When the boat sets sail on an eight-day trip from North Carolina to the Virgin Islands, she and Hunt Stewart, the charismatic captain, are strangers. Love has never been kind to Melissa and she resolves to remain only his shipmate and friend. Hunt is devoted to the boat and the sea and not inclined to compromise his lifestyle.
But through their time working together in the ship's close quarters and taking excursions to beautiful, pristine beaches, they begin to form a close bond and deep affection for each other. Melissa has a secret, though, that could tear them apart forever. She can only hope that the tropical trade winds bring good fortune and not more heartache.