The Boatniks

Lieutenant Jordan answers a string of distress calls from civilian pleasure boats around Balboa Island, a routine assignment that underscores why he wants to transfer. He begins handing over his duties to Ensign Tom Garland, a polite but clumsy newcomer who will report to Commander Taylor. The transfer sets the stage for Garland’s arrival aboard the cutter Point Maley.

Tom Garland assumes command of the cutter Point Maley, with Commander Taylor watching over him. Garland's courteous manner hides a growing ineptitude as he mishandles minor problems on the crowded waterways. The crew begins to see the challenges of his leadership.

Garland's bungling becomes evident during routine patrols and interactions with impatient boaters. His mistakes frustrate the crew and threaten smooth operations on the water. The incidents raise questions about his readiness to lead the crew.

In their first encounter, Garland meets Kate Fairchild, manager of a local boat rental and sailing school. He accidentally dumps a can of paint on her head, the awkward moment underscoring their combustible chemistry. The incident marks the start of a complicated relationship.

A trio of jewel thieves is introduced: Harry Simmons, the ringleader posing as a yacht club commodore, and his associates Charlie and Max. Simmons issues orders as they plan to smuggle stolen jewels inside hollowed food. Their scheme unfolds against the harbor backdrop.

To execute their plan, they rent a boat from Kate, despite none of them knowing how to sail. The arrangement puts Kate unexpectedly in the criminals’ proximity and raises suspicion about their true intentions. The plan edges closer to collision with law enforcement.

A picnic hamper filled with jewel-laden food falls overboard, triggering a frantic, repeated attempt to recover it. The mishap exposes the thieves' nervousness and distracts everyone nearby. The incident heightens the tension on the water.

The thieves hire professional pearl diver Chiyoko Kuni, who appears not to speak English but quickly recovers the jewels. She then speaks in fluent English and demands a much larger fee, complicating the criminals’ scheme. The recovery operation becomes pivotal to the case.

Kate and Tom begin to suspect that the trio are the same three men police are seeking, a theory that gains traction as the divers’ and thieves’ patterns align. Commander Taylor remains skeptical, unsure if the sightings confirm guilt. The tension between suspicion and authority deepens.

Tom presents his reasoning and evidence to Taylor, convincing him to retrieve the jewels and pursue the arrest of the thieves. Taylor agrees to authorize a coordinated operation, recognizing the potential to resolve the case and prevent further crime. The plan moves from suspicion to official pursuit.

Under Taylor’s authorization, authorities coordinate a retrieval operation, leading to the arrest of the jewel thieves and the recovery of the stolen gems. The effort showcases teamwork between Kate, Tom, and the Coast Guard. The criminals’ plans unravel under pressure and precision.

The criminals are arrested and the jewels recovered, resolving the central conflict. Tom’s leadership is validated, and his budding romance with Kate begins to deepen as trust grows. The balance between duty and personal life comes into clearer focus for Garland and Kate.