Peter, who lives with Asperger's syndrome, works as a junior income tax auditor. Eleanor is a retired librarian. Twice-divorced Walter teaches linguistics and philosophy at the university. Suzette is a fitness instructor. Playing bridge is what they have in common. The Bytowne Bridge Club sponsors a spring cruise from Ottawa to Gaspé. Peter, Eleanor, Walter and Suzette all have their own reasons for going. Peter buys tickets as a birthday gift for his mother. Eleanor invites a friend along for the ride. Walter has private plans for the trip, and Suzette's plans involve getting private with Walter. The group of friends meets on board for dinner the first night, but one seat remains empty. Walter has vanished. Suzette is annoyed and Eleanor is concerned. The group plays tourist by day and bridge by night as they float down river towards the Atlantic Ocean. They stop at the flea market, tour the historic Chateau Montebello, absorb culture in Montreal, play on the beach, relive history in Québec City and go whale watching in Gaspé. Meanwhile, on board the ship, there is a man overboard, a wedding, a birthday party, a murder-mystery evening, and a lot of bridge. Peter befriends Beth, another Aspie. Their mothers compare notes on the joys and difficulties of raising these special kids. Eleanor becomes friends with Belle. Suzette finds other men to chase. On the last night of the cruise, Walter's disappearance is explained. The next day, most of them fly back to Ottawa. Who is left behind, and why?
