Newly promoted to be the youngest Captain in the Royal Navy, in 1804 Ramage is despatched to blockade the French in Martinique. The passage proves difficult; a slovenly crew under the command of a now incompetent drunk having to be overcome so as to realise the objective. Diamond Rock is fortified and a French convoy has to be dealt with as this gripping adventure proceeds, emulating the real life exploits of Commodore Samuel Hood RN.