Club COF

A < 9m yacht does not need a SAS COF or SAS hull inspection, however she must have an annual Club COF. The Safety Officers can carry out this inspection which also includes the general condition of the boat. The owner must provide the approved marking (SA number /Club Registration Number), the radio call sign, and the insurance policy number. The flares for the required category must still have reasonable life left before expiry and the fire extinguisher(s) must be serviced. The life jackets must be of the correct certification; SAMSA approved and marked, level 100 (<15Nm offshore). The club COF costs R150.

SAS COF

A > 9m yacht requires an annual COF through SAS. The owner must book and pay for the COF on the SAS website (www.sailing.org.za) and send the pop to the safety officer who can carry out this inspection which also includes the general condition of the boat.  The owner must download and complete the SAS COF Checklist for the required category including the approved marking (SA number), radio call sign, (EPIRB registration cert with MRCC and life raft cert if applicable) are all required. The flares for the required category must still have reasonable life left before expiry and the fire extinguisher(s) must be serviced. The life jackets must be of the correct certification; SAMSA approved and marked level 100 (<15Nm offshore) or 150 (>15Nm offshore). The cost is determined by SAS based on the length of the boat.

SAS Hull inspection

Please note that the hull inspection must be valid or SAS will not issue a COF. The initial hull inspection is carried out by the safety officer. Once again, the owners must book and pay for the hull inspection on the SAS website and send the pop to the safety officer and download and complete the hull inspection form. This inspection is valid for two years, then the owner can then carry out and submit to SAS his own hull inspection on the relevant SAS form (at no cost). He will then get an extension for an additional two years. Finally, when the 4 years have expired, the hull inspection must be carried out by a safety officer again. The hull inspection covers the condition of the hull, through hull fittings, valves and pipework, prop and prop shaft, bearings, bushes and rudder. The cost is determined by SAS based on the length of the boat.