World-wary journalist Frank Buchanan returns to Australia for a rest, but all hopes of a quiet life disappear when he forms an unlikely partnership with an opportunistic young taxi driver, Yannis Moustakas, and begins working for Laura, his new editor.

Frank is in the throes of buying furniture for his home when Yannis, who wants to start his own casino, suggests they have a night out on an illegal gambling boat. On the boat they meet Sylvia, a friend of Yannis' and a casino hostess. She tells Yannis there's more to the boat than meets the eye.