Jesse Powers and Neal Fox always dreamed of cruising the coast of California and Mexico. They invested every thing in their sailboat, Dana, and set out on their dream voyage. They anchored in a deserted island harbor, San Miguel Island, to explore the island.

Also anchored there is a powerboat which they believe might be the one they heard mentioned at their last port stop as being stolen. They recognize many of the features described in these accounts and decide to inform the U.S.Coast Guard.

Tom Lerner and Hank Allen had operated an insurance scam in California, but when it seemed too risky to continue, they decided to steal a boat and escape to Mexico until things quieted down. Together with Tom's boyhood friend, Simon they hijacked a power boat, the Wind Runner, and set out for Mexico.

Simon who has a hair trigger temper, is wanted for the death of a an he killed in an argument. They anchor in the harbor at San Miguel Island. They become uneasy about the sailboat also anchored there; worried that it was suspicious of them, and set out in pursuit.

There are several attacks on Jesse and Neal, who enlist the aid of their fellow sailing community and of Mexican ex-diplomat, Senor Charro, to try to hunt the three fugitives and bring them to justice.

This is a tense adventure with the added enjoyment of the pleasures of sailing. The camaraderie of the sailing community is portrayed in its true spirit. The descriptions of sailing and of the technique of managing the sailboat are excellently portrayed with the joy of sailing manifested throughout the story.

The characters are well-drawn; the flawed friendships of the three fugitives; the developing understanding and bond between Jesse and Neal strengthened by their ordeal.

As a bonus there is a glossary of nautical terms for those readers unfamiliar with the world of sailing.