In the mid-19th century, a sailor on the United States frigate Neversink earns the nickname White-Jacket due to his distinctive homemade garment. His journey aboard this ship through the Pacific and around Cape Horn is fraught with challenges and encounters reflecting life on the high seas. Through adversity, White-Jacket's experiences highlight themes of camaraderie, authority, and the human spirit.

The Creation of White-Jacket

As the Neversink sets sail from Callao, Peru, one sailor finds himself in need of a sturdy jacket to ward off the impending cold as the ship heads towards Cape Horn. Deprived of resources after years at sea, he fashions a jacket from canvas, padding it with an assortment of rags and old clothes for warmth. However, when he seeks to waterproof it with paint, he learns that none is available.

Gaining a Unusual Nickname

As the ship ventures further south, the crew begins to refer to the sailor as White-Jacket due to his conspicuous coat. Some seamen, steeped in superstition, view him with suspicion, likening him to a ghost because of the jacket’s pale hue. His peculiar appearance stirs unease among the crew, who are wary of his presence in the ship's rigging.

Social Challenges and New Alliances

White-Jacket's odd appearance quickly leads to social ostracism. His former messmates exclude him, finding his attire off-putting and his culinary skills lacking. Fortunately, he finds acceptance with a new group led by Jack Chase, a well-regarded petty officer who shares White-Jacket's appreciation for literature and earns the respect of both sailors and officers.

Shipboard Routines and Entertainment

Life aboard the Neversink is occupied with the duties of managing the ship as it follows the South American coast. White-Jacket and his fellow sailors engage in routine tasks such as handling sails and cleaning decks, all while bracing for colder weather. To break the monotony, Captain Claret allows a theatrical performance, though he ensures that the script receives prior approval. Despite the efforts of the crew, neither the captain nor the commodore attend the show.

Perils of the Sea

The voyage highlights the dangers inherent in seafaring life when a crew member falls overboard and is quickly forgotten, a grim reminder of life's fragility. The ship itself experiences calm after rounding Cape Horn, and to stave off the cold, the captain orders the crew to engage in vigorous activities, termed “skylarking.”

A Fortuitous Discovery

A sense of excitement grips the crew when they find barrels of exquisite port wine floating in the ocean. This discovery is particularly welcome since the steward, for unknown reasons, failed to replenish the ship's rum supply during their last port call. In the 1840s, the presence of spirits was a staple for sailors, making this find even more appreciated.

The Dark Side of Discipline

During the passage from Cape Horn to Rio de Janeiro, a series of floggings occur, showcasing the harsh disciplinary measures of the time. White-Jacket is deeply disturbed by the brutality of flogging, a punishment forced upon all to witness. He reflects on the inhumanity of such practices, noting that even ancient Rome prohibited flogging of its citizens, unlike the standards maintained by some naval authorities of his day.

Shore Leave at Rio de Janeiro

Upon reaching Rio de Janeiro, the men eagerly anticipate shore leave but face an initial refusal. It is Jack Chase who steps in to advocate for the crew, ultimately securing the commodore’s approval for leave, further solidifying his status as a hero among the sailors.

Imperial Visit and Reflections on Society

The crew is abuzz with preparations when the Emperor of Brazil is expected to visit the