San Francisco Bay is cold water paddling. The average monthly water temp varies from 12 degrees Celius (53 Fahrenheit) to 16 degrees Celius (61 degrees Farenheight). When in doubt, dress to swim.
The Coast Guard has a program where you may register your GPS/DSC radio and with one button push they will know your location and that you need assistance.
Shipyard Rules and Safe Distances - from commercial/gov docks and ships