A young man who gives up college to help his family becomes involved in an around-the-world voyage aboard a giant dirigible. The narrative follows life and duties aboard the airship, explaining its control room and operations while tracing the protagonist’s shifting responsibilities and relationships with officers and crewmates. Episodes include a stowaway, hazardous weather, mechanical strain, and calls at distant ports that expose the travelers to unfamiliar costumes and customs. Adventure and technical detail combine with moments of youthful initiative and problem-solving as the voyage progresses toward its international destinations.