Realizing that the time is right to act on their crazy idea of pulling their two daughters out of school for a year, shut down the house, and embark on a sailing sabbatical, Elli and her husband David, pitch the idea to their daughters. With just a few months planning time available, what follows is a mad rush to take sailing lessons, buy and equip a boat, devote countless hours to researching every aspect of their trip, and attempt to convince friends and relatives that they haven't completely lost their minds. Temporary home found for their beloved dog Chester, boat stuffed with provisions, charts, and safety gear, their trip is almost over before it even begins when a strong summer squall causes their 42' sailboat to drag through the anchorage on their journey's first stormy night.