From 1971 to 1980, millions followed the drama and spectacle of this lavishly-filmed television series following, the trials and triumphs, loves and betrayals, adventures and disasters of James, his family and others in the Onedin Line fleet and boardroom.

Series Two heralds the end of the American Civil War and new opportunities for the shipping trade, but James faces troubles in his business and personal life. As struggling seamen prepare to strike, Anne is torn between her principles and loyalty to her husband and Yellow Fever is putting the whole city in peril. Meanwhile Albert and Elizabeth's marriage has reached breaking point and the rivalry between James and Daniel Fogarty intensifies….