What the ORCV does
Racing
The ORCV runs all offshore racing in Victoria. Over the summer season, annual Bass Strait races are run to Victorian and northern Tasmanian coastal destinations and at Christmas time, the “Tassie Trio” comprising races from Melbourne to Launceston and Melbourne to Hobart, by either the traditional Westcoaster route or by the younger Eastcoaster route.
International transoceanic races are run to Vanuatu (M2V) every 4yrs and to Osaka (M2O) every 5yrs.
If you are not yet ready to exit Port Phillip Heads, longer distance racing is also conducted on Port Phillip with the Boxing Day Dash, the Winter Series which culminates in the Melbourne to Geelong Passage Race (M2G) in September and the Latitude Pursuit Race. A Double Handed Race is also held over 25nm in May each year, for those who really want to put themselves under the pump!
And for the women sailors, the inaugural ORCV Women Skippers & Navigators Race was launched in September 2013 as a return passage race from Geelong to Melbourne, with 27 women stepping up to skipper, supported by their female Navigators and Radio Operators and the generous boat owners and mentors. Get the vibe from the experience of a couple of “newbies” who stumbled into the race and will definitely be back for more.
Cruising
Not that keen on racing but love being disconnected from the shore and out on the water? There are many opportunities for crew to join delivery passages home after offshore racing. The advantage is that you don’t leave unless the weather is good, your bunk is always warm and dry and you don’t have to change headsails in the middle of the night. The camaraderie is great, you get to go places few people have the opportunity to experience and you can practise your skills without the pressures of racing.
The ORCV also offer a Cruising Division in their Winter Series on Port Phillip for a more relaxed racing experience.
Social
The ORCV has a reputation for great parties in a variety of exotic locations. From Osaka Japan to Port Vila Vanuatu to the Taste of Tassie in Hobart or the fabulous King Island “beef feast”, to the local get-togethers at the end of the Geelong and Boxing Day Dash races, there is always an excited bunch of sailors at the bar to share your stories with. Don’t like the journey, but love the parties? Come and join in the fun as support to Race Management and pick up some valuable skills along the way. No experience is required as the ORCV will train you for the job.
Training
The ORCV provides extensive training for all sailors throughout the year to help prepare you for your offshore voyaging, with courses for your personal preparation (Sea Safety & Survival, Apply First Aid & CPR, Radio Operators practical courses), to dealing with Weather and exiting the Rip at Port Phillip Heads.
One of the most popular activities is the Latitude Series, a combination of two off water seminars prior to a weekend of racing with a short “Ocean” race from Queenscliff into Bass Strait to a designated latitude and back to Portsea on the Saturday, followed by a “Bay” Pursuit race home from Blairgowrie to Sandringham on the Sunday. This event provides unique tactical & navigation challenges for ocean racers of all levels coupled with a competitor support program and mentoring support for ocean racing beginners, to transition from 'Round the Sticks' Bay racing to Ocean Racing. Highly recommended for a great fun weekend on the water.
For the transoceanic races, Long Distance Ocean Racing Seminars are run in the lead up to assist all sailors with all aspects of planning and preparation for such voyages.
Getting involved
Keen to join a crew or become involved in the ORCV?
If you are looking for a crew position, or are a skipper looking for crew, either for racing or delivery trips, register on the ORCV Crewfind Register.
Keen to be involved in Race Management? Theory training sessions are provided as well as the opportunity to work alongside experienced Race Directors in a variety of different races and locations. Go to the Race Management Training Register to register your interest.
Any queries or problems with registering, contact committee member
Membership
Membership of the ORCV confers significant benefits including discounts on all training and crew fees for racing as well as a free copy of the ORCV Yearbook. This excellent publication is updated every year and is the most comprehensive manual you will find as your guide for sailing in Bass Strait and beyond. All contributions come from experienced ocean sailors within the organisation, all of whom are happy to share their knowledge with you. Don’t leave home without it!
For only $250 per annum, join up now.
Support for Women
We are keen to assist you with discovering the joys of ocean racing: “seize the opportunity in the lifetime of the opportunity”! (Chay Blyth, British Steel Challenge). Contact one of our active “Ocean Girls” to chart your future course.
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