Tom Howard, along with son Leo and daughter Lyn, celebrate their success in the prestigious Commadore Cup but when Tom reveals he has been made redundant from Southern Aviation, none of his family is too happy. Jack Rolf is concerned that his business, The Mermaid Boat Yard, is about to go bankrupt. Tom discusses his problems with Avril Rolf and considers investing his redundancy in the Boat Yard.
Ken Masters is interested in taking over the Mermaid Yard. He employs Leo Howard at the local pertol station and is eager to employ Jan. Meanwhile, Jan and Tom argue incessantly about how he should spend his redundancy money. Polly Urquhart's daughter Abby returns from finishing school but she has not turned out how the Urquhart's expected. Avril tries to prevent Tom from making a foolish investment. In order to raise more capital, Tom asks Avril to find a buyer for the Flying Fish.
Tom confesses to his family that he has invested in the Mermaid Boat Yard and his family is livid about the sale of the Flying Fish. Abby finds settling into the Tarrant social scene rather a challenge. Tom begins work at the Boat Yard where Avril remains coy about the buyer of his boat. Jan’s mother, Kate, encourages her to accept Ken’s offer of work. A distressed Abby takes some drastic action.
Leo acts like a hero. Jack has reservations about Tom’s approach to the Mermaid Yard and Avril is caught in the crossfire. Abby’s relationship with her mother continues to be a difficult one. Tom and Jan have a frank discussion about the state of their marriage when Jan finds herself preoccupied with her job at Ken Master’s company. Lynne expresses an interest in participating in the impending Fast-Net boat race and Philip Morton is looking for some crewmembers.
Avril and Jack continue to disagree over the future of the Yard and Tom's role in the decision making. Jan offers Ken some business advice over dinner, much to Tom's annoyance. Leo takes a shine to Avril but Abby feels left out in the cold. Kate rescues Jack from a ditch and they have a heart to heart about business and family matters. Lyn and Tom sail the Flying Fish for one last time.
Abby secretly leaves for Southamptom leaving all in Tarrant mystified. Lyn is perturbed by Phil Norton's agenda and blows her chance of crewing for him. Charles Frere shows an interest in developing the marina. Ken uses his knowledge of who really bought the Flying Fish to drive Tom and Jan further apart.
Over dinner with Tom, Avril confesses to buying the Flying Fish. Polly encounters Charles at a gallery opening but does not get the reception she desires. She later admits to Jan that Gerald is not Abby's father. Ken continues to cause friction between Tom and Jan. Charles expresses an interest in purchasing the Mermaid Yard and saving it from financial ruin. When he pays Avril a visit, the true nature of their past relationship emerges. Tom comforts Avril following her unexpected encounter with Charles.
Charles and Ken come to gentleman's agreement about the planned marina. Jack turns to drink when the yard loses the German business contract and the bank threatens to foreclose on on the loan. Charles talks with Avril about purchasing the yard. When Tom wants to re-mortgage their home, Jan turns him down flat. Meanwhile, Ken offers Jan a helping hand and Leo finds Abby. Jack is outraged, yet again, by Tom and Avril's decisions about how to run the yard.
Charles enlists Gerald's help in his plans to develop the marina. Tom and Jan come to a financial agreement even though their marriage is over. Leo is determined to help Abby and her unborn baby. A mysterious man, Richard Shellet, claims to have a genuine claim over the Mermaid Yard. Jan travels to London where she meets fashion photographer Claude Dupont. Lyn has great success in the Fast Net race and Ken naively agrees to go into partnership with Charles.
Tom and Avril's first night together is interrupted by a boating accident. When it emerges that the boat was recently serviced by the Mermaid Yard, there are criminal charges to answer. Leo becomes suspicious of his father's relationship with Avril. Jan is angered when Ken tells her what has been going on. Richard Skellet pursues his claim on the Mermaid Yard and it emerges he has a backer with a vested interest in gaining ownership of the yard.
The legal battle between Jack and Skellet over the Mermaid Yard hots up. Tom adapts his boat designs to appease Jack while Charles and Ken's plans for the marina development forge ahead. Charles seduces Lyn and learns of Tom and Avril's affair. Jan receives a business offer from Claude Dupont and a personal offer from Ken. Kate invests in a racehorse. Polly interferes in her absent daughter's life.
There is descent at the Boat Yard because Tom, Avril and Jack are all too preoccupied elsewhere. Jan and Ken celebrate the opening of their new business venture, the Periplus Boutiquie. Shellet is happy to receive payment from Charles as they await the outcome of the legal action. Tom and Avril get support over his latest design from Relton. Charles and Lyn spend time together but she has doubts about his sincerity. Polly and Abby come to blows with potentially fatal consequences.
Relton Marine is apprehensive about investing in the Boat Yard's latest project. Lyn's altered behaviour causes Tom and Jan some concern. As Charles waits for his American wife to arrive, news of his past relationship with Polly becomes public knowldge. Abby gives birth but her relationship with her own mother continues to be problematic. Tom and Jan agree to a divorce and Relton makes Avril a lucrative offer. When Lyn finds Charles in a compromising position, disaster strikes.
Shellet's criminal history is raised in court. When Lynne goes missing, a worried Jan phones Frere's yacht. Jack's solicitor tricks Shellet into self-incrimination. Ken minimizes Jan's fears for Lynne. The Shellet-Rolfe court case is decided. Jan turns to Tom when Lynne can't be located. Leo gives Tom a lead to Lynne's disappearance, and later, Tom finds a clue on the jetty. Frere refuses to cooperate with Tom. Jan learns that Lynne may have been involved in an accident near Frere's yacht. Polly continues to insinuate herself into Abby's life. Frere informs Ken of his latest decision regarding the marina project. Polly taunts Leo about Abby's American lover. Contacted by the police, Tom brings news to Jan and Kate about Lynne's disappearance.
After the police inform them that Lynne has been found, Tom and Jan rush to the hospital where they're devastated by what they find. Leo feels that things will change when Abby's American lover Orrin Hudson arrives in Tarrant. Shellet threatens Frere. An infuriated Jan awaits Tom, who must take the Barracuda out for a crucial test run. Avril suggests than Jan doesn't know her husband very well at all. Polly implores Gerald to greet Orrin with her. Kate confides in Jack that her financial future hinges on a horse race. Frere ignores Gerald's advice to pay off Shellet. Leo can't hide his frustration over the situation with Lynne. Polly uses Orrin and Leo in her quest to make Abby return home. Orrin receives an odd reception from Gerald. Ken proposes another partnership with Frere. Jan reels at the latest news about Claude.
Frere examines Ken's proposed wildlife reserve development, but privately cautions Gerald to keep his involvement completely anonymous. Orrin wants to make an honest woman of Abby. Leo vows to stop Ken's land development. Avril is pursued by the parent company, which wants a big publicity stunt to launch The Barracuda. Jack stuns Avril with his commitment to the launch. Abby joins Leo's environmental fight, much to the chagrin of Orrin and Polly. Avril learns it's too late for Jack to back out of a dangerous stunt. Tom gives Ken the facts about the Howard children. Shellet goes to Gerald for his ticket out of Tarrant, but Gerald has been advised by Frere to turn him away. Sir John serves Ken his most expensive cup of coffee ever. Tom steers The Flying Fish toward danger to get Lynne back.
Shellet noses around the marina and later concocts a potentially deadly surprise for Jack. Avril finds Frere an unwelcome visitor in her home, and he's also warned away by Tom. Jan bristles when Lynne volunteers to help her father safeguard The Barracuda. Avril learns about Jack's disaster at sea. Ken delays making a firm commitment to Jan and Claude's fashion venture. The CID questions Jack. Frere demands that Gerald expedite divorce proceedings. Claude and Jan disagree about Ken's jealousy. Frere envisions a development that exceeds Ken's dreams, and later, he sets a personal scheme in motion. Ken says "yes" to one partner but "no" to another. Tom discovers that two of his most precious possessions are missing.
Tom discovers that Lynne has hijacked The Barracuda, and she refuses to return. Jan decides to go to the bank on her own if Ken won't agree to financing. Ken makes moves to ensure that conservationists don't interfere with his marina development plans. Jan rails at Ken after learning of Lynne's perilous journey. Polly interrupts a serious talk between Abby and Orrin. Lynne makes great headway in her journey. Frere solves the problem of his unnecessary marriage. Jack realizes Shellet was responsible for the accident that nearly killed him. Ken attempts to bribe Claude. Kate confides in Jack that she's in serious financial trouble. David makes a personal proposition to Avril. Lynne faces rough seas in the North Atlantic. A surprise face joins the fight against Ken's marina. Jack confronts Shellet. Tom receives devastating news about The Barracuda that he must share with Jan.
Frere decides that Ken's becoming a liability and schemes to squeeze him out. Polly inadvertently creates a potential problem for Abby. A defensive Bill questions Tom's design specifications. Troubles mount for Ken when Steve Wyndham, a local reporter, digs deeper. A financially strapped Kate decides to sell something dear to her. Two people on opposing sides need Leo's help. Lynne tries in vain to reach someone by radio contact. Abby and Leo gain more solidarity in their fight. Jack has a tantalizing proposition to help Kate get out from under. Lynne finds a surprise chaperon awaiting her in America and becomes the toast of New York. Kate and Jack make a killing at the racetrack. Leo and Abby learn the identity of stranger watching them, and then their peaceful demonstration turns violent.
Leo, in hospital, finds himself facing criminal charges. Jack sees a familiar face tending bar at the Jolly Sailor. Frere threatens Ken. Polly and Abby disagree about the best way to proceed with the court case. Orrin's father Robert Hudson arrives in Tarrant with plans to make trouble if Abby refuses to marry his son. Wyndham tells Abby that he may have proof of Ken's bribery. Robert issues a threat against Abby. Jan meets with the bank. Avril gives an impassioned speech to disgruntled workers at the Mermaid yard. Tom welcomes Lynne home. Polly confronts Leo and reveals something about Ken. Abby and Leo offer Ken a choice, but Frere refuses it, and leaves Ken as the fall man. Abby faces an impossible choice. Jan reminds Ken that he's learned a very expensive lesson. Ken's catamaran is christened. Polly has a trump card to play with Frere.
Leo and Gerald reassure Abby that the decision she made was not a selfish one. Gerald guesses why Frere changed his mind about the marina development and confronts Polly. Financial pressures move Jack to a desperate act, and his new distraction decides to move on, too. After Lynne breaks the good news, Jan cautions her daughter about past events. Bill threatens to resign from the Mermaid yard when no one heeds his warning that Tom's new catamaran has a serious design flaw. Polly refuses to answer Abby's nagging question, and later, she goes to Frere to plead Gerald's case. Jan's new business remains at risk. Leo seeks a job from Tom. Kate appears as Jack's guardian angel once again. Avril goes to great lengths to ensure that she and Tom remain their own masters. While at sea, Tom comes to a devastating realization.
Bill is ready to gloat over Tom's premature return. Avril accuses her father of being hungover again. Dawn introduces Ken to Mark Foster. Gerald assures Frere of his loyalty. Polly urges a depressed Abby to put her decision behind her and move forward. Jack attempts to dodge complaining customer Caroline Davis-Segram. Jan learns she needs Tom's consent to get a business-saving loan. Kate makes a success as Jan's new saleslady. Tom can't isolate a fault in his calculations. Leo warns Abby against getting involved with extremist Curtis Jaeger. Ken proposes a sales shows and racing partnership with Foster. Jack has a change of heart regarding Caroline. Kate refuses to give Ken a second chance. Frere digs into the past of one of the Urquharts. Tom's support touches Jan. Abby ignores Leo's sound advice. Jack and Bill rejoice in a return to their old way of doing business.
Jack's vow to keep Caroline as a client only is short lived. Jaeger pays an ominous visit to the Urquhart home. Avril suggests that the board prepare to fight Frere, who they suspect is behind the takeover bid. Sonia admits to Jan that a vendetta against Claude is affecting her suppliers. Polly and Abby quarrel when Abby raises the question of her paternity. Claude refuses Jan's request. Kate signs without a solicitor. Ken talks business with Sarah Foster and later with Kate. David accuses Avril of divided loyalties, and she thinks he doesn't know which way to jump. Tom and Lynne share a sentimental moment on the eve of her wedding. One Tarrant resident is leaving town. David accepts a secret, rather unethical invitation.
Kate reveals to Leo the depth of her debt. Abby surprises a bloodied Jaeger. Sir John questions the value of Frere's offer. Sarah changes her attitude when Ken joins her and Mark at the yacht club. Leo and Abby's friendship disintegrates. Gerald and Polly question Abby about Jaeger. Tom feels disrespected by Jack's design for Caroline's yacht. Jaeger has a plan in mind for Abby. Frere's proposed takeover of Relton Marine goes public. Kate needs Jack's sympathetic ear. Sarah and Ken exchange sexual subtext as Mark begins his power race. Leo rages at Jan's lack of attentiveness. Avril warns Tom that Frere could soon control Relton Marine and stop the Barracuda franchise.
Avril learns about Frere's success. Ken enters into partnership with the Fosters. Jan invites Kate to live with her. Jaeger spies on Southern Laboratories. Abby decides to leave home. Polly continues to evade Abby's questions. Avril refuses to tell Tom who she suspects gave Frere insider information. Jack rejects Avril and Tom's concern over the Frere takeover. Abby says goodbye to Leo. Jan lets Ken know where things stand between them, and he advises her to think carefully before turning him away. Leo discusses with his mother his feelings for Abby. The honeymooners return home. Tom receives more bad news.
Tom needs answers from Mrs. Travis to understand why the catamaran broke apart. Kate listens to Tom, who fears Avril's relationship with Frere. Polly asks Frere to help her keep Abby away from Jaeger. Abby turns to Leo after realizing what Jaeger's all about. Writs are served against the Mermaid yard and against Tom, while the Lynette is impounded before Tom can discover whether or not his design held a structural flaw. Jack and Avril suspend Tom from work, but Bill offers to support him in court. Just before Jan's fashion line launch, Lynne and Claude are involved in an accident. Following a talk with Frere, Abby tells Leo that she has to go to America. The Howard family faces yet another tragedy.
The arrival of Sir Edward Frere surprises Sir John. Jan finds retailers dropping their options for her second line and realizes she must find another designer. Meanwhile, the Mermaid yard continues to lose business over unanswered questions surrounding the catamaran disaster. Jan urges Leo to move on with his life. Polly issues a warning to Gerald. Kate admits to Jack that she's had one last fling at gambling. Deciding to open her own line of boutiques, Jan tells the bank she intends to buy out Ken. Avril warns Tom that Frere will probably withdraw The Barracuda. Sarah sides with Mark against Ken and cools their affair. Avril pleads Tom's case, but Frere reminds her that he doesn't have patience for losers. Sir Edward suggests that Sir John sever his business relationship with Frere Holdings. Frere realizes that the competition is his own father.
Frere rejects Sir Edward's offer. Jan meets with young design student Anna Lee. Kate offers to listen to Polly's problems. Tom and Jack are disappointed with the verdict rendered by the coroner's court. Jan and Tom must decide whether or not to continue with divorce proceedings. Polly bristles when Gerald is forced to cancel another dinner. Bill tempts Jack back to the bottle. Amanda Parker plays another joke on Leo. Tom wants to know if his relationship with Avril is over. Gerald declines to share his problems with Polly. Jan doesn't get what she wants from Ken. Sarah and Ken plan an assignation while a suspicious Mark is away at a race. Tom and Jack disagree over yard layoffs after the bank puts a stop to their cash flow. Frere makes a decision about The Barracuda.
An enterprising Leo goes into business for himself. Gerald won't divulge to Polly details of his call from Dr. Reynolds. Tom accuses Frere of pursing a personal vendetta against him. Jan deals with Mr. Lee to acquire Anna as her new designer. Amanda becomes Leo's first customer. Sarah wants to tell Mark the truth about her affair with Ken. Jan learns of Sir Edwards' venture capital fund. Tom faces more bad news from his solicitor. Frere attempts to discover whether or not Sir Edward has invested money in the consortium. Gerald's rage astonishes Polly. Avril questions Frere's relationship with his father. Jan doesn't get the answer she wants from Ken. Jack attempts to sell an order to the Admiral. Frere insists to Avril that he won't involve his father in any deal. Sir Edward decides to teach his son a very expensive lesson.
Jack finds himself in a position to ask Avril for help. Mark challenges Ken in the upcoming speedboat race. Jan makes an impression on Sir Edward when she presents her business plan to the committee for the private venture capital. Leo admits to Amanda that he's never really had a girlfriend. The surveyors give their opinion that the catamaran disaster was a result of faulty design or construction. Sir Edward dines with Jan. When Ken cools their passion, Sarah accuses him of thinking of Jan. Amanda wants a partnership with Leo. Kate warns Jan to not make the same mistake with Edward that Lynne did with his son. Gerald shares something deeply personal with Polly. Sir Edward gives Jan the committee's decision. Kate and Jack get through to Tom. Ken comes out on top in the race, but Mark wins another battle.
Sarah worries about Mark who has vanished. Jan moves forward with her retail shops. Tom receives notice that his divorce is final. Charles takes a financial risk against Gerald's advice in order to fight Sir Edward. Sir John severs his ties with Frere. Ken speculates who might be behind their loss of sponsorship. Polly learns the identity of Gerald's sick friend. Jan asks about Sir Edward's late wife. Leo meets Amanda's father who offers to save him from a very embarrassing situation. Polly refuses to tell Frere what's bothering Gerald. Jan has to go to Avril for retail space in the marina development. Jan and Tom toast Emma Neesome in hope that she'll clear Tom. Frere learns that Avril and Tom are no longer together. Mark returns with an explosive plan.
Amanda attempts to apologize to Leo for her deception. Sir John wonders about Ken's vulnerability now that Sarah own two-thirds of the business. Jan can't resist Sir Edward. Jack persuades Avril to ask Frere for money. Tom goes to Jan with an offer of an investment instead of a loan. Sarah holds herself and Ken guilty. Emma believes she knows what happened to the catamaran, but she can't prove it without evidence. Polly is unable to help Gerald whose emotional state continues to deteriorate. Leo and Amanda help Jack with his mission, while Emma and Tom search for facts. Kate meets Sir Edward at the races. Avril and Frere grow closer in France. Sarah's decision shocks Ken. Frere receives bad news from Gerald. Just as Tom is ready to break distressing news to Jack, a discovery is made.
Jack's elation wanes when Tom informs him how Jan saved the Mermaid yard. Ken cautions Sarah, but she insists they both must pay. Anna decides that she has to leave. Leo has an unpleasant meeting with Amanda's parents at the yacht club. Avril encourages Frere to see his father. Kate tells Jan that she doesn't recognize the person she's becoming. Ken has an offer for Leo. Jan presents Tom with a design challenge. Sir John warns Edward that Frere is overextending himself to the point of ruin. Emma brings Tom the proof he needs and suggests how to proceed. Leo tires of playing games with Amanda. Polly finds herself alone again and wondering what Gerald has done. Amanda proposes that Leo make an honest woman of her.
Frere refuses to change his mind about the Barracuda. A journalist approaches Tom. After Sarah's behavior in front of an important client, Ken erupts in anger. Gerald stuns Polly when he tells her how James died. Ken goes to Tom and Jack with an unexpected commission. Leo picks a very inopportune moment to announce his good news. Tom reassures Emma that he hasn't phoned her because of all the broken ends in his life. Jan breaks the news of Anna's departure to Sir Edward. Tom intercedes with Amanda's father. Frere calls in a favor. Mr. Parker concedes defeat. Ken learns that Frere has reason to gloat again. Frere summons Gerald. Polly wants a second chance in her marriage. A surprise visitor arrives at the Howards' celebration.
A personal diversion makes Jack late for the race, but speed racer Richard Spenser comes to the rescue. Jan demands an explanation from Anna. Frere's reaction to James' death surprises Gerald. Ken sends Sarah off. Sir Edward makes a tantalizing offer to Gerald and Polly, while Richard encourages Avril to make him a better offer. Anna confides in Kate. Leo and Hanley come to blows over Amanda. Avril supports Jan, who challenges Frere on the Barracuda's withdrawal at Relton's board meeting. Frere cautions Jan that his father will use her. Leo blames Amanda for encouraging Hanley's interest. Tom's fortunes begin to change overnight.
Mr. Lee visits Anna with an offer of a second chance, but she continues to disobey him. Leo's jealousy is incited when Amanda flirts with Ken. Polly and Gerald enjoy their newfound happiness. Ken chooses to ignore David's warnings regarding Frere. Leo throws Amanda's friends out of the cottage. Jan grouses that the men at the Mermaid yard aren't staying on schedule, and Jack tells her off. Polly tells Gerald that she wants to work. David encourages Leo to interest Mr. Parker in Ken's business. Anna collapses during the fashion shoot at Sir Edward's estate. Kate refuses Jack's request to intercede with Jan and Tom at the Mermaid yard. Jan spares Polly the worry of asking for a job. Leo admits to Kate that things aren't going well with Amanda. Frere puts another one over on Ken.
Ken reassures Sarah that he needs her. A nervous begins her first day at work. Jan and Tom spend a day reminiscing at sea. Frere talks with his father. Ken meets Mr. Parker to discuss going public. Sir Edward gloats at his press conference with Frere. Jan wants the Mermaid directors to consider Relton for Tom's new design. Anna admits to Jan that she felt uneasy at Sir Edward's estate. Jack and Kate are at odds again over Jan. Sir Edward and Sir John entertain Mr. Parker, who they earmark as a decoy. Ken wants Jan to consider reigniting their relationship, but she questions his motive in hiring Leo and dealing with Parker. Leo and Amanda argue when she stays out late with friends. Sarah cautions Ken to avoid business dealings with Jan. Leo takes Kate's advice about Amanda, but it backfires. Avril and Frere witness a freak accident.
Frere questions Gerald about Hitoshi Serozawa, whose father was ruined by Sir Edward. Ken gloats over the publicity Relton received from Richard's accident. Jan informs Tom that Ken's check was returned. Frere learns that Sir Edward may also be interested in Ken's company. Richard encourages his visitor to stay. Vanessa reminds Jack that they have no future, only a past. Amanda gives Leo a painful confession. Ken suggests to Jan that Sir Edward is making trouble for him in order to drive a wedge between them. A guilty Polly tells Gerald about the affair she didn't have. Emma introduces Tom to Otis Seymour of the consortium. Leo admits that he married the wrong woman. Avril realizes that Frere is using Serozawa's desire for revenge, and wonders what Frere will do if he beats his father but has no one left standing beside him. Sir Edward decides that it's time to close in on Frere.
Jack scoffs at Tom's nominee for a new employee at the Mermaid yard. Frere speculates that something's wrong with David Lloyd's information. Mr. Parker threatens Leo. Sarah warns Ken that Sir Edward is using them to get at Relton. Anna faces a harsh fashion critic. A call from Orrin in America about Abby terrifies Polly. Gerald implores Frere to call a truce with Sir Edward as Frere's shares begin to plummet. Fearing his father's takeover of American subsidiaries, Frere must fly to New York and begs Avril to go with him. Ken and Sarah have a proposal for Richard, while Jan receives a surprise proposal her own. Two paper millionaires are born in Tarrant, and a familiar face returns. Tom breaks the news of a tragic accident.
Sir Edward and Jack are on tenterhooks awaiting word on Frere and Avril. Gerald reassures Abby that he will always be her father. Paul Sumner suggests that Emma tell Tom about their relationship. Jack and Sir Edward rush to Ireland after bodies are pulled from the ocean. Abby finds that her parents have changed in her absence. Sir Edward bristles when the doctor orders him away from Frere. Abby stuns Leo by revealing the reason she's staying with Sir Edward. Sir Edward attempts to mend the relationship with his son. Jan decides not to wear her ring until she makes a decision about the proposal. An intruder steals Anna's templates from the design house. Sir Edward counsels Abby about custody of Wiiliam. Sarah subtly blackmails Ken into staying away from Jan. Jack receives grim news regarding Avril's condition.
Avril's condition takes another turn. Mr. Parker attempts to negotiate a settlement with Leo. Frere makes a stunning announcement at a press conference for the plane crash. Sir Edward reveals his involvement with the Americas Cup and makes an offer to Tom. Polly and Abby grow closer. Leo vows to go ahead with the divorce despite Parker's threats. Tom dines with Jan who wants his opinion about her marriage proposal. When Jan's business problems continue to mount, Polly has a solution that annoys her. Ken and Leo take to the water for a test run. Sarah goes behind Ken's back to meet with Sir Edward. Frere makes a confession. Ken bristles when Sarah informs him of their new working relationship. Jan wonders who is interfering in her business, while the culprit plans to teach her a very hard lesson.
Charles is disturbed to learn that Avril has discharged herself from the clinic and even more worried about her state of mind when she arrives for work as if nothing has happened. Sir Edward enrages Jan when he formally announces their engagement without her permission. Because of the Mermaid's involvement with the America's Cup, security is stepped up at the yard. However Jack is not too pleased. Jan offers Tom her shares in the Mermaid to help save her from bankruptcy. Leo races for Relton and Abby does a photo shoot. Polly's business ambitions continue to grow.
Sir Edward searches for oil with a total disregard for the bird sanctuary. Meanwhile, Ken has his own entrepreneurial ideas. Tom and Emma continue with their America's Cup design. Jan and Polly discuss business matters and Jan is resolute that she does not want to sell. In order to prevent Abby's custody battle being compromised, Sir Edward interferes with her relationship with Leo. Sarah collaborates with Avril but Charles is not convinced of her motivations. Jack needs some persuading if he is to stay at the yard. As Avril and Charles become more distant, she suffers from flashbacks to just prior to the crash; she distinctly recalls a proposal of marriage.
Ken learns of Sarah's duplicity and tries his hand at blackmail. He is also devastated to learn of Sir Edward's real business motivations. There is tension between Gerald and Avril but a nonchalant Charles refuses to become involved. Jan is befriended by fashion executive John Soames but their business relationship does not run smoothly. Avril discusses her marriage proposal with her father and then informs Charles of her decision. Jack and Kate have a big win at the races while at the Mermaid Yard, Tom finds Sir Edward's increasingly controlling ways frustrating.
Sir Edward does some grovelling and provides Tom with some inside information about the America's Cup. Meanwhile, when Jan runs out of stock, Sir Edward lends her a hand. Ken and Sarah's business relationship becomes more acrimonious when there is a press leak. Charles and Avril debate Sarah's loyalty. Some of Anna's stolen designs turn up in an unexpected place. Jack is involved in a medical emergency.
It's a race against time to save Jack's life. Ken's dubious past means that he has to rely on Sarah to secure the Langcrest deal he's after. Jan is determined to find out who stole Anna's designs and Leo and Ken help her out. Charles involves Tom in his plans to create a new, international boat race. Avril and Charles doubt Gerald's business acumen. The Mermaid has a glut of horsepower engines. Sarah gives her resignation to an embittered Ken.
Leo pressurises Ken into allowing him to race for Leisure Cruise in the world championships, and Ken agrees but only with the condition that Parker supports him. Meanwhile, Sarah reveals some business secrets to Charles. Polly continues in her entrepreneurial business venture without Jan's say. Abby continues to be concerned about her custody battle but receives a boost when her photographs of Tarrant life are shown at her father's exhibition. Jack keeps his distance from the Mermaid Yard. Tom is not convinced by Charles' latest business proposal but Emma is more positive. Jan is livid at Sir Edward's continued interference in the relationship between Abby and Leo. The Orkadian goes missing.
Jan's concerns for Polly's plans to go into direct competition cause further disquiet. There are problems when Emma takes the Orkadian for a trial run without Jack's knowledge. Abby is eager for her photographic exhibition to be a critical success while Tom and Emma accept an appealing business proposition from Charles. Ken seeks revenge by telling tales about Sarah's discussions with Sir John Stevens and Polly is all too obliged to spread the news. Meanwhile, Sir Edward expresses an interest in Jan's personal life. Charles demands that Sarah brings hard evidence of fraud at Langcrest.
Ken is secretly pleased when Mike uncovers some secrets from Sir John Stevens' past. Gerald attempts to suppress the conflict between Charles and Avril over the Langcrest deal. Under the guise of impressing Robert Hudson, Sir Edward convinces Jan to pose as his future wife. Meanwhile, Charles gives Abbie support when she raises concerns that her grandfather is manipulating her. The Tarrant Treasure Hunt takes place, organised by Jack and Emma. Sarah continues to extort information from the unwitting Mike. Over a drink, Jan and Emma discuss their relationship with Tom. Sarah is caught red-handed by Ken.
Robert Hudson arrives in Tarrant to discuss custody of William. When Polly supports Robert in apportioning blame on Abby, Gerald is livid with her. Charles is worried about Sarah's shares in Leisurecruise and things come to a head when he has dinner with Avril. Later, when Charles demands that Sarah be dismissed, Avril threatens to resign. Jack and Tom have a fracas at the Mermaid Yard. Ken continues on his mission to expose Sir John Stevens in the press. An angry Jan melodramatically returns her gifts to Edward and accepts a lift from Ken.
Tom and Jack do some male bonding whilst out fishing. Polly is concerned to learn that Gerald has been cashing cheques from their account; they are virtually bankrupt. However, he will not reveal where the money has gone. Later, much to Polly's delight, they have reason to celebrate. Charles blames Avril for Tom's latest independent business venture. Things go from bad to worse when Avril blames Charles' conflict with his father for the destruction of their relationship. Then Charles demands Sarah's resignation without Avril's agreement. When he later attempts to make amends, Avril is anything but impressed. Gerald is instructed to sell Relton shares in order to obtain money to buy Maclean Leisure. However, Gerald is worried it will expose them to a potential take over bid. Abby returns home, putting the custody of William at risk. Jan tells Sir Edward that she cannot be bought, at any price.
Leo's racing ambition comes to a drastic halt while Ken celebrates a success. Sir Edward gives Tom a business offer he can't refuse. Charles is desperate to purchase a golf course from under his father's nose. There is a mystery buyer of Charles' recently released Relton Marine shares. Later when Charles attempts to reconcile with Avril, he is shocked to learn that she now has a stake; she also suggests he resign. Charles is further concerned that Sir John Stevens played a big part in Avril's dominance and that Sarah also holds a substantial share. Sir John gives Avril some sound business advice. Abby makes plans to visit the Hudsons in the states. Meanwhile, Sir Edward and Polly make plans to develop the business and a future for William. Jan sacks Polly from the boutique. Tom and Emma make a good impression with their business acumen and boat design. Gerald has a visit from the fraud squad and Ken's duplicity is revealed.
Leo begins to recover and Abby is there to help. Charles is concerned about being investigated by the fraud squad and Avril questions Gerald about what's going on. Meanwhile, in Polly's absence, Gerald and Abby share their concerns about the impending fraud trial. Jan wants to expand her business but doesn't want advice from Ken. Emma has an offer from Paul Dimitri and is aggravated by Tom's continued close relationship with Jan. Avril introduces Ken to an old friend of hers, Laura Wilding, who would be able to help him produce boat moulds for Leisurecruise; Ken is so impressed by her business that he wants to buy the company. Jack meets old flame Vanessa Andenberg and the spark is rekindled. Emma hands in her resignation. Avril is livid with Leo when he attempts to race again. Charles discovers that his efforts to avoid charges of fraud have not gone to plan.
Jack tries to convince Tom that breaking up with Emma is not such a terrible thing. Charles prepares his legal team in order to avoid a fraud prosecution. Ken asks Tom to design a boat for Leisurecruise. When Charles and Gerald are cleared of all charges, the fraud squad are unhappy with Ken for supplying inaccurate information. Jan meets James Brooke, her potential competitor. After some business talks they decide to join forces rather than work against each other. Vanessa and Ken discuss the possibility of going into partnership however her father is not too impressed with Ken. Avril and Charles have a confrontation about Relton shares: he claims he wants to protect the company from a take over bid. Later Charles begins to organise a vote of no confidence against Avril. Charles tells Avril he holds no qualms about destroying her in order to regain control of Relton. When Ken tries to seduce Laura, he finds himself left out in the cold.
Gerald is perturbed to discover the Fraud Squad is still trailing him. Jack finds Vanessa easy to talk to and he confides his daughter's problems. Jan and James forge ahead in their business venture Howard Brooke. Laura is keen to join forces with Ken, Tom is more reticent. With the fraud trial out of the way, Charles focuses all his attentions on removing Avril from Relton. He is also concerned that the Hudson's are keeping an eye on Abby. He is determined to find out who is responsible for implicating him in fraudulent dealings. Avril wants Leo to race for and he wants her support in building a new boat. Charles attempts to ruin Avril's reputation with Relton , he finds things are not easy. Abby travels with Leo to the Isle of White. A moment of passion is interrupted by Polly. Polly, who has just returned argue about William
Jack and Avril go with Laura to Jimmy's funeral. Polly attempts to convince Abby to go to the States however Abby has other ideas. In an effort to reconcile Abby and Orin, Polly organises for him to visit. When Orin arrives it is evident he has come on business as well as personal matters. James and Jan are at loggerheads. Ken and Laura officially go into partnership. Laura lunches with Avril and uses what she learns to her advantage: she is prepared to gain significantly from Charles and Avril's feud. Later, Charles pays Avril a visit and tells her she will have her work cut out preventing a vote of no confidence. Orin's political ambitions result in him telling Ken to report Eckhardt Sahnn to the Fraud squad.
Charles is concerned his father and the Hudson's might attempt a take over bid for Frere Holdings. Laura warns Ken to keep personal matters out of business. Meanwhile, he is suspicious when numerous Leisurecruise shares are purchased by a mystery buyer. Leo's jealousy reaches boiling point when Polly attempts to reconcile Abby and Orin. Charles suggests Tom is delaying designs for Relton because of his feelings for Avril. James is livid when Jan wants to use some of his old designs. Tom warns Laura against Charles and he is offended by her criticism of Avril. Over dinner with Vanessa, Jack confesses his concerns about Avril and Charles; he believes Charles still loves her and cannot understand why he is treating her so badly. Later, Jack tells Avril he feels guilty because he's attracted to Vanessa.
Jan and James disagree over designs and the direction of the firm. However, they later get close up and personal. Jack is annoyed with Vanessa when he learns about her secret business dealings. Leo is taken in for questioning by the police. Meanwhile Tom is suspicious when Charles manages to get hold of a copy of his father's plans for the America's Cup. When Abby reveals that she's pregnant, Gerald finally sees Polly for what she truly is.
Vanessa is given a new job but Tom is not convinced she's the right person for the job. Gerald learns to cope without Polly. Avril focuses her attention on preventing Charles' take over bid. Orin confesses he framed Leo. Charles is overjoyed at the idea of becoming a grandfather. Ken informs the fraud squad of Charles' dubious activities.
Charles is raided by the fraud squad and Ken tries to hide his guilt. Meanwhile, Kate is fully aware of his wrong doings and is determined to have him exposed. The order books are full at the Mermaid Yard and Tom and Jack have trouble completing work on time. Jan is busy making the Howard Brooke fashion show a success but James is preoccupied with Jan's previous relationship with Sir Edward. Later he tells Ken that Laura wants to buy his shares in Howard Brooke. Charles threatens to implicate Avril unless she stands by him.
Avril's business meeting in Malta does not go to plan when Sabio Fernandez delays his decision and she is requested to return to the UK to give evidence in the Charles Frere fraud case. Charles is determined that Avril should be made to look responsible. Meanwhile, Tom lends Avril a shoulder to cry on. Laura bribes James in order to get hold of his Howard Brooke shares. Kate's relationship with Admiral Redfern goes from strength to strength. James reveals all to Jan about his mysterious past and financial difficulties.
Jan is livid with Ken for obtaining Howard Brooke shares by using blackmail. She is determined to stand by James, whatever the consequences. Charles' trial begins and Jack is convinced Avril harbours feelings for Charles. Meanwhile, she is still experiencing difficulty closing the Fernandez deal. Kate is concerned about the impact the new marina development will have on the Mermaid Yard and Vanessa is surprised to learn about the scheme. Jack has difficulty dealing with memories of late his wife. Ken's testimony clearly implicates Charles and Gerald of fraud.
Charles and Gerald celebrate their innocent verdict and set their sights on revenge. Jack has trouble coming to terms with his feelings for Vanessa. Kate is determined to stop the marina development. Abby tells Charles that she is not going to hand William over to the Hudson's and that she's prepared to go to court to prevent it from happening. Ken and Laura are very happy with Leisurecruise's latest vessel and they court Sabio Fernandez for a business deal.
Charles wins a boat race while Gerald tries to prevent any further decline in the price of Frere Holdings shares. Kate organises a formal protest against the marina development. However, Jack continues to contemplate selling out to Charles and comes to a decision about his life. Abby joins in but is forced to go home after she feels the baby move. James plans to develop HowardBrooke following their success of the Malta fashion show. Leo is eager to race the new powerboat. Ken is shocked when James repays his debt. However, Ken informs the press of James' past and James tries desperate measures to escape the negative coverage. Jan arrives at James' hotel, only to see him being put into an ambulance.
Avril is concerned about a take over bid when she learns that Ken has sold Charles his shares. Following his overdose, James' life hangs in the balance. Later, he gets revenge on Ken. Charles formalises his plans for the marina development. Leo angers Avril when he challenges Ken to a powerboat race. Meanwhile, Avril is also livid with her father for contemplating the sale of the yard. She goes ahead with a meeting to announce a vote of no confidence in Charles. Abby is involved in a road accident and gives birth prematurely. Jack waits for Vanessa's reply to his marriage proposal. Charles is forced to award Avril with the trophy of the Charles Frere Cup when Leo wins the race.
Leo and Abby christen their son Thomas Leo in honour of Leo's father, who died three weeks previously. Jack, who is struggling to come to terms with Tom's death, needs some time on his own. Whilst the Howard family continues to mourn Tom, Charles relishes his new role as grandfather. Laura infuriates Ken and Jan learns that, following the departure of James Brooke, she is liable for the excessive debts he left. Charles takes an interest in buying the Mermaid but Avril is determined her father shouldn't sell, especially to her ex. Meanwhile, Ken and Avril's new Skua creation for Relton is eyed keenly by Laura. Charles sets his sights on taking control of Relton.
Ken and Avril's business relationship is in jeopardy when it emerges Laura has a controlling share of Leisurecruise. Charles, still adamant he will out do Avril, decides to manipulate Ken in order to gain ownership of the Mermaid, and Relton. Meanwhile, Ken is busy trying to encourage Jan to accept his offer of investment as she expands her business in Gibraltar. Jan considers an alternative business venture when she meets up with her daughter Lynne. Meanwhile, Charles and Laura plot Ken's financial destruction. Orin causes a stir when he arrives in Tarrant with some news for Abby. Leo wants Laura to build a boat designed by his late father. Jack decides not to tell Vanessa about his plan to crew one of his boats.
Sir Edward Frere returns and is prepared to support Jan's business proposition to expand into the perfume industry. Leo, Bill and Jack prepare for their journey on the Xanada, despite everyone's concerns. Vanessa is angry about Jack's foolish behaviour and Abby is annoyed with Leo and accuses him of not supporting her. Orin is employed at Leisurecruise by Laura. Avril continues to cut Ken out of her business in an effort to protect Relton. Charles is suspicious of his father's unexpected arrival but very interested in a opportunity put forward by Laura. However, his plans to build the marina face some set backs. Jan takes an instant dislike of Sir John Stevens' nephew Robert Hastings; unfortunately, if she is going to make a success of her perfume venture, she needs to keep him on side. Tragedy strikes the Xanada when one of the crew members falls overboard.
Orin re-organises Leisurecruise and discusses the possibility of a Relton takeover bid with Laura. The Xanadu returns with Lynne on board. Charles' suspicions are aroused when a new Frere Holdings-Leisurecruise alliance is suggested. However, he continues to struggle with his marina project. Ken blackmails Sir Edward to secure the financial support he needs to gain ownership of Leisurecruise. When Jan misses an important appointment with Robert Hastings, he questions her commitment to their planned joint venture. Avril is livid with Ken when it emerges he has sold his shares to Orin and has opened some of her private post. Vanessa wonders if Jack's marriage proposal is still open and Leo is jealous of Abby's meetings with Orin. Charles rejects a merger proposal from his father. At Highfield, Sir Edward announces his recent marriage to Polly and the fact he only has a few months to live due to a terminal illness.
Sir Edward's health declines and Jan learns that he has rejected all medical intervention. Avril is concerned that the Mermaid cannot fulfil its orders and is at loggerheads with Orin over the slow completion of the Leisurecruise commission; however, Laura is overjoyed at the delays in production. Jan is angry when Sir Edward implies she must regret not marrying him when she had the chance. Later, he makes his final will. Charles continues to reject his father's apologies but admits that he has enjoyed battling in business against him. There are celebrations marking Lynne's return and Jack and Vanessa's marriage plans. Ken and Sir Edward have a violent confrontation with fatal consequences. Jack is jealous when an attractive stranger reveals he knows Vanessa.
It's the day of Sir Edward's funeral but Polly doesn't attend. Neither does Charles who is unexpectedly shaken by his father's death. Vanessa reveals that the mysterious new arrival in Tarrant is her brother, David Relton. When Sir John retires from the bank many believe his nephew has had a hand in his departure. Orin offers Leo money in a bid to win back Abby. Lynne launches her range of cosmetics. David leads Jack astray and woos Laura. Orin and Laura do their best to prevent a Poelma representative seeing a demonstration boat from Relton. Laura is suspicious when she spies David meeting Avril. There are a few shocks when Sir Edward's will is read.
Charles assures the press that his father's death has not had a negative impact on Frere Holdings, but share prices continue to fall. Abby's turmoil continues following the reading of Sir Edward's will; she is uncertain about how to continue her relationship with Leo and still maintain contact with William. Relton asks Laura to build a cruiser for a friend but Orin is still concerned about his motives. Vanessa and Jack make plans for their wedding. Jan is concerned that Lynne and Robert appear to be getting close and is also worried about the impact Sir Edward's will has had on Leo and Abby's relationship. Orin is furious when he finds out that Laura has been dealing with Charles. In Malta, Relton manipulates Avril into signing an expensive contract, before she can check it out with her lawyers. Gerald threatens to resign when Charles announces he is determined to contest his father's will to protect Abby.
When Relton doesn't return from Malta, Laura, Ken and Avril realise the mistake they made doing business with him. Charles has trouble convincing Abby that it's in her best interest to allow him to contest his father's will. Meanwhile, Abby begins to enjoy spending her inheritance. Later, Charles approaches Leo and offers to act on his behalf to avoid losing Thomas. Whilst Abby breaks off her engagement to Leo, Jack and Vanessa tie the knot. Robert uses knowledge of his uncle's fraud to manipulate Charles into giving him a job.
Leo and Abby go their separate ways. Ken is overjoyed to learn that Relton has duped both Laura and Avril. Jan and Charles have a heated row about his involvement with Leo and Abby. Charles also finds himself at odds with Gerald. Laura wants compensation for her losses from Avril. Gerald agrees to leave Charles to work for Relton Marine, and Avril. Following the theft of some documents, Kate is arrested for her involvement in opposing Charles' marina development. Jack and Vanessa's honeymoon in Malta is hampered by her brother's fraudulent activities. Pierre reveals to Gerald and Avril that Charles is orchestrating a takeover bid for the Poelma Corporation. Lynne and Charles become close again when they have dinner.
Vanessa apologises to Avril for her brother's behaviour. When news of the fraud hits the press, Avril is implicated; it seems Charles may be behind the leak. Avril is convinced it is to blacken her name and have her removed from the Relton board. Admiral Redfern is announced as the new bank chairman and he is happy to support Jan's business. Vanessa sells her shares in Relton to repay her brother's debts but it is feared that Charles may have purchased them, giving him the majority share. When it emerges Ken bought them, he looks to Charles to buy them off him, providing he can have a role in the Poelma Corporation should Charles' takeover bid be successful. Lynne and Charles become closer, so too do Jan and Robert. Jack is surprised to learn that he has a son. Ken has a shock for Avril, Charles, Laura and Gerald when the new chairman of the Poelma Corporation is revealed.
The Mermaid continues to struggle to complete its orders on time. Ken offers Pierre a role on the Poelma Corporation board while Avril speculates how Ken obtained the majority share. Robert begins to manage Charles' financial affairs. Jack reveals his potential paternity suit to Vanessa, only to learn that Bill too may also be Tony's father. The Frere Five Star Cup is a closely fought contest. Laura expresses an interest in some House of Howard shares. Meanwhile, Jan learns that Robert has family responsibilities. Pierre wants the Mermaid Yard to build a boat for the America's Cup, with Leo in charge of construction. Jack, feeling over looked, reacts badly and threatens to resign. Jan struggles with the finances of the House of Howard.
Ken blackmails Laura into selling her ever increasing number of shares in the House of Howard to him. In Bermuda, Gerald supports Orin in his confrontation with Charles over William. Jan requests Admiral Redfern's support in obtaining such much needed funding. Laura requests support from Avril in a move against Ken and his growing business interests. Abby is dismayed when William rejects her in favour of his grandfather. Ken continues his efforts to persuade Jan to accept his financial support. Meanwhile, Claude Dupont's mother arrives and claims a legal claim to the profits from Jan's perfume line. Charles and Robert Hudson meet face to face to discuss their families' affairs. Avril and Pierre become closer. Jack has his eye on an alternative boatyard. The Admiral confesses his love for Kate and Lynne reveals she is pregnant. It emerges that Brigitte Dupont is colluding with Laura.
Abby tells Charles that he has been usurped and admits she backed the move. Jack decides to leave the Mermaid; he wants Leo to take over. Lynne returns from Bermuda to help launch the new cosmetics range. Pierre reveals to Avril that he backed the move to oust Charles in an revenge; his father was once cheated by him. Later, they spend the night together and discuss plans for a Relton-Challon merger. Charles takes his change in status badly and continues to blame his father for his recent troubled business dealings. Eventually, he agrees to begin a new life with Lynne. Brigitte Dupont is paid and the claims made against Jan's perfume are dropped. Gerald is shocked and dismayed to learn that Abby has backed a proposal that will see him as the new Chairman of Frere Holdings. Lynne informs Jan she's having Charles' baby and Kate announces that she plans to marry the Admiral. Ken, as new Chairman of Leisurecruise, sacks Laura. Abby gets custody of Thomas.
If any drama serial embodied the ethos of the 80s, it was Howards' Way. Watched by 14 million viewers, it ran for six years. In this nostalgia-fest, stars Jan Harvey and Stephen Yardley discuss its success - and why, sensibly, it was decided not to call it The Boat Builders.