SAILING SKILLS

The knowledge
The Coastguard has undergone a huge modernisation. See inside the technology keeping sailors safe

Learning curve
‘We dodged coral to deliver aid.’ A cruise to Papua New Guinea delivers medicine – and football boots

Expert on baord
Get ready for the season: 10 essential checks for your boat to ensure a great summer afloat

The big question
When is it appropriate to deploy a drogue?

A question of seamanship
‘Can we sail ourselves out of trouble?’

CRUISING

Golden Globe Race
With the start looming in July, Katy Stickland finds out what the solo skippers will be up against

Home waters
Why southern Brittany makes a beautiful base for continental cruising. Neil Gibbons moves his boat abroad

A long weekend
Falmouth offers a host of creeks, coves and taverns that make it perfect for a weekend cruise

Cruising life
The climber who hung up his crampons to go sailing

Anchorage
Kit Pascoe discovers the wild side of Guadeloupe

BOATS & GEAR

First test
Saffier Sc 8m: Graham Snook finds the small but perfectly formed cruiser a delightful boat to sail

Group test
Canvas cleaners: we test 12 products and find the best to get your sprayhood and covers back to their best

Find me a…
Centre-cockpit cruiser under £180K to go adventuring in comfort. Duncan Kent picks four of the best

New boats
Innovative ideas in two of this year’s new yacht launches