SANTA CRUZ HARBOR
NOTICE OF LAUNCH RAMP CLOSURE
Updated May 6, 2020

Santa Cruz Harbor's launch ramp will remain closed to general recreational use until further notice. The County of Santa Cruz shelter-in-place order directs all governmental agencies to cease non-essential operations at physical locations in the County; prohibit all non-essential gatherings of any number of individuals; and, cease all non-essential travel.

Only the following launch ramp activity is authorized during the closure:
  • Vessels engaged in commercial fishing (with valid permits)
  • First responder vessels
  • Existing marina customer vessels (slip renter, dry storage, annual launch permit holders)
The launch ramp is closed to all other activity.

The continued closure of launch ramps at all other harbors along California's Central Coast necessitates that Santa Cruz Harbor's launch ramp remain closed to general recreational use to protect its employees, business operators and users during this unprecedented public emergency, and discourage non-essential travel and large gatherings.

What if launch activity violates social distancing or non-essential travel requirements of the shelter-in-place order?
Further restrictions and/or shut-down of the launch ramp will be implemented immediately if activity is unmanageable or shelter-in-place orders are violated. Harbor Patrol will be actively monitoring ramp activity.

May I purchase an annual launch ramp permit?
There is a temporary moratorium on the sale of annual launch ramp permits. If launch activity is manageable and social distancing measures are achieved, this moratorium may be reconsidered and blocks of passes may be made available for sale on a lottery or drawing basis to ensure fairness in this period of heightened demand. UPDATE: The Port District performed a random drawing giving those selected an opportunity to purchase an annual launch ramp permit on May 6, 2020. To view the results of the drawing, click here.

Are slips available for rent?
There is a waiting list for slips at Santa Cruz Harbor. For information about joining the waiting list email scpd@santacruzharbor.org. 

Are slip sublets available for rent?
Check the Harbor Exchange section of Santa Cruz Harbor's website at for sublets available and wanted at www.santacruzharbor.org.

Marian Olin, Port Director
Santa Cruz Port District