·noun That part of the sea at a good distance from the shore, or where there is deep water and no need of a pilot; also, distance from the shore; as, the ship had ten miles offing; we saw a ship in the offing.
Implies to sea-ward; beyond anchoring ground. ♦ To keep a good offing, is to keep well off the lan...
The Sailor's Word-Book
To keep well off shore while under sail, so as to be clear of danger should the wind suddenly shift ...