The Java Ridge is a traditional-style Indonesian boat fitted out for surfing tours. Skippered by Isi Natoli, her passengers are a mixed group of Australian surfers keen to track down the perfect wave. The Takalar is filled with fleeing refugees and it is having engine trouble. In Canberra, the Minister for Border Integrity, Cassius Calvert is facing a Federal election. He has just announced a hardline new policy which will stop maritime assistance to asylum-seeking vessels in distress. The storm closing in on the Takalar and the Java Ridge will mean catastrophe for them all.