The Good Ship Murder | Series 2 Preview (Channel 5)

Jack Grayling has traded his old life on the force for a new adventure on the high seas, where he dazzles audiences as a charming cruise ship singer. But when murders disturb the tranquility of the ship, Jack’s detective instincts kick back in.

Teaming up with Kate Woods—a sharp and intuitive ally who may just be more than a friend—they dive into the cases, navigating both clues and their undeniable chemistry. Standing by them is Jamil, the spirited ship steward and Jack’s loyal confidant, who isn't shy about nudging them together.

Set sail for a thrilling journey where love, mystery, and music intertwine on the open ocean. In the first episode, Jack is ready to take a bold step in his relationship with Kate, inviting her for a romantic evening at the opera during their stop in Rome.

But the unexpected arrival of Jack’s estranged 18-year-old daughter Mia throws his plans into chaos. Mia is on a mission: with her parents’ divorce looming, she’s determined to reunite them at any cost, even if it means sabotaging Jack and Kate’s blossoming connection.

As Jack juggles reconnecting with Mia and investigating the murder of an opera troupe member, the tension between him and Kate reaches a boiling point. Mia’s meddling sows seeds of doubt in Kate’s mind.

The situation spirals out of control when Mia runs away with a suspect from the murder investigation, leaving Jack to confront his daughter in a heart-wrenching showdown.

In the second episode, Jack and Kate are still reeling from their fallout in Rome, each trying to suppress their growing feelings. Adding fuel to the fire, Piers steps into his new role as Staff Captain with calculated charm, hoping to rekindle his relationship with Kate. But when Jack recognises a familiar face — a notorious ex-con named Mickey Eldergill — things take a sinister turn.

Rumours swirl about stolen bullion tied to Mickey’s past, and Jack warns Kate to keep her distance. But her detective instincts pull her back into the fray, especially when one of Mickey’s henchmen is found murdered during a tour excursion.

Meanwhile, Piers plays his own game, needling Jack with sly remarks about Kate and hinting that there’s only room for one of them on board. As tensions escalate, Piers’s rivalry with Jack takes a turn, setting the stage for a battle of wills that threatens both men’s futures.

The Good Ship Murder returns w/c 6th January at 9pm on Channel 5.