Soon after Cruz, Sailor, Emmett, and Lani return for their second year at Explorer Academy, their sense of calm is shattered when Sailor's older sister goes missing. Amidst incredible expeditions to far-flung destinations and competitive classes, Sailor bravely steps into the lead to discover how her sister's sudden disappearance may be linked to an illegal and deadly animal-trafficking ring.

Despite winning the prestigious North Star Award and being surrounded by close friends and teachers who she has traveled the world with, Sailor's never felt less sure of herself. As the team faces puzzling obstacles and follows complex clues aboard the new ship, Vela, Sailor grapples with a secret of her own. Will she risk everything and choose to embrace her destiny?