Albert is a happy-go-lucky Philippine-born sailor who joins the United States Navy to see the world and enjoy wine, women, and song—hopefully in every port.

When he meets Sheila, an irresistible blonde, while docked in Boston, it is not long before she takes his virginity and his heart. Sheila, who loves reading and writing poetry, seems the perfect match for Albert, who has dreams of becoming a naval officer. She finds him warm and affectionate. He finds her beautiful and caring.

But shortly after they fall in love, Albert's ship departs on a six-month Mediterranean cruise. As their relationship is tested by the distance, temptations lure Albert, and soon he is unable to resist his attraction to attractive women. Meanwhile, as Sheila patiently waits for him back home, she begins to grow lonelier by the day and wonders whether he will forget her.

But after she receives a letter from her long-lost marine boyfriend and Albert returns home, Sheila is left with a decision that has the potential to change everything. In this tale of love gained and lost, a young sailor sets out on a journey of self-discovery, where he learns about himself, his dreams, and what he wants for his future.