Who we are

The Old Gaffers Association, or OGA, as it is now widely known, set out to preserve interest in and encourage the development of gaff rig. The gaff sail first made its appearance in Europe in the 17th century and has been in constant use ever since. Our Association takes its name from this rig. The name sometimes gives people the idea that we are only interested in old boats. This is definitely not the case ­ a large number of our members own newly designed craft, built using modern materials such as glassfibre, steel and ferrocement. Many members do own and sail wooden boats, some more than a hundred years old, which are of considerable historical importance. However, there is no requirement for a member to own a boat at all.

The objects of the Association, enshrined in our Rules, are to encourage interest in traditional rig, seamanship and comradeship; to offer help and advice to members, and to organise races and rallies. These and other events for gaff and traditional vessels of all sizes are our principle means of encouraging an active interest and an opportunity to meet like-minded people. It is largely due to the enthusiasm of our members taking part in these activities and the publicity that they attract, that gaff rig has made such a revival during the last forty years.

A few enthusiasts from the Solent and East Coast areas of England formed the Old Gaffers Association in 1963. Today we have a worldwide membership, with area committees organising events in various parts of the UK and the Republic of Ireland. We also have OGA branches in Western Australia and France and links with sailing organisations throughout Europe, Scandinavia, Canada and the USA. Our members keep in touch through the Association's quarterly newsletter, the Gaffers Log.

Membership of the Old Gaffers Association is open to all who are interested in sailing, building restoring or simply admiring traditional craft. If you are interested in becoming a member, or would like more information, follow the link below.