The old firm is back in business, Bill!” Gerald forces a reconciliation with Charles. Abby’s involvement in the local environmental group causes concern for Leo and Jack agrees to a controversial commission. 

Oh, happy day! France and Britain are joined in matrimony. Charles’ interests in the Mermaid ruffle feathers in the boardrooms of London and Abby confuses politics with desire. 

Abby is seduced by the icy blue eyes of sexy but dangerous fanatic Curtis Jaeger. Leo and Jan come to blows and Tom is left reeling by Avril’s cold and concrete business heart. 

Darling Jan proves she’s as wonderful a daughter as she is a mother and lover. Charles finally gains control of the boatyard, but is it just business he’s after? What future is there for the Mermaid when tragedy strikes the Lynnette? 

Charles and Abby come to a resolution. Claude’s designs dazzle the London Fashion Show, but hearts break and blood is spilt on the beaches and blouses of Tarrant.

The Mermaid is struggling to escape the negative publicity generated by the catamaran accident and desperately needs new contacts. Meanwhile Jan's ultra chic designs are in such great demand she decides to employ an extra pair of stylish hands.

The future of the Mermaid hangs in the balance with the coroner's verdict yet to be decided and to add insult to injury Charles plans to withdraw the Barracuda from the market. Tom and Avril's relationship comes to an end.

Polly and Gerald's relationship is suffering as her spending gets out of control. Is Charles trying to sabotage the Mermaid? With financial ruin on the horizon, Jack earns a much-needed commission and Leo's boat refurbishment business is a success.

The competition is on as the Summer Powerboat race , leads to tensions between Ken and Charles. Sir Edward , is approached by Jan with a business proposition and , he has one for her but of a personal nature. Ken , and Sarah are caught in a compromising position.

Jan's newly discovered talent Anna reveals she may be promised to someone and forced to quit the exciting world of fashion. Tom learns the outcome of the trial and can breathe a sigh of relief; meanwhile Leo's business has a new investor.