Sailing Skills

Expert on board: Man overboard myths busted
Man overboard is such a big concern that many of us chose to ignore it. Noel Dilly shares some controversial, thought-provoking ideas

What sort of wind?
What is a katabatic wind, and what is not? Not all sudden gusts are katabatic, as Chris Beeson explains

Should I stay or should I go?
With strong south westerlies approaching, would you leave your exposed anchorage, and where would you go?

Learning curve
‘How I sail oceans in my coastal cruiser.’ After a 1,000-mile shakedown, John Marley fits out for an ocean voyage

Any questions
• Why was I stuck in VAT limbo? • How much will cruising in Greece cost? • Is she a good sailer? • Who flies a Blue Ensign?

Cruising

Home waters: From Brittany to Holyhead
Alan Burns’ voyage home from France provided the best and worst sailing can offer

Adventure: Åland’s 6,000 islands
Rich history and beautiful anchorages await in the Finnish archipelago, says Maeve Bell

An insider’s guide to Gran Canaria
An island of contrasts, Gran Canaria offers good harbours and secluded bays

Cruising Log
Readers share their experiences: • Crossing the Atlantic in the days before GPS • Sailing the Channel for the first time • Cruising through the Baltic • A tough delivery from the Solent to the Clyde

Anchorages
Beautiful bays to anchor up for the night, from Herm in the Channel Islands to Ile de Port-Cros on France’s Côte d’Azur

Pilotage: West Wales passage planner
Jonty Pearce reveals his favourite local cruising grounds and the adventures that await

Boats and Gear

Used boat test: Moody 31 ‘Responsive, fast, fun and easy to sail.’
Dick Durham finds a small cruiser that sails like a dinghy

New boats
Hanse has launched an entry-level boat as well as three new models from 34ft to 54ft. Graham Snook takes a look

New boat test: RM 970
‘She’s a real sailor’s boat with a great cockpit layout.’ Graham Snook went to put her through her paces