Part one of a series about racing the Atlantic in small boats, from the Contessa 26 to Mini Transat.

If you want to sample warm seas and breezes, then flotilla or bareboat charter saves the expenses and time of sailing your own boat to warmer climes.I found the only non-corporate flotilla company at the boat show, 30 years of trading as a family firm - excellent!

How to select a suitable liferaft, we talk to Matthew Barr of Premium Liferaft Services, Keith Taylor about sea survival courses and Christian Brewer about new kit from Barton Marine

The must have gadget in the cockpit and how to set up your power systems, we talk to Raymarine and Merlin equipment at the London Boat show Jan 2009

This edition is all about choosing the right sail cloth for the job, racing , cruising, or cruiser racer, Matt Atkins helps solve the puzzle.