JUST IN | Three dead, two missing after five go overboard off Mossel Bay

Three people have died, and two are still missing after an incident at sea about 90km off the Mossel Bay coast on Wednesday, officials said. 

The five people were aboard a vessel about 47 nautical miles offshore when the incident happened.

"We can confirm there has been an incident," transport department spokesperson Collen Msibi said.

"Three bodies have been recovered, and two people are still missing."

Msibi said the SA Maritime Safety Authority (Samsa) would investigate what caused the incident, while the search for the two missing people continued.

In a holding statement, Samsa said the five people had gone overboard.

Samsa said the incident was reported to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, which activated the search and rescue operation and was coordinating it.

It is understood that two of the bodies were flown by helicopter to George Airport, while the third was brought to Mossel Bay late on Wednesday night.

Helicopter crews were also involved in the search.

"As search and rescue efforts continue, Samsa is unable to provide further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident," the authority said.

"Samsa will provide further updates as and when verified information becomes available.

"Members of the public and media are requested to refrain from speculation and rely solely on official information issued by Samsa regarding this incident."

Samsa said it would issue a more detailed statement later.