Pete is feeling frustrated because the older penguins will not let him join their fishing trip. Determined to prove he is big enough for his own adventure, he waddles off to cast a line by himself. Exhausted from his efforts, Pete falls asleep on what he thinks is a floating island, only to discover he has taken a nap on the back of a friendly whale. The giant creature carries Pete far from his icy home, introducing him to a whole new world of interesting companions. Along the way, Pete meets a cheerful boy, a massive elephant seal, and a playful group of sea lions. By the time the whale brings him safely back to his own colony, Pete has collected wonderful memories and realized that friendship can be found anywhere.