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2026–2027 Sail Canada OSR Prescriptions: Category 3 Monohull (Section-by-Section)

Sail Canada just released their prescriptions to the 2026–2027 Offshore Special Regulations (effective January 1, 2026).  The following is a summary highlighting the prescription that Sail Canada has made to the Category 3 Monohull OSRs.

For BC sailors, recent work by the BC Sailing OSR committee has brought  local harmonisation to the major events reducing the number of event specific amendments. This means less work to get ready for your Long Distance Campaign in BC. 

OSR 3.29 / Comms & Identification: AIS

  • AIS is mandatory for applicable Category 3 events in BC starting in 2026.

  • Transmit/receive AIS transponder required. Receive-only AIS does not meet the prescription where applied.

  • Don't forget to register your MMSI. Once registered, keep the registration information updated.

OSR 3.04 / Stability & Monohull Screening

  • Stability screening remains required for Category 3 Monohull compliance.

  • Acceptable screening documentation typically comes via ORC/IRC/STIX/ISO 12217-2 pathways.

  • See our complete blog post on stability screening here

OSR 5.01 / Personal Safety Equipment: PFD / Lifejacket Prescriptions


  • One compliant PFD/lifejacket per crew with 150n of inflatable buoyancy is required for Category 3 and one recharge kit per type of lifejacket.


There are some important updates here that make things a little easier. Sail Canada has prescribed an additional standard: in addition to ISO 12402-3 and -8, you can now comply with UL 1180 or UL 1180C. These standards are usually printed inside your lifejacket somewhere. If your lifejacket is ISO certified only, it’s likely not approved by Transport Canada. You may have to take extra precautions to ensure you're compliant with their (legal) requirements.

The World Sailing age requirement has not changed, but Sail Canada has prescribed that if the manufacturer permits, the user/owner can conduct the recommended servicing. Most lifejackets permit this, and this is a great cost saving measure from Sail Canada.

There is also a list of equipment to be included in your lifejacket (unchanged by Sail Canada) that is consistent with the international standards. A recharge kit is also required for each type of lifejacket carried.

  • Harness

  • Crotch/thigh straps.

  • Whistle.

  • Sprayhood

  • Whistle and retroreflective tape

This all means that you must have a 150n gas operated lifejacket - not a positive buoyancy lifejacket.

OSR 5.02 / Tethers

Sail Canada has not changed these requirements at the Cat 3 level, other than 

  • Tethers must be OSR-compliant for length, strength, and configuration as required by Category 3 and any event amendments.

  • Typical requirements include:

Action Checklist (Category 3 Monohull • Sail Canada)

  1. Confirm AIS transponder TX/RX where required by prescription/event.

  2. Confirm stability screening documentation is current and onboard.

  3. Audit PFDs/lifejackets: rating + required features.

  4. Audit tethers: hooks, lengths, stitching, UV wear.

  5. Pull event amendments for race-specific additions.

  6. Present gear clean, accessible, within valid expiry for inspection.

  7. Update documentation and crew on locations and use of all safety gear.

Your Situation

It's important to remember - we are providing quick highlights. It’s still important to dig into the official documents as a starting point. Sail Canada has provided individualised documents for your race and type of boat. But, also, there are specific rules for double handing now that we have not gone into. Those rules are designed under the assumption that one person is incapacitated, and the other has to do all the work - so, things like lights need to be ready to hand.

Source Documents

Use the official Sail Canada Special Regulations page for the current prescriptions and any forthcoming clarifications. Use each event’s amendments package for race-specific additions. The work of BC Sailing in bringing together the major races means that there should be fewer and fewer race specific amendments. 

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Disclaimer: The safety information and advice shared in this article are for general guidance and information only. Every skipper and vessel operator is solely and ultimately responsible for the safety of their crew, boat, and decisions made on the water. All skippers must ensure they are fully informed, exercise their own judgment, and comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and race rules. Readers should do their own research and consult with qualified professionals as needed, as situations on the water can vary widely and may require different actions.

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