At the start of World War I, German imperial troops burn down a mission in Africa. The mission's reverend was so overtaken with disappointment that he passes away. Shortly after his well-educated, snooty sister Rose buries her brother, she must leave on the only available transport, the 'African Queen' steamboat. The boat is manned by the ill-mannered bachelor, Charlie. Together they embark on a long difficult journey, without any comfort. Rose grows...

The timeless tale of two mismatched strangers joining forces in a common cause, and finding love along the way. The story chronicles the burgeoning romance between river rat Charlie Allnut and missionary Rose Sayer, as they reluctantly join forces to torpedo a German gunboat in war torn East Africa.