The Battle of Boat is a new musical set in a seaside town on the English coast. The happiness of a group of children is short-lived as the First World War unfolds around them. Their attempt to join up is thwarted as they are each rejected for being too young, with one exception. William, the oldest of the group, is enlisted and is sent to fight in France. The tale is of the persistent attempts the children make to help their friend and their country, with weaving, powerful themes of rivalry, leadership and battle.