 grounded U.S. military demonstration teams, including the Blue Angels and other Navy crews.

The good news is that Fleet Week 2025 is moving forward. 

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds will still fly over the Bay, and many events like the Parade of Ships, concerts, and waterfront activities remain on the schedule. For Bay Area boaters, that means busy waterways, crowded anchorages, and a front-row seat to one of the most celebrated weeks on the Bay.

Bay Area Fleet Week 2025 Schedule

Dates: October 5–13
Parade of Ships: Friday, October 10 (morning)
Air Show: Friday through Sunday, October 10–12 (11 a.m.–4 p.m.)

This year’s air program features the Canadian Snowbirds’ precision formation flying, vintage warbirds, and the United Airlines 777 demonstration. Even with a reduced lineup, the views will be unforgettable, and the maritime energy around San Francisco Bay will be strong all week.

There will still be hundreds of spectator boats, charter vessels, tour operations, and every sailboat that can float.

What Bay Area Boaters Should Expect

• Heavy marine traffic: Hundreds of spectator boats, tour vessels, and yacht club outings will fill the Bay. Plan your routes and anchorage times early.
  
• Safety zones: The Coast Guard will enforce restricted areas near the air show box between the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. Monitor VHF 16 for updates.
  
• Noise and wake: Expect plenty of wake and activity on the water. Give yourself extra space and check your ground tackle before anchoring.
  
• Weather: October brings calm mornings, strong afternoon winds, and cool evenings. Bring layers and foul-weather gear even if the forecast looks clear.

Fleet Week Viewing Strategy (Where to Actually Watch From)

• Central Bay: North of Treasure Island or south of Alcatraz, offers excellent visibility without crowding.
  
• Point Richmond and East Bay: The Brickyard Marina gives you wide western views toward the show and calmer water away from heavy boat traffic.
  
• Angel Island (north side): A sheltered anchorage with great sightlines.
  
• Sausalito shoreline: Arrive early if you want a good position.

Avoid crowding inside the performance box. The Coast Guard will move boats that drift too close.

Your Fleet Week Sailing Survival Checklist:

Before you leave the dock:

• Check VHF Channel 16 and marine advisories
• Download offline charts
• Fuel up early to skip the lines
• Review safety zones with your crew
• Pack food, water, sunscreen, and extra clothing

On the water:

• Leave early to secure your spot
• Set an extra scope on your anchor
• Keep a lookout at all times
• Have fenders ready for close quarters
• Choose a backup anchorage in case your first choice is full

Why Our Richmond Marina? 

Watching Fleet Week from The Brickyard Marina means you get the view without the chaos. Deep-water slips, easy access to the Central Bay, and a sheltered basin create a more relaxed way to enjoy the show. You can take in the sights, feel the energy across the water, and still have a calm place to return when the crowds start heading home.

Fleet Week remains one of the Bay Area’s defining waterfront traditions. Whether you’re anchored near Angel Island or watching from your slip in Point Richmond, it is a week that reminds us why boating here is special.