OSASA Resources
The Ocean Sailing Association of South Africa (OSASA) is the governing body for offshore and ocean racing in South Africa. This page provides quick access to their key regulations, safety rules, official forms, and contact details.
Visit OSASA's official websiteRegulations & Safety Rules
Core categories governed by OSASA under World Sailing Offshore Special Regulations.
Offshore Special Regulations
World Sailing Offshore Special Regulations (OSR) define the safety standards for all offshore racing. OSASA enforces Category 0 (ocean races around the world), Category 1 (long-distance offshore), Category 2 (extended offshore), Category 3 (coastal), and Category 4 (inshore) events in South African waters.
View OSR categories on OSASASafety Equipment Requirements
All vessels competing in OSASA-sanctioned events must carry mandatory safety equipment including EPIRB, life rafts, flares, jacklines, tethers, harnesses, AIS transponders, VHF radio, and first-aid kits. Requirements vary by race category.
Safety equipment listCrew Certification Requirements
Offshore crew are required to hold valid certificates: at minimum a Sea Survival certificate (STCW or RYA equivalent), First Aid, and a Short Range Certificate (SRC) or VHF Restricted Operator's Certificate. Skippers must hold appropriate offshore qualifications.
Crew certification detailsNotice to Competitors (NtC)
OSASA issues Notices to Competitors for all sanctioned events. NtCs may amend sailing instructions, specify time windows, mandatory waypoints, or additional local requirements. Competitors are responsible for reading all NtCs before the start of an event.
Current noticesOfficial Forms & Documents
Common documents required for OSASA-sanctioned events. All forms are available via osasa.org.za.
Crew Declaration Form
Required for all offshore events. Lists all crew members, their qualifications, and emergency contact details.
Race Entry Form
Official entry form for OSASA-sanctioned races. Submit with IRC/ORC certificate and crew list.
Safety Equipment Checklist
Pre-race safety inspection checklist aligned to World Sailing Offshore Special Regulations.
Medical Declaration Form
Crew medical fitness declaration, required for Category 0 and Category 1 offshore events.
IRC / ORC Rating Certificate
Vessels racing under IRC or ORC must hold a valid certificate. Obtain or renew via OSASA's rating office.
* All forms link to osasa.org.za. Yachty does not host or maintain these documents.
Key Contacts
Contact OSASA directly for race entries, safety inspections, and membership enquiries.
Other Authorities
Key South African maritime bodies every skipper should know.
SAMSA
South African Maritime Safety Authority
Statutory body responsible for promoting South Africa's maritime interests, ensuring the safety of life and property at sea, and preventing marine pollution. SAMSA issues certificates of competency, registers vessels, and enforces maritime law.
NSRI
National Sea Rescue Institute
Volunteer-based search-and-rescue organisation operating 24/7 across South Africa's coastline, inland waters, and dams. If you are in distress at sea, call the NSRI emergency line — they co-ordinate with MRCC Cape Town for offshore incidents.
For authoritative, up-to-date information
Always refer to OSASA's official website for the most current regulations, forms, and event notices.
Visit osasa.org.za