In 20th century Shanghai, Hong Sanyuan arrives with his mother and close friend, Qi Lin, in search of a better life. There, he came under the guidance of ferry leader Yan Hua. Hong becomes entangled in the power struggles between two large conglomerates, and eventually also becomes involved in political affairs.

Great Expectations тривав 1 сезон. Нових епізодів не заплановано.