Sponsored by the Wivenhoe Yacht Owners Association, the film opens with sailing boats on the water at Wivenhoe, Essex, whilst the greater part of the film shows the East Coast Old Gaffers' Race, on the Blackwater from Maldon. On a quiet and misty day, people watch from the beach. Any boating craft with a gaff rig is eligible for the Old Gaffers' annual race, though many of the vessels taking part are smacks - lovingly restored fishing boats peculiar to this part of the coast.