Marseille, summer. Months have passed since the Aldébaran has been docked at the end of the sea wall where it can’t hinder port activity. The sailors have no entry permits, rights or money. They’re separated from their families, forgotten by all and sundry, squashed together on board. Abdul Aziz, their Lebanese captain, runs the ship. He’s respected by the crew, a man tough on himself and others. Diamantis, the Greek, is his second in command. A sailor by tradition and by choice.