Coast Guard Enhances Maritime Security for World Cup

JUNE 15, 2026 — As cities across North America prepare to host the World Cup, the Coast Guard is implementing enhanced safety and security measures alongside international, federal, state and local partners.

The Coast Guard will have an increased presence during the next several weeks near Washington State ports, waterways, fan zones, and the shared maritime border with Canada.

To ensure public safety and maritime security, the Coast Guard will execute high-visibility operations, which include:

Enhanced Maritime Patrols: Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, and other law enforcement agencies will conduct marine patrols around waterfront fan zones in Seattle, Everett, Bellingham, Bremerton, Tacoma, and Olympia.
Ferry and Cruise Ship Escorts: During peak transit periods, tactical Coast Guard boat crews will escort Washington State Ferries and cruise ships. Coast Guard law enforcement personnel will also be onboard for ferry crossings. Mariners, boaters and paddle craft users are required to maintain a 500-yard distance from ferries and cruise ships. Vessels that need to transit within 500 yards should contact the Coast Guard or ferry captain via VHF channel 13/16.
Enhanced Waterfront Security: The public will notice an increased presence of Coast Guard law enforcement officers across ferry terminals, port facilities, and the broader waterfront to ensure a safe and secure environment for the community.

The Coast Guard urges boaters and paddle craft users to prioritize safety by adhering to the following guidelines:

Life Jackets: All boaters and paddle craft users—including those on kayaks and paddleboards—must carry a Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board. The Coast Guard recommends wearing them at all times.
Emergency Communications: Always carry a reliable, waterproof communication device, such as a VHF marine radio. Do not rely solely on cell phones. They don’t work when they fall in the water.
Cold-Water Preparedness: Despite warmer air temperatures, the waters of Puget Sound, local lakes, and rivers remain dangerously cold. Boaters and paddle craft users must prepare for the water temperature, not the air, to prevent sudden cold-water shock.
Navigational Awareness: Large ships have significant blind spots and require time and distance to maneuver and stop. Boaters and paddle craft users must maintain a safe distance.
Check the Weather: Conditions on the water can change rapidly. Always check the official National Weather Service marine forecast before departing and monitor for updates while underway.
Avoid Alcohol: Operating a boat under the influence (BUI) is illegal. Alcohol is the single biggest contributing factor in boating deaths.

Waterway users are advised to monitor VHF channel 16 for broadcasts as well as check the Local Notice to Mariners guidance before getting underway.

The Coast Guard’s Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) is prepared for increased vessel traffic throughout Puget Sound. VTS operates 24/7 alongside our Canadian partners to manage vessel traffic and federal anchorages across Puget Sound.

“The Coast Guard is proud to work alongside our federal, state, and local partners to help ensure the safety and security of World Cup matches in Seattle,” said Cmdr. Daniel Delgado, response department head, Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound. “With an anticipated increase in recreational boating activity, ferry operations, and regular cruise ship traffic, we are implementing additional measures to safeguard our ports and waterways. These efforts will help ensure the Marine Transportation System remains safe, secure, and efficient throughout the tournament.”

More information and resources for safe boating and the water during the World Cup can be found here:

Coast Guard b-roll and public domain imagery can be found on DVIDS at this link: https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/USCGNorthwest

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