The Ocean Cruising Club exists to encourage long-distance sailing in small boats and is the true 'Home Port' for the ocean-going sailor.

Members understand what it means to be at sea, to be completely reliant on our own skills, to be subject to the whims of Mother Nature, to be humbled and empowered at one and the same time. This is what sets us apart from other organisations, even as it draws us together as a group.

We bring the spirit of seafaring to our association by always being willing to assist any fellow sailor we meet, either afloat or ashore.

Every full member has made a 1,000-nautical mile offshore passage in a vessel of 70 feet or less; associate members are committed to the achievement of that goal.

This standard distinguishes us from all other sailing clubs. While this defines who can join the OCC, it is more than a collection of people who have made a long, offshore passage. In sharing their feelings about the OCC, our members try to describe something elusive and intangible.

They use words like camaraderie, like-minded, experience, accomplishment, non-elitist, adventurous, giving. The OCC offers us a place to be together, to share our experiences, to enjoy one another's company. Though it has no physical clubhouse, it is, in a way, the "home port" for all of us who have sailed long distances across big oceans.

OCC Members are cruisers who comply with international, national and local laws and regulations; respect communities, their customs, the environment and other people including other Members; demonstrate honesty, fairness and courtesy; and are responsible and accountable for their actions.