Afloat's Spring Issue hits the shops at the end of this week and here's a sneek peek at some of what's inside our St. Patrick's day issue.

News/People/Events

Over a dozen pages of Irish maritime news from Galway Hookers in Abu Dhabi and giant Ribs in Red Bay to the very latest in electric boats

Learn to Sail

As the year unfolds and you start to think of new beginnings, why not let yourself be tempted to try sailing?

Olympic Prospects

In one hundred days, at least three Irish boats are Olympic bound. We can win but only if we improve our consistency

Mitsubishi Youth National

Championships Preview 400 Irish youth sailors get the opportunity to fight for a place to represent Ireland at April's Mitsubishi Youth National Championships

Afloat's Sailor of the Year

George Kenefick of Cork is the new Afloat.ie/Irish Independent "Sailor of the Year" after an exceptionally diverse and successful season

Inland

Numbers of registered boats increased on both the Shannon and the Erne last year. How?

PLUS

Dublin Bay 2012 Preview, Sydney-Hobart Win for Irish Sailor, Cruising Awards, Silver Medal Sophie and all our regular features including Island Nation and Soundings.