ORR Explained

Competitive sailors want to focus on refining their hull, sails, and equipment for peak performance—not on constantly adjusting ratings or switching boats. That’s where the Offshore Racing Rule (ORR) comes in. Driven by a sophisticated Velocity Prediction Program (VPP), ORR is a proprietary, annually updated system managed by the Offshore Racing Association (ORA), grounded in precise observation and the latest in naval research.

The ORR rule provides fair, objective ratings by calculating handicaps based on detailed measurements of each boat's unique speed-related characteristics. Through its advanced, always-improving VPP model, ORR estimates a boat’s potential performance across varied wind speeds and course angles, ensuring fair competition among different designs. The rule is non-type forming, meaning it fairly evaluates well-prepared, well-designed boats without encouraging rule-exploiting designs.

ORA is dedicated to responsibly managing and refining this rule, ensuring it aligns with the latest developments in boat design and performance data. By doing so, ORR supports the integrity of competitive sailing and provides reliable service to sailors, race committees, and organizers who bring these races to life.

Got questions? See the FAQ below.

Apply or Manage an ORR Certificate

US Sailing Offshore office is charged with acquiring, processing, and archiving all data to issue ORR certificates to boats based in the United States. To apply or manage an existing certificate, including ownership transfers, visit their website. To understand how a potential modification would impact a boat's rating, trial certificates are also available through US Sailing. Click here for pricing.

Questions about certificates can be directed to US Sailing at offshore@ussailing.org or 401-342-7953.


ORR Valid Certificate List

This is the current list of all valid ORR Rating Certificates. Certificate lists from past years are also available.


ORR Rule Book

The ORR Rule Book is the definitive resource for understanding measurement criteria, rule restrictions, ratings, and the requirements for competing under ORR.

Owners, Persons In Charge (PIC), sailors, designers, sailmakers, and boatbuilders are encouraged to consult the rule book to prepare for being rated and scored under ORR standards.

At the start of the ORR Rule Book, you'll find a Quick Start Guide—a user-friendly introduction designed to help individuals understand the essentials of racing under ORR.


ORR Polar Performance Packages

Polars provide competitive offshore racers with essential tools to maximize their performance on the water. Powered by the ORR VPP—widely regarded as the world’s best—these packages utilize the latest ORR data and cutting-edge calculation methods to analyze measurement data with precision.

This is an indispensable resource for offshore competitors, delivering actionable insights to help you extract peak performance from your boat using the most advanced data available.

A valid certificate is required to obtain a performance package.


ORR Race Management

At the Offshore Racing Association, we’re committed to helping race committees fully leverage the features and benefits of the ORR Rules. Our goal is to help reduce stress and ensure a fair and enjoyable event for all competitors by offering services and resources. 

Start here with a detailed explanation of the Rule.

Organizing Authority Resources

ORA is here to support everything from understanding the basics of the rules to creating class breaks, trophy lists, and scratch sheets. 

Race Committee Resources

Our team can advise you on selecting the best rating based on wind speed, course setup, or custom classes.

ORR Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question? Find our most commonly asked questions below.

How do I apply for a rating certificate?

Go to ORA website https://offshoreracingrule.org/ and click on ORR and follow links to apply.

What does it cost to get a new or renewal certificate?

It is a per foot rate based on the boats LOA. Click here for pricing.

Measurement requests go through the US Sailing Offshore office: offshore@ussailing.org

How long is a certificate good for?

One calendar year. All certificates expire after December 31st.

How do I request my boat to be measured?

Measurement requests go through the US Sailing Offshore office: offshore@ussailing.org

How do I apply for an ORR Performance Package?

Go ORR page on ORA website and click on ORR Polar Performance Packages

Is there a list I can check to see if I have a sister ship?
How long does it take to get a certificate?

It varies based on type, such as sistership, build a boat, measurement, etc.

If I have a custom boat what do I need to do to get a rating?

You have to determine whether the boat require a full or partial rating based on the event(s) you will be participating in. You will then have to request a measurement.

Do I need a certificate to get my boat's polars?

Yes, you must have an ORR certificate to purchase a Performance Package for your yacht.

How do I know if I need a full or partial measurement?

Check the event in which you will be racing and they will publish the measurement rule they will be racing

under.

If I modified my boat, can I just identify the changes on my renewal application?

Yes, there is a section on the renewal form to identify changes.

If I have questions regarding my certificate, is there someone I can talk to directly?

Yes, contact the US Sailing Offshore Office at: offshore@ussailing.org and they will be more than happy to answer any question you may have about your certificate or the process.

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