best sailboat racing movies

20 Best Sailing Movies of all Time

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

If you have been looking forward to curling up on the couch, grabbing a bowl of popcorn, and watching some captivating movies, this can be a good time. A good sailing movie can be perfect given that you'll hear a few lines that you're already familiar with when on the dock or setting sail.

This can be a perfect time to binge-watch some of the best sailing movies.

So in no particular order, we'll highlight 20 of the best sailing movies of all time. From the brutal and dramatic tales of man vs. sea to inspirational explorations and expeditions, we've covered it all. Keep reading and you'll be inspired while waiting to get off dry land when it's safe to do so.

Table of contents

All is Lost (2013)

For lone sailors, All is Lost is probably the best movie to give you a glimpse of what might go wrong for you if you decide to sail the big blue ocean alone. With a near-mute performance as an old man who loves sailing alone, Robert Redford puts in an almost quasi-silent performance by portraying the ordeal of what a lone sailor can undergo when the sea turns on you.

Directed by JC Chandor, there's only one person on the screen throughout the film. He's all alone in the vast sea with his damaged boat. He has to become tough, resourceful, and calm even when things turn against him. Single-character movies are a rarity even today but this is a great survival film that perfectly depicts what could happen even to the hardest lone sailors out there.

Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)

Directed by the talented Peter Weir, this critically-acclaimed movie was nominated for 10 Oscars and won for best cinematography and sound editing. Depicting the return of the high-seas adventure, this movie is skillfully and meticulously adapted from the historical novel by Patrick O'Brian set during the Napoleonic Wars and starring Russell Crowe.

Crowe plays an arrogant captain who pushes his ship crew to the limits while trying to capture a French warship. This movie offers action-packed battle scenes that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This movie gives you an insight of what sailors undergo in their struggles to make it through the high-seas alive.

Captain Ron (1992)

With little sailing experience but with an inherited yacht moored on an offshore island Martin Short hires charismatic Captain Ron to take them back to Florida. The voyage isn't as easy as they expected as they have to face pirates, breakdowns, and other obstacles. They all get more than what they bargained for.

Portrayed by Kurt Russell, Captain Ron depicts the misadventures of a nominal sailing character that is hired by an upper-middle-class father to guide a yacht through the Caribbean. From the marine accidents, pirates, guerilla carnivals to malfunctioning equipment, and Russell's croaked absurdities, this movie is just full of double humor and worthy performance. 

Wind (1992)

As one of the biggest races in competitive sailing, America's Cup is often associated with rich people competing in weird-looking boats. But this movie changes this as it takes viewers through the eyes of tanned and rugged Will Parker as played by Matthew Modine. He's hired by a self-made millionaire (Cliff Robertson) to lead his crew in the competition.

Together with his girlfriend Kate who is an equally skilled sailor, Parker intends to win America's Cup but Kate is thrown off the crew leaving Parker angry. When the crew loses America's Cup to the Australians, Parker decides to form his own syndicate to win back the cup. 

White Squall (1996)

This movie follows a young man's adventure movie that follows a group of high school students who boards the brigantine ship called Albatross for their senior year at sea. They sail to the tip of South America and back. They get to accept responsibility, learn how to be sailors, and grow up.

The skipper of the ship, Christopher Sheldon together with the 13 teenage boys set sail for an eight-month voyage. The boys soon discover Sheldon's psyche gradations, rattling tension, and freak storms that sink the ship. As a sailor, you'll be disturbed by the fact that four students and two crew members drown, leaving skipper Sheldon facing a fierce tribunal, tortured conscience, and grieving parents and students.

Mutiny on the Bounty (1962)

As one of the greatest epic movies of the 1960s, English Captain Bligh is on a sea voyage to transport breadfruit from England to Jamaica. He is so abusive that he gets on the nerves of his crew members, especially 1st Lieutenant, Fletcher Christian.

Tension eases when they reach Jamaica and the crew indulges in the island's lifestyle but the captain claps some members of his crew in irons as they try to desert. Further abuses lead Fletcher to inspire a mutiny against the Captain. Fletcher and his men set the Captain and his loyal members afloat in a rowboat. This movie offers a realistic depiction of a larger-than-life character that most sailors are known for. 

Dead Calm (1989)

Starring Billy Zane, Nicole Kidman, Sam Neil, and a gorgeous 60 ft. ketch, Dead Calm revolves around a mass-murderer who kidnaps and seduces a young beautiful woman after leaving a husband to die on a vessel whose crew he has just murdered.

This movie was filmed in the Whitsundays Islands of Australia, which is one of the best sailing destinations in the world. Bringing forth an epic combination of deadly sailing conditions , complete isolation from the rest of the world, and a skillful villain aboard the vessel, this movie is thrilling and will leave you looking behind your back whenever you're out there on the sea.

The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004)

This adventure-comedy follows the high journeys of Steve Zissou, a character adaptation of French oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau. It follows his ocean expedition when tracking the ‘jaguar shark' that apparently ate his partner, Esteban.

Esteban had been working with Zissou on a documentary about mysterious circumstances by a shark. This is a sharp film with lots of fun and adventure on the sea.

Kon-Tiki (2012)

Legendary Norwegian explorer and ethnographer Thor Heyerdahl believes that the South Sea Islands were originally colonized by South Americans. Thor, who fears water and doesn't know how to swim, partakes on a voyage in 1947 to prove his belief. Together with five crew members, set sail from Peru on a balsa-wood ancient raft.

Even though their only modern equipment is a radio, they have to navigate through the ocean while relying on stars and ocean currents and they achieve the impossible after exhausting three months at the sea. This is a very spirited adventure that depicts what's possible when we believe in our dreams. 

Maidentrip (2013)

A 14-year-old sailor by the name Laura Dekker sets sail on a two-year voyage in pursuit of her dream to become the world's youngest sailor. Laura sets out from Holland and sails throughout the world. Apart from the occasional foul language that Laura uses now and then on the documentary, this is an excellent film that shows what one can achieve when he/she lives her dream and works hard towards achieving it.

The documentary, however, doesn't suggest that Laura is alarmingly young to sail across the unforgiving Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Instead, she's depicted as an independent outsider who is looking for paradise in a never-ending sea. 

Adrift (2018)

In most cases, sailors seem to never anticipate that they may sail directly into a catastrophic hurricane and this is exactly what Richard Sharp and Tami Oldham do when they sail directly in one of the worst hurricanes ever recorded in history.

Tami awakes in the aftermath of the hurricane to find their boat in ruins and Richard is badly injured. And because they do not have any hope that they would ever get help or get rescued, Tami is left with two options: sit there and perish or find strength and determination to save herself as well as the only man she's ever loved.

Turning Tide (En Solitaire) (2013)

In this daring tale, this movie portrays how a fearless sailor known as Yann Kermadec finds a lot of obstacles in his biggest race as a two-hander named Turning Tide falls flat. In a nail-biting tension, the story begins when Kermadec replaces the main skipper in the Vendee Globe on short notice.

After some smooth sailing, things go eerily wrong for the sailor as his ship is damaged and he's forced to anchor off the Canary Islands to repair it. When he gets back on his journey, he soon discovers that a Mauritanian teenage boy has sneaked inside the boat and he has no option but to sail with him at least until they cross the Atlantic Ocean.

The Old Man and the Sea (1958)

An old Cuban angler known as Spencer Tracy is so unlucky that he hasn't caught any fish in 84 days. And despite the commitment of a young boy to bring him food, the angler fears that he's forever lucky but catches a small fish on his 85th day, so he decides to keep fishing.

When one of his many fishing lines hooks a large marlin, he decides not to go back to the shore until he reels it in. For almost two days and nights, he has no choice but to sit there and do everything he can to redeem himself from what seems like a perpetual failure.

Morning Light (2008)

By entering the TRANSPAC, which is one of the world's best open-ocean competitions, 15 young men and women prepare for a sailing adventure of their lives. With world-class teachers, these sailors begin intense training in Hawaii but only reach a climax in an elimination process that comes in the form of who-stays-and-who-goes process.

This documentary follows these sailors for six months as they embark on a 2,300-mile sailing ordeal, which starts in Los Angeles and ends in Honolulu.

The Perfect Storm (2000)

Created by Wolfgang Petersen, The Perfect Storm is a blockbuster that's big on visuals and depicts an action-packed escapade on the water as Captain Billy Tyne and his crew set on a fishing expedition aboard a ship known as Andrea Gail.

They're soon caught up in a catastrophic destructive storm when they decide to risk the storm and have to deal with a very powerful hurricane. At the height of their fishing expedition, their ice machine breaks down and the only way to ensure that their catch doesn't go stale is by hurrying back to the shore to sell their catch. This is exactly why they decide to risk their lives and it doesn't turn out as they expected.

Captain Phillips (2013)

When Captain Richard Phillips takes command of an unarmed container ship known as MV Maersk Alabama from the port of Salalah in Oman, they anticipate that they'll be attacked by Somali Pirates on their way to Mombasa, Kenya.

They attack the ship and Captain Phillips has to use his wits and diplomacy to negotiate with the pirates and save his crew. 

Maiden (2018)

As the saying goes; what a man can do a woman can do even better. This is exactly what's depicted by this sailing movie that follows the life of Tracy Edwards as she leads the first all-female crew when competing in the Whitbread Round the World Race.

Covering 33,000 miles and lasting for nine months, this is a truly grueling race that depicts the corrosive sexism that still exists in the sailing world as well as the ocean terrors that sailors have to deal with during voyages or competitions. 

Chasing Bubbles (2016)

This is a captivating documentary that follows the journey of Alex Rust who is a free spirit who gives the normal life to sail around the world. Alex is brought up as a farm boy but becomes a stock trader in Indiana. At the age of 25, he decides to abandon his life in Chicago, buys a modest sailboat known as Bubbles and embarks on a very unique free-spirited voyage. It takes him three years to sail around the world and to quench his insatiable curiosity while meeting great people and fulfilling his lifelong dream of becoming a free soul.

This is a breathtaking travelogue that depicts the sailing life of a truly absorbing character.

180° South (2010)

Directed by Chris Malloy, this is a sailing documentary that covers the journey of Jeff Johnson as he travels from Ventura, California to Patagonia in Chile. He does this to retrace the same trip covered by Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkins in 1968.

While the two initial explorers made the journey on the land, Johnson travels by sea using a small boat.

Deep Water (2006)

This movie follows the true-life story of Donald Crowhurst, an inexperienced British sailor who enters the Golden Globe, which is the first nonstop boat race in the world. Donald puts up his home as collateral to gain financial backing to compete in the race but soon finds himself on the wrong end of things as he enters the race under-prepared.

Related Articles

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

by this author

Entertainment

Most Recent

What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean?

October 3, 2023

The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings

September 26, 2023

Important Legal Info

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

Similar Posts

How To Choose The Right Sailing Instructor

August 16, 2023

Cost To Sail Around The World

May 16, 2023

Small Sailboat Sizes: A Complete Guide

October 30, 2022

Popular Posts

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

December 28, 2023

Can a Novice Sail Around the World?

Elizabeth O'Malley

4 Best Electric Outboard Motors

How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England?

10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

December 20, 2023

7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat

Get the best sailing content.

Top Rated Posts

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. (866) 342-SAIL

© 2024 Life of Sailing Email: [email protected] Address: 11816 Inwood Rd #3024 Dallas, TX 75244 Disclaimer Privacy Policy

Atlas & Boots

The UK's most popular outdoor travel blog

25 sailing movies for when you’re knot shore what to watch

We share some of our favourite best sailing movies, from Hollywood blockbusters and indie films to illuminating documentaries

I still hang on to the rather fanciful notion of sailing in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race . Until I pluck up the courage (and the funds), I’ve been busying myself with more realistic nautical escapades.

From  tall ship sailing off the west coast of Scotland  to  sailing the Whitsunday Islands  in Australia , more and more of our travels have taken place on the water.

However, until I make the leap from weekend warrior to blue water sailor, I’ll have to make do with films, books and daydreams.

With that in mind, I’ve put together a list of the best sailing movies I’ve seen. What follows is a broad mix of modern and classic, indie and feature, drama and documentary film. Whatever their style, these flicks are thoroughly wet and wonderful.

And, I’m sorry about the pun, but you know, ship happens.

best sailing movies

Listed in no particular order, these nautical movies include terrifying ordeals of tragedy, inconceivable stories of survival, turbulent tales of adventure and wild journeys of discovery – perfect for a night in on a dry and comfy sofa.

1. Kon-Tiki (1950) Let’s start with one of the best sailing movies ever made. In 1947, Heyerdahl and five others sailed from Peru on a balsa wood raft. This is the classic Academy Award winning documentary of their astonishing journey across 4,300 miles of the Pacific Ocean.

Watch on Amazon Rotten Tomatoes IMDB

2. Red Dot on the Ocean (2014) Once labelled a ‘youth-at-risk’, 30-year old Matt Rutherford risked it all in an attempt to become the first person to sail solo non-stop around North and South America. Red Dot on the Ocean is the story of Matt’s death-defying voyage and the childhood odyssey that shaped him.

3. The Dove (1974) Produced by Gregory Peck, this coming-of-age adventure is based on the true story of Robin Lee Graham . At 16, he set sail in a 23ft sloop determined to be the youngest person to sail around the world.

4. Wind (1992) In over 140 years of competition, the US has lost the America’s Cup just once. This is a fictional story of the American challengers intent on winning back sailing’s top prize. A tale of money, power, love and ambition follows… oh, and some sailing.

5. Morning Light (2008) A riveting true-life adventure aboard the high-tech sloop Morning Light. Fifteen rookie sailors have one goal in mind: to be part of her crew, racing in one of the most revered sailing competitions in the world, the Transpac Yacht Race .

6. Between Home – Odyssey of an Unusual Sea Bandit (2012) An independent filmmaker’s account of his solo voyage from the UK to Australia, negotiating the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans en route. A trip that eventually takes over two years to complete.

Watch on Amazon IMDB

7. Styx (2019) When a lone yachtswoman comes across a sinking ship of refugees, she is torn away from her idyllic trip and tasked with a momentous decision. Should she act when authorities tell her to sail away?

8. Captain Ron (1992) After inheriting a yacht, a Chicago businessman enlists long-haired, one-eyed low-life Captain Ron to pilot the yacht from the Caribbean to Miami. During the voyage, the sailor frequently loses his way while becoming a hit with the businessman’s family. Goofy comedy starring Kurt Russell and Martin Short widely recognised as one of the funniest sailing movies ever made.

9. Maidentrip (2013) This riveting documentary chronicles the life and adventures of 14-year-old Laura Dekker who set out on a two-year voyage in pursuit of her dream to be the youngest person ever to sail solo around the world.

10. Kon-Tiki (2012) A well-crafted retelling of the epic original and one of the best sailing movies ever made. This dramatised version is a throwback to old-school adventure filmmaking that’s exciting and entertaining in spite of its by-the-book plotting.

“But you can’t navigate a raft,” he added. “It goes sideways and backwards and round as the wind takes it.” – Thor Heyerdahl, Kon-Tiki

11. Abandoned (2015) Four men set sail on the trimaran yacht Rose Noelle . It capsizes in a storm, trapping the crew in a space the size of a double bed. After 119 days adrift, the yacht washes ashore. The crew’s story is extraordinary, but doubt is cast on their claims and they face hostility from the media and authorities.

12. Adrift (2019) There are far better films on this list, but Adrift is just about worth a watch. Based on true events, a young couple embark on an adventure of a lifetime that brings them face to face with one of the worst hurricanes in recorded history.

13. The Perfect Storm (2000) A skipper insists that his crew go out on a final fishing trip before winter sets in. Unknown to them, a brutal storm is on its way. While the special effects are excellent for the time, the film falls a little  short on characterisation.

14. Sea Gypsies: The Far Side of the World (2016) The vessel is Infinity, a 120ft hand-built sailboat, crewed by a band of miscreants. The journey, an 8,000-mile Pacific crossing from New Zealand to Patagonia with a stop in Antarctica .

15. Turning Tide / En Solitaire (2013) Franck Drevil is a star skipper, having won the latest Vendée Globe , the most prestigious round-the-world single-handed yacht race. However, with this year’s race approaching, a sudden accident forces Franck to withdraw.

16. Knife in the Water (1962) When a young hitchhiker joins a couple on a weekend yacht trip, psychological warfare breaks out as the two men compete for the woman’s attention. A storm forces the small crew below deck and tension builds to a violent climax.

17. Dead Calm (1989) This tense thriller tells the story of an Australian couple (Nicole Kidman and Sam Neill) whose yacht cruise is violently interrupted by the mysterious lone survivor (Billy Zane) of a ship whose crew has perished.

18. The Riddle of the Sands (1979) A classic British swashbuckling yarn based on the early English spy novel of the same name. In 1901, two British yachtsmen visit Germany’s Frisian Islands and accidentally discover a German plot to invade England.

19. Maiden (2019) The story of Tracy Edwards, a 24-year-old cook on charter boats, who became the skipper of the first-ever all-female crew to enter the Whitbread Round the World Race in 1989.

20. White Squall (1996) Based on a true incident from 1960, White Squall is the story of the tragic sinking of the Albatross , a prep school educational two-masted schooner, during a Caribbean storm. Starring Jeff Bridges.

21. The Mercy (2017) Starring Colin Firth and Rachel Weisz, this is certainly no heroic tale. Instead, it’s the dramatisation of the bizarre story of amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst and his attempt to pull off one of the greatest hoaxes of our time: pretending to be the first to sail singlehandedly around the world!

22. Deep Water (2006) Following on from the above, Deep Water is a British documentary about the remarkable story of the first Golden Globe round the world yacht race , focusing on the psychological toll it took on its competitors – particularly one Donald Crowhurst.

23. Captains Courageous (1937) A spoiled brat who falls overboard from a steamship gets picked up by a fishing boat, where he’s made to earn his keep by joining the crew in their work. Based on the 1897 novel by Rudyard Kipling.

24. Open Water 2: Adrift (2006) A silly premise, but entertaining nonetheless. Six friends jump off a yacht without lowering the ladder first. With no way to climb aboard, it’s only a matter of time before bickering turns to terror.

25. Master and Commander – The Far Side of the World (2003) During the Napoleonic Wars, a brash British captain (Russell Crowe) pushes his ship and crew to their limits in pursuit of a formidable French war vessel.

“Do you not know that in the service one must always choose the lesser of two weevils?” – Capt. Jack Aubrey, Master and Commander

Readers’ suggestions

Here’s what our readers have added to the list of the best sailing movies.

• Masquerade (1988)
• Violets are Blue (1986)
• Kill Cruise (1992)
• Message in a Bottle (1999)
• High wind in Jamaica (1965)
• Caddyshack (1980)
• O Mundo em Duas Voltas (The World in Two Round Trips) (2007)
• One Crazy Summer (1986)
• Coyote: The Mike Plant Story (2018)
• The Weekend Sailor (2017)
• Harpoon (2019)
• Waterworld (1995)
• Around Cape Horn (1929)
• Mutiny on the Bounty (1935)
• Mutiny on the Bounty (1962)
• The Bounty (1984)
• All Is Lost (2013)

Enjoyed this post? pin it for later…

Lead image:  IM_photo/Shutterstock

You might also like:.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Movie Nights at Home

- Snacks & Ideas for Families, Friends & Couples

The 18 Best Sailing Movies to Watch on Netflix & Amazon

Watching one of these best sailing movies, you can sail into the ocean from the comfort of your couch.

Watching movies is a great way to take a trip without ever leaving the comfort of your own home. So, if you’re longing to take a voyage on the sea, a sailing movie is a great option!

Our favorite sailing movies include a great story and amazing views! All of the films on our list are available on Amazon Prime, Hulu, or Netflix at this time. So you can watch a great film about setting sail without ever leaving your house!

Most of these options also lend them selves to be a great outdoor movie night or pool party movie choice !

The 18 Best Sailing Movies

From action-packed thrillers set on a boat to inspiring documentaries about real-life sailors, you’re going to love each of the sailing movies in this comprehensive list.

Rated PG-13

A young couple sets sail on an adventure of a lifetime across the open sea together. But as they’re sailing across the ocean, one of the most catastrophic hurricanes in history capsizes their boat, leaving them to fight for their lives in the ocean, in this sailing thriller based on a true story.

2. Life of Pi

After surviving a shipwreck, the young son of a zookeeper is trapped on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger in this Oscar winning sailing movie directed by Ang Lee.

Try Hulu Tonight!

3. deep water (2006).

This sailing documentary tells the true story of the first solo, non-stop boat race around the world. As the film progresses, the filmmakers work to uncover the toll the grueling sea trip took on the race’s participants. The documetary features Simon and Clare Crowhurst.

4. Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World

In this historical drama, Russell Crowe plays a 19th century British ship captain who struggles as he prepares rag-tag team of crew members to attack a French ship.

5. Captain Ron

After a man finds out he’s inherited a yacht, he takes his family on a trip to the Caribbean to bring the ship home in this sailing comedy. When they arrive, the family hires a shady captain to help repair the ship and sail them back to Miami, leading to plenty of trouble on the trip home.

Kurt Russell and Martin Short star in this sailing film.

A group of sailors come together to reclaim the America’s Cup for the American team after a defeat the year before in this action-packed sailing movie starring Matthew Modine and Jennifer Grey.

7. White Squall

An educational sailing trip turns into a larger life lesson for a group of prep school students when their boat gets caught in a white squall storm in this Ridley Scott sailing movie classic featuring Jeff Bridges and John Savage.

8. Dead Calm

When a seasoned sailor and his wife, played by Nicole Kidman, take their yacht out on a long vacation trip across the ocean, they come upon a sinking boat in the middle of a calm sea. After rescuing the distressed sailor, the couple uncovers a horrifying sight and works to uncover the mystery behind the capsized vessel.

9. Kon Tiki

This Academy Award winning classic sailing documentary tells the story of a group of sailors who took a 4,300 nautical mile trip across the Pacific ocean on a raft. 

10. Maidentrip

Follow 14-year-old Laura Dekker as she achieves her dream of becoming the youngest person to set sail around the world alone in this riveting sailing documentary.

11. The Old Man and the Sea

Based on the classic novel by Ernest Hemingway, this sailing movie follows Santiago on a fishing trip that ends with the biggest catch of his life. But when sharks attack his catch, he must fight to keep his fish and save himself.

12. Morning Light

Watch as 15 young sailors compete to join the crew of the Morning Light, a sleek racing boat bound for the Transpac LA to Hawaii open ocean race in this Disney sailing documentary.

13. The Perfect Storm

To help tide his crew over for the winter, a fishing boat captain insists the group go out for one more fishing trip before the cold weather arrives. But as the crew sets sail, a storm begins to brew directly in their boat’s path in this sailing movie starring George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg.

14. Red Dot on the Ocean

Hoping to become the first person to sail around North and South America alone, Matt Rutherford goes on a death-defying ocean journey in this popular sailing documentary.

15. The Mercy

Leaving behind a loving wife (Rachel Weisz), an amateur sailor named Donald Crowhurst (played by Colin Firth) competes in the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race around the world. This movie has some of the prettiest sailing scenes and is based on a true story.

An overworked doctor takes her dream trip sailing alone across the Atlantic. But when she comes across a boat filled with refugees, she jumps in to organize the group and get them to safety.

17. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou

Famous Steve Zissou sets sail with this crew to find a (possibly nonexistent) Jaguar Shark. This quirky comedy stars Bill Murrary, Owen Wilson, and Cate Blanchett.

18. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl

Johnny Depp plays Captain Jack Sparrow in this popular Disney franchise about the days of pirates and treasure hunts.

You can also save this picture to have the list of best sailing movies easily on your phone!

Whether you’re an experienced sailor or you get sea sick at the sight of water, you can enjoy a vicarious trip across the ocean with the help of a good movie. And these amazing sailing movies won’t disappoint!

If you loved this list of best sailing movies, you may also like:

• 25 Comedy Travel Movies for Family Movie Night
• 17 Best Movies About Greece to Watch Tonight

Shop Our Shop

Latest Blog Posts

15 Best Sailing Movies You Can’t Miss

A true sailing enthusiast suffers when forced to stay at home… So here we are to help you, presenting our selection of the best sailing movies that a sailor absolutely cannot miss. We discussed, because the world of cinema and TV (just think of Netflix) give us an almost infinite catalogue. We finally succeeded and we are happy to present you our favorite sailing movies. Which is your favorite?

1. 180° SOUTH (2010)

“180° South” is a 2010 adventure documentary film directed by Chris Malloy. The film follows the journey of Jeff Johnson as he retraces the steps of his heroes Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkins to Patagonia, Chile. Along the way, Johnson encounters a variety of challenges, including navigating rugged terrain and dealing with extreme weather conditions. The film also explores themes of environmental conservation and the importance of protecting natural resources. It features stunning cinematography and is narrated by actor/musician/environmentalist Jack Johnson.

2. All is lost (2013)

“All Is Lost” is a 2013 survival drama film directed by J.C. Chandor. The film stars Robert Redford as an unnamed man who is stranded at sea after his sailboat is damaged by a shipping container. The man must use all of his survival skills and resourcefulness to stay alive in the face of increasingly dire circumstances. The film is notable for its minimalist approach, with no dialogue and minimal music, and Redford’s performance as the only actor on screen. It was praised for its technical achievements and the acting of Redford.

3. Captain Ron (1992)

“Captain Ron” is a 1992 comedy film directed by Thom Eberhardt and starring Kurt Russell as the titular character, a slovenly, irreverent sailor who is hired to help a family sail their yacht from the Caribbean to Miami. Along the way, they encounter a variety of mishaps and adventures, including pirates and a hurricane. The film also stars Martin Short as the head of the family, Mary Kay Place as his wife, and Benjamin Salisbury and Meadow Sisto as their children. “Captain Ron” is known for its silly and irreverent humor and the strong performances of its cast. We have to be honest: Captain Ron is our favourite between the sailing movies of this list!

We discussed, because the world of cinema and TV (just think of Netflix) give us an almost infinite catalog of sailing films

4. Chasing Bubbles (2016)

“Chasing Bubbles” is a documentary about the journey and spirit of Alex Rust , a farm boy turned day trader from Indiana who, at 25, abandoned his life in Chicago, bought a modest sailboat (called Bubbles) and set out to sail around the world.

5. Dead calm (1989)

Dead Calm is a 1989 Australian psychological thriller film directed by Phillip Noyce and starring Sam Neill, Nicole Kidman and Billy Zane. The screenplay by Terry Hayes was based on the 1963 novel of the same name by Charles Williams; the film represents the first successful film adaptation of the novel after Orson Welles struggled for years to complete his own film based on it titled The Deep . Filmed around the Great Barrier Reef, the plot focuses on a married couple, who, after tragically losing their son, are spending some time isolated at sea, when they come across a stranger who has abandoned a sinking ship. A must see among sailing movies!

6. Deep Water (2006)

“Deep Water” is a 2006 documentary film directed by Jerry Rothwell and Louise Osmond about the history of the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race , a solo sailing race around the world that was held in 1968. The film follows the stories of the race’s participants, including Donald Crowhurst, a British sailor who became embroiled in a scandal when it was revealed that he had falsified his position in the race. The film also explores themes of adventure, ambition, and the human cost of pushing oneself to the limits. It was well-received by critics and audiences and won a number of awards.

7. Maidentrip (2013)

“Maidentrip” is a 2013 documentary film about the life of Laura Dekker , a Dutch sailor who, at the age of 14, became the youngest person to sail solo around the world. The film follows Dekker’s journey as she navigates the challenges and dangers of her voyage, including rough seas, equipment failures, and isolation. It also explores Dekker’s background and her motivations for embarking on such a risky and ambitious journey. “Maidentrip” was praised for its intimate and engaging portrayal of Dekker’s journey and for its powerful depiction of the human spirit and determination.

8. Master and commander (2003)

During the Napoleonic Wars, a brash British captain pushes his ship and crew to their limits in pursuit of a formidable French war vessel around South America. The naval action in the Mediterranean is  closely based on the real-life exploits of Lord Cochrane , including a battle modelled after Cochrane’s spectacular victory in the brig HMS Speedy over the vastly superior Spanish frigate El Gamo.

9. Morning light (2008)

Fifteen young sailors… six months of intense training… one chance at the brass ring. This documentary tells the story of a group of intrepid and determined young men and women, on the cusp of adulthood, as they embark on life’s first great adventure. Fifteen young men and women prepare for the adventure of their lives when they enter the TRANSPAC, one of the world’s most prestigious open-ocean sailing competitions. They begin their training in Hawaii with world-class teachers, but it is the race itself, a 2,300-mile ordeal featuring top professionals, that molds them into a cohesive whole.

10. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)

“Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” is a 2003 adventure film directed by Gore Verbinski and based on the popular Disney theme park attraction of the same name. The film stars Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow, a wily and unpredictable pirate who teams up with a blacksmith named Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) and a Governor’s daughter named Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley) to rescue Elizabeth’s father and defeat the cursed pirate captain Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush). The film also features an ensemble cast of supporting characters and is known for its action, humor, and special effects. It was a commercial and critical success and spawned a successful film franchise.

11. The Mercy (2018)

The Mercy is a British biographical drama film , directed by James Marsh and written by Scott Z. Burns. It is based on the true story of the disastrous attempt by the amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst to complete the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race in 1968 and his subsequent attempts to cover up his failure.

12. The Odyssey (2016)

The Odyssey is a movie which chronicles the life of the great Jacques Cousteau. Jacques Cousteau is perhaps one of the most famous French persons in the world due to his pioneering work on scuba diving, underwater exploration and film-making which introduced a whole generation to the wonders of reef and marine life in the ocean.

13. Turning Tide – En solitaire (2013)

It tells the story of Yann Kermadec whose dreams suddenly come true when he has to replace the DCNS star skipper at the last minute before the start of the Vendée Globe (a round-the-world non-stop single-handed yacht race). After several days of racing, Yann, who is in the lead, has to stop to repair a damaged rudder. This will disrupt his round-the-world journey…

14. White squall (1996)

Teenage boys discover discipline and camaraderie on an ill-fated sailing voyage. It is a coming of age film in which a group of high school and college-aged teenagers sign up for several months of training aboard a sail ship, a brigantine, and travel around half the globe when suddenly they are challenged by a severe storm.

15. WIND (1992)

Will Parker, played by Matthew Modine, loses the Americas Cup, the worlds biggest sailing prize, to the Australians and decides to form his own syndicate to win it back. In 1983, yacht sailor Will Parker (Matthew Modine) leads an American crew financed by millionaire Morgan Weld (Cliff Robertson) to defeat during the America’s Cup race against an Australian crew. Determined to get the prize back, Will convinces Morgan to finance an experimental boat designed by his ex-girlfriend Kate’s (Jennifer Grey) new beau, Joe Heisler (Stellan Skarsgard). When the boat is completed, the Americans head to Australia to reclaim the cup.

Finally, what do you think about our 15 sailing movies to watch at least one time in your life?

Sailing nandji ep 348 it’s all about balance the calm before the storm, come sail away: 4 stories about sailing, five best places where to sail at least one time in your life, 8 great sailing books for your reading pleasure, live your passion, subscribe to our mailing list.

Maiden Voyage. Round the world race by first all female crew.

What about “Maiden”. Terrific women’s movie, but good for all.

My Cruiser Life Magazine

The Ultimate List of the 17 Best Sailing Movies

Nothing can inspire dreamers quicker than an evening of streaming old sailor movies. Sailing adventure movies can be terrifying survival stories or inspirational documentaries about sailors pushing their limits. Unfortunately, Hollywood blockbusters are rarely sailing-related, but there are a few examples out there that will get the seawater in your veins pumping.

Table of Contents

Waterworld (1995), white squall (1996), wind (1992) – the story of the world’s biggest sailing prize, captain ron (1992), pirates of the caribbean (2003-2017), black sails (2014-2017) – a series with great sailing scenes, master and commander – far side of the world (2003), kon tiki (2012), the bounty (1984), all is lost (2013), adrift (2018), the mercy (2018), maiden (2018), chasing bubbles (2016), sea gypsies: the far side of the world (2017), red dot on the ocean (2014), maidentrip (2013), which are your favorite top sailing movies.

Feature Films and Big Productions – Best Sailing Films of All Time

In no particular order, here are my top picks for the best sailboat movies. Good sailing movies can be divided into two categories. Most are about survival at sea, less a sailing movie and more of a drama set on a sailboat. Others are feature films, sailor movies complete with sailing action and exploration. Let’s start with those.

It’s the year 2500, and the ice caps have melted, and sea level rise has claimed the world. The Mariner (Kevin Costner) lives as a wandering nomad on the oceans in his custom-built trimaran. Chased by thugs on jet skis, he leads a search for a mystical place called the “Dryland.”

Ok, it’s ridiculous, and it was a complete flop at the box office when it was released. But Costner’s trimaran is pretty cool. And what cruising sailor doesn’t envy him, with his sad little tomato plant and total freedom?

Based on a true story, White Squall is the story of the brigantine Albatross and her crew of college-aged men. Directed by Ridley Scott and staring Jeff Bridges as the salty Skipper, the movie is captivating and authentic.

The Albatross was a teaching vessel, and Skipper was there to teach the men discipline and how to survive as a team. Drama unfolds as the crew gets to know one another, and even more drama ensues when the brigantine encounters a freakish white squall offshore.

Even cruising sailors will love this inspirational story of an underdog attempt to take back the America’s Cup. For the uninitiated, the America’s Cup is the most prestigious trophy in sailing and the oldest trophy in competitive sports.

The movie features incidents taken from real competitions and fictionalized into the plot. Peter Gilmour, who sailed in the 1987 America’s Cup, was the “Sailing Master” for the film. Many of the yachts used in filming were actual boats from America’s Cup races. Best brush up on those points of sail and sailing terms before watching–this movie is as authentic as it gets!

Overall, the movie has the over-the-top romanticism of movies of the era, like Top Gun but set on the water. But just like Top Gun , this movie is as entertaining today as it was back then.

Absolutely no list of sailing movies is complete without including Captain Ron . And love it or hate it, it deserves to be in top place. Sure, it’s goofy, silly, and a bit dated. But this story of a straight-laced midwestern family throwing in the towel to live on a sailboat in the Caribbean resonates with dreamers and sailors like no other film does.

What makes the movie so special is Kurt Douglas’s portrayal of the singular Captain Ron Rico. Who else could’ve given us these quotes, which will live on, quoted repeatedly on sailboats everywhere?

“If anything is going to happen, it’s going to happen out there!” “A diesel loves her oil like a sailor loves his rum.” “If we get lost, we’ll just pull in somewhere and ask directions!” “Yeah, incentives are important. I learned that in rehab.” Captain Ron Rico

And then there’s the boat. The Formosa 51 ketch Wanderer was the perfect boat for this movie. Its dilapidated condition and lack of seaworthiness are sure to make every boat owner laugh out loud. But, like any good boat, with a little elbow grease, she got them through it.

There are tons of rumors and fables surrounding this film in sailing circles. But consider this. It accurately details two real types of characters. The Harvey family, led by the indomitable Martin Short, is like many starry-eyed Americans who fled to the Caribbean for a life afloat. And Captain Ron? He’s based on a real person . The real one even had a peg leg, but the movie producers thought that would be too over the top!

For a movie series based on a hokey 1960’s Disney Land ride, the Pirates of the Caribbean films have made a name for themselves. It’s the 15th highest-grossing film series of all time, and two movies have grossed more than $1 billion. There have been five films to date, but rumors are a sixth may be in the works.

So, Pirates is a fun series of movies, but how’s the sailing connection? Well, the Black Pearl is a sailing ship, sort of. It’s more of a ghost ship. And it’s all set at sea or on pirate-plagued islands in the Caribbean, so that’s neat. Overall, I wouldn’t rate these films as sailing ship movies, but they certainly are fun to watch.

It’s not a movie per se, but who doesn’t like a binge-worthy series? Combine Game of Thrones with a realistic pirate story, and you get the idea. It’s dirty, gritty, and historically accurate. Black Sails aired on Starz Network for four seasons and can be streamed on Hulu, Amazon Prime, and others.

The series is a prequel to Treasure Island and provides a backstory for pirates Long John Silver and Captain Flint. Unfortunately, Robert Louis Stevenson didn’t go into much detail about the notorious Flint, so the show used some artistic license to combine these fictional characters with the real pirates of the Caribbean.

More specifically, the stories are set in Nassau during its period as the “Pirate Republic” before England sent Woods Rogers to govern the island in 1718 and drive the pirates out. Yes, this is all there, and many real-life pirates are depicted in the show. The story tells the tales of Anne Bonny, Jack Rackham, Charles Vane, Israel Hands, and even Blackbeard. What a show!

And, of course, the ships and the action packed battle scenes are amazing to watch.

This movie is based on the novels by Patrick O’Brian about Captain Jack Aubrey (Russell Crowe), commander of the British man-of-war HMS Surprise during the Napoleonic Wars. The story follows the chase and battle with the French privateer Acheron , who they follow around Cape Horn to the Galapagos Islands, where drama ensues.

The characters in the movie and novels are fictionalized, as are the precise events. But the author drew from real events that occurred during the Napoleonic Wars. The film draws from three different novels in O’Brian’s series.

The film is exceedingly accurate, with all shooting taking place on real ships. Ten days of filming were done at sea, while the rest was shot in the same 20-million-gallon seawater tank in Baja California where Titanic was shot.

The Kon-Tiki Expedition was a 1947 raft journey to prove people from South America could have populated the Polynesian Islands. At the time, most theories believed that the Polynesian people settled from west to east, not east to west. The expedition was led by Norwegian writer Thor Heyerdahl, who wrote the book about it. There was also an Academy Award-winning documentary made by the same name in 1950.

The 2012 version is dramatized but follows the events closely. Heyerdahl’s opponents, at the time, countered that no expedition would likely be successful in reaching Polynesia from Chile. To prove them wrong, he builds a balsawood raft with the same materials and techniques that people would have 1,500 years prior. The 4,300 nautical miles journey doesn’t go smoothly, as you might imagine. But then, I don’t want to give away the movie!

You can’t talk about sea stories without including a good mutiny. And while there are plenty of good tails, few stand the test of time better than the character-driven plot of William Bligh and Fletcher Christian of the HMS Bounty . The story was portrayed in the 1962 MGM film Mutiny on the Bounty and again in 1984 in The Bounty starring Mel Gibson and Anthony Hopkins. Both films used extremely accurate replica ships.

Sailing Movie Stories of Survival at Sea

It can’t be denied that many good sea stories revolve around the conflict of man against the elements. The sea is the ultimate element, so many movies about sailing turn toward a darker survival story.

Most sailors dislike this movie immensely. It has so many flaws that the story takes on more water than the boat in the movie does. But putting those facts aside, it’s a gripping tale of one man (Robert Redford), alone on a sinking cruising boat in the middle of the ocean, struggling to survive.

In 1983, a young couple was asked to ferry a yacht from the South Sea islands, through the sailing routes across the Pacific , to the US. But things go poorly when they run head-first into Hurricane Raymond, a late-season Category 4 storm.

The boat is knocked down and dismasted, and the man is washed overboard. The movie is based on the 2002 book Red Sky in Mourning by Tami Oldham Ashcraft, the sole survivor. In other words, it’s a true story.

Another true story follows amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst (Colin Firth), a dreamer who sets out to enter the 1968 Golden Globe single-hand around-the-world race. The only problem? He doesn’t own a boat or know how to sail. So he gets some sponsors, builds a trimaran, and leaves his home and family behind. Then, as you might suspect, drama ensues.

Documentary Sailing Movies

Sailing documentary films aren’t for everyone and seldom make for a light-hearted date night. But there are some great sailing movies in this genre for those looking for inspiring true stories without all the big-movie hubbub.

This movie tells the tale of the all-woman crew in the 1989-1990 Whitbread Round the World Race. It features interviews with Captain Tracy Edwards, who formed the team.

This YouTube documentary is about the true story of the (self-described) worst sailor to ever sail around the world. At 25, Alex Rust left his life as a day trader in Chicago to sail the world. With a sailboat he buys on Craigslist, Rust finds adventure during his four-year journey.

Sea Gypsies is the story of the sailing ketch Infinity , a 120-foot hand-built vessel on a never-ending nomadic voyage. The crew of 16 “wandering miscreants” set out from New Zealand in 2014 during one of the worst winters on record. They stopped in Antarctica on the way to Patagonia, 8,000 miles away. The film has won numerous awards at global film festivals.

You can rent Sea Gypsies: The Far Side of the World on Venmo or Amazon Prime in the US.

Another story about a young man risking it all to find freedom on the ocean, Red Dot on the Ocean tells the story of Matt Rutherford. At age 17 and in jail, Rutherford became inspired and turned his life around. He bought a pocket cruiser sailboat on the internet and cruised from the US to Europe, West Africa, and back to the Caribbean.

He was then inspired by Artic explorers like Shackleton and set out to transit the Northwest Passage by boat. That led to his desire to become the first sailor to circumnavigate the American continents, a 27,000-mile journey.

You can purchase Red Dot on the Ocean on Venmo, Amazon Prime, or Apple TV. You can also hear some great interviews with Rutherford on the On the Wind podcast from 59 North Sailing .

Maidentrip is a movie about sailing around the world, as done by Laura Dekker. In 2009, Dekker decided she would become the youngest person to circumnavigate single-handedly. At one point, the Dutch courts stepped in and prohibited her from leaving. But with legal hurdles cleared, she departed in 2010 for the 518-day voyage.

Dekker sailed the 40-foot ketch Guppy on her trip. She was inspired by Tania Aebi, author of Maiden Voyage and person who previously held the record as the first American woman and youngest person to circumnavigate solo.

Whether you’re in the mood for hardcore action binging Black Sails or a light-hearted escape to the Caribbean with Captain Ron , there’s a little something for everyone. From docs to laughs, there’s a sailing movie to make everyone in your crew happy.

But the best is Captain Ron , seriously.

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• About/Contact
• Terms of Service

Finding Fun in Michigan & Beyond

13 Of the Best Sailing Movies, You Can Watch Again and Again

I’m a recreational sailor. I’ve been sailing on Saginaw Bay since I was a little kid. We started off sailing Snarks and Sunfish. Our family loved sailing movies, and we watched them all. In the early 1970s, my dad took advantage of a marketing campaign by Kool cigarettes where we could purchase a Snark with the white and green KOOL logo on the sail. We still have this old boat and manage to bring her out to play with from time to time. One of the things that irk me is the lack of movie entertainment that revolves around my favorite pastime. I’ve managed to collect a few examples of movies with sailboats here.

Sometimes you can find these sailing movies streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Hulu.

White Squall (1999)

The true story of a bunch of boys, a ship, and the sea.

The movie White Squall is based on the 1961 sinking of a brigantine named the Albatross—a two-masted sailing vessel with a fully square-rigged foremast—White Squall is an exciting tale of adventure, friendship, and tragedy. This sailing movie stars Jeff Bridges as Captain Christopher “Skipper” Sheldon, who takes his charges on an epic voyage around the world on the Albatross.

Along the way, the boys learn how to sail and how to work together as a team. They also develop life-long friendships and forge incredibly tight bonds that they can only get from being in such close quarters with each other.

But then tragedy strikes: A white squall appears out of nowhere, sending massive waves crashing down upon their beloved ship. With their lives on the line and all hope of survival seeming lost, Skipper urges his boys to keep fighting for their lives—and trust each other above all else, no matter what happens next.

Wind (1992)

Wind is a 1992 film directed by Carroll Ballard that follows Will Parker, played by Matthew Modine as he loses America’s Cup, the world’s biggest sailing prize, to the Australians and decides to form his own syndicate to win it back. Will hires Kate Bass, played by Jennifer Grey, to help him with his PR campaign.

The film co-stars Cliff Robertson as Morgan Weld, a businessman who offers to sponsor the team and pays for their yacht. Rounding out the cast is Jack Thompson as Michael “Brue” Brindley, a sailor who found success in racing and now manages an Australian team; Stellan Skarsgård as Bjorn Ericson, a Swedish sailor who sails for an American syndicate; and John McGlinn as Frank Hennessy, an Australian businessman who is investing in the Australian team.

All is Lost (2013)

All is Lost is one of the most harrowing survival stories ever committed to film, All is Lost is a minimalist exploration of a man’s struggle for survival in the face of adversity. In this case, “adversity” means “the Indian Ocean.”

The story begins with Robert Redford waking up halfway through a solo voyage across the Pacific. He finds that he has struck a floating shipping container, and his boat is filling with water.

Redford’s character is never given a name, but we do get to know him through his actions. He doesn’t panic when he discovers the leak; instead, he sets about repairing it as best he can. He rigs a jury-rigged sail to help him stay afloat while he waits out a storm. When the radio fails, there’s no bemoaning his fate; instead, he puts on his best poker face and keeps going. Each time he faces down yet another crisis and finds a solution, we learn more about him—and the stakes just keep getting higher.

Dead Calm (1989)

A young couple on a yacht trip in the South Pacific encounters a damaged ship and its only living inhabitant. He is looking for a ride home, so he can return to his wife and kids. The captain is suspicious and refuses to take him on board. As the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that the stranger was responsible for slaughtering the other crew members and that his wife may not be waiting for him at all.

The director depicts this story in an original way, shot completely on a boat, as it sails through the Pacific Ocean. Although the story is fictitious, it still gives us some real sailing skills and challenges of open water navigation.

This movie Dead Calm stars Nicole Kidman, Sam Neill, and Billy Zane.

Morning Light (2008)

Morning Light is a documentary that follows the youngest crew ever to compete in the Transpac sailing race. All crew members were between 18 and 23. The film follows the development of the Morning Light sailing team, their six months of sea training, and finally, the weeklong race across the Pacific between Los Angeles to Honolulu.

The film follows the young sailors as they develop their teamwork and learn to navigate under pressure and in high winds. The film also gives viewers a glimpse of the athletes’ personal lives: one woman struggles to find childcare so she can attend training while several others struggle with homesickness or the physical and emotional toll of leaving their families behind for months at a time.

The young sailors operate under incredible pressure: they are working hard to impress their sponsors (who have provided them with $2 million worth of equipment), they have only six months to learn how to sail, and they are constantly being compared to more experienced crews. They also must contend with a strict coach who pushes them harder than they’ve ever been pushed before.

Adrift (2018)

When you’re out on the open sea, you never know what fate may bring.

For Tami and Richard, it was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—and one they’ll never forget.

Adrift is the true story of their journey to love and their battle with Hurricane Raymond in 1983, considered one of the most destructive storms ever recorded. Tami wakes up in the aftermath of the storm to find Richard seriously injured and their sailboat in shreds and sinking. Now, Tami must summon all her will and strength to save herself… and Richard, with no possibility of rescue.

Starring Shailene Woodley and Sam Claflin, Adrift is an incredible tale for anyone who’s ever felt like they were fighting against the world.

Kon-Tiki (2012)

It’s not often that you can come away from a movie with a new appreciation for the world around you—but that’s precisely what happened when I watched Kon-Tiki!

The movie is based on an actual expedition led by Thor Heyerdahl, a famous Norwegian explorer, and ethnographer, in 1947. Thor theorized that South Americans had settled parts of the South Sea Islands, and he wanted to prove his point. So, after months of preparation, he and five other guys set sail from Peru on a balsa-wood raft. They planned to use natural elements (like stars and ocean currents) to navigate their way through the sea.

It sounds impossible, right? But they did it! And they didn’t even have modern equipment like GPS or maps—just a radio. It’s one of the most incredible things I’ve ever seen. You should watch this movie; it leaves you feeling inspired about what you can accomplish if you believe in your aspirations.

Maidentrip (2013)

The documentary, Maidentrip , chronicles the two-year journey of Laura Dekker as she attempts to become the youngest person to sail around the world. The video, directed by Jillian Schlesinger, is a testament to the human spirit and what can be accomplished when one pursues one’s ambition and works hard to attain it.

Dekker is depicted as a free-spirited outsider who finds her utopia in a never-ending sea. She is shown spending time with friends, getting tattoos, and enjoying life on her boat. While she does occasionally use bad language in the video, it never interferes with her message that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to if you are willing to work hard and overcome obstacles that may arise along the way.

The Endurance (2000)

The Endurance tells the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s 1914-1916 journey to Antarctica, which is considered one of history’s greatest survival stories. Following the terrible death of legendary English polar explorer Robert Falcon Scott on his journey to the South Pole, Shackleton embarked on his third voyage.

Shackleton assembled a 27-man crew aboard his ship, Endurance, and set out in search of a new route across Antarctica from the Weddell Sea to the Ross Sea. The expedition was thwarted by ice near the Weddell Sea, and Endurance was trapped for nearly a year before being crushed by the ice and sinking. The men escaped with their lives onto the floes, where they remained for another five months before reaching Elephant Island. Five men stayed behind at the site of their camp as Shackleton sailed in a small boat with five others in search of help. He sailed 800 miles through dangerous seas to reach South Georgia Island, where he arranged for a rescue ship to save his stranded crew members. All 27 men survived this ordeal, which is considered an epic feat in polar exploration history.

Sea Gypsies: Far Side of the World (2017)

Picture this: a gang of roving miscreants, with no licenses or insurance and an almost non-existent budget, is bound towards the most perilous seas on the planet.

This is almost the polar opposite of what you may have learned in your sailing classes. But for the crew of “Sea Gypsies: The Far Side of the World,” their story is one of adventure, courage, and determination.

In this heart-pounding documentary, a group of friends takes on the challenge of a lifetime: sailing from New York to Japan without any formal training, using only an old wooden boat that they built themselves.

“We knew it was crazy,” says Timmy Sniffles, one of the participants. “But we threw ourselves at it anyway.”

With three cameras on board to capture every moment and a host of experts who explain the dangers, they faced along the way, “Sea Gypsies” is a real-life thriller that will keep you glued to your seat.

The Old Man and The Sea Return to Cuba (2018)

Finbar Gittleman is a 75-year-old master sailor. He has a mythical position among sailors in Key West and the Caribbean after living a rough and perilous life at sea. As he returns to Havana, Cuba for the first time since Castro’s revolution, this is his narrative.

The Old Man and The Sea Return to Cuba : Finbar Gittleman takes you on an adventure of sailing, perseverance, and self-discovery.

In this video, Finbar recounts his life at sea and how he came to be in Florida. He also shares some of the hardships he faced along the way as he struggled to make a living in the harsh environment of Key West.

He then describes the day when he decided to sail back home – through the dangerous reefs of Cuba – with nothing but his old boat, a compass, and some provisions.

The Mercy (2018)

Featured on the Today Show and in the New York Times, this extraordinary narrative of amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst’s effort to solo around the world in the first race of its type, the 1968 Sunday Times Golden Globe Race, is told in “The Mercy.”

Crowhurst was an amateur sailor who dreamed of winning the race. Struggling with his business and family life, he decided to enter the race. He convinced a local businessman to support him and set about building a boat for the race.

The race was ill-fated from the start: one competitor died at sea and another disappeared without a trace. Crowhurst became increasingly unstable as he sailed around the world; radio transmissions from him became more erratic as he sailed on.

He finally returned to England, where he was declared the winner of the race due to his competitors’ fates. However, it was discovered that he had never made it past the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa and had falsified his log entries. He returned home in disgrace and committed suicide shortly after his return

The Weekend Sailor (2016)

It’s not often that a story like this comes along. “ The Weekend Sailor ” is a documentary about Ramon Carln, a Mexican man who, in 1974, wins the first crewed around-the-world sailing race on his boat Sayula II. The race is now known as The Volvo Ocean Race, and it takes place every three years.

The reason this story is so captivating? Carln wasn’t your typical sailor. He had very little experience with sailing, and he won the race with a crew of family and friends.

The film follows Carln’s journey: from his humble beginnings as a young boy when he began to dream of being a sailor, to his later years when he competed in the race and then won it (overcoming many obstacles along the way). It’s an inspiring story of determination and drive that you’ll want to watch with your whole family!

Related to Sailing Movies and Other Stuff

Upper Thumb Boating and Sailing – Here is another wonderfully produced video from LIVE Huron. This one focuses on Huron County boating and sailing opportunities with some great shots of Caseville harbor and breakwall

Interview with Author Jacki Howard – I reached out to Jacki Howard to see what she has done since the book was published 10 years ago. She is still involved with the book, but life has moved on. Like so many in the Thumb region, we are distant cousins. While we have never personally met, we found common ground with our interest in the “Dying Sparlings” Here is our exchange.

Boat Names – Transom Charm – The boat name you select may not seem like an important thing, but most of us feel that selecting the right name for our boat is important.

A Kool Little Cigarette Sailboat – In 1971 KOOL Cigarettes ran a unique marketing campaign. Magazines around the country ran an ad that if you sent in $88 and one box end from a carton of Kool cigarettes that this fully functional sailboat would be shipped to your door.

Michigan Monday – Saginaw Poet Theodore Roethke – Regarded as one of the most accomplished and influential poets of his generation, Roethke won the Pulitzer Prize for poetry in 1954 for his book The Waking.

The Amazing Michigan Photography of Steven Donahue – Steven was born and grew up on his family farm near Port Hope. He moved away and started studying the arts, including photography, in Chicago. He was in the military during the Vietnam War and became an MP. Part of his job was to photograph deaths and burials. A job I’m sure was not pleasant.

Michael Hardy

Michael Hardy is the owner of Thumbwind Publications LLC. Michael was born in Michigan and grew up near Caseville. In 2009 he started this fun-loving site covering Michigan's Upper Thumb. Since then, he has authored a vast range of content and established a loyal base of 60,000 visitors per month.

You might also like

US Coast Guard for the Great Lakes

Renewed Calls for Marine Sanctuary in Lake Michigan

How To Do A Kayak Roll: 7 Steps On How to roll a kayak

3 thoughts on “ 13 of the best sailing movies, you can watch again and again ”.

Substitute “Captain Ron” for “All is lost” and I am all aboard.

Charlie St Cloud was a recent movie with some sailing focus.

• Pingback: A Simple Guide to Hosting the Perfect Fishing Birthday Party • Thumbwind – My WordPress

What do you think? Cancel reply

Discover more from thumbwind.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

17 Best Sailing Movies & Documentaries

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate websites. See our full disclaimer .

Not much beats a good movie binge – so I’ve compiled a list of some of the best sailing movies and documentaries to inspire and humble even the saltiest sailors.

The best movies about sailing tug at the lines in our hearts and leave us yearning for life on the water. They also remind us of the power of the ocean.

I’ve personally watched the 17 movies on this list to give you a movie overview from a sailor’s perspective and my thoughts on why you should watch them!

I’ve also included links to the great sailing movies below if they are available on a streaming service such as Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu, Tubi, and more. Let’s get started!

Sailing Adventure Movies

These films about sailing tell stories of true adventure on the high seas. Packed with action and the occasional twists and turns, you will definitely be in for hours of entertainment.

1. All is Lost (2013)

With only one cast member and just 51 spoken words, this Robert Redford sailing movie represents what managing a crisis alone on the open ocean looks like.

A survival sailing film, the plot of All is Lost follows a solo sailor as he manages the fallout after a collision with a shipping container damages his sailboat.

You’ll see everything unfold step-by-step as this resourceful sailor handles the growing damage to his boat. Whether or not he makes the correct choices or if the situations are accurate is somewhat criticized by the sailing community. 

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH:  Even if you find the sailor’s circumstances less than accurate, the portrayal of a silent character as he faces his mortality is a very unique approach for a sailing film. The emotional performance by Redford is surprisingly relatable, and the plot will leave you unsure of the character’s fate until the very end.

WATCH ON AMAZON PRIME | WATCH ON TUBI

2. Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)

A sailing film based on a series of 19th-century navel novels, it’s one of the most underrated and historically accurate films of its era.

Master and Commander is set during the Napoleonic Wars and follows the Royal Navy Captain Jack Aubrey and his crew aboard the HMS Suprise.

The film’s incredible casting includes Russell Crowe as the ship’s confident and respected captain and Paul Bettany as Dr. Stephen Maturin, the onboard surgeon and captain’s confidant.

Rather than retreat to England, the captain opts for an ocean chase around South America as the Surprise seeks to repair damages while also outmaneuvering the superior French vessel to complete its mission.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH: From start to finish, you feel like one of the crew. All scenes follow the vessel, giving an especially real depiction of the aftermath of battles, factors in the decision-making, and the incredible loyalty and patriotism of the crew as they sail thousands of miles from home, fighting for their country.

The plot begins as the Surprise is given the order to capture a French privateer. The initial battle leaves the Surprise at a disadvantage when it’s revealed that the French ship is both bigger and faster than the Royal Navy vessel.

WATCH ON AMAZON PRIME

3. Pirates of the Caribbean (2003 – 2017)

This popular movie series based on the ride at Walt Disney World has had an incredible run starting with the first movie in 2003,  The Curse of the Black Pearl .

The film stars Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow. True to Depp’s style, the actor defined the character from day one, and the uniqueness has made the series what it is.

From pirate curses to Davy Jones’ locker – this is a wild ride you want to be on. Get ready to binge! 

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH:  Even though Pirates of the Caribbean has become a pop culture series, we love the thrill of this sailing adventure and still get chills when Jack Sparrow delivers the line, “Now… bring me that horizon”.

WATCH ON AMAZON PRIME | WATCH ON DISNEY+

Sailing Comedy Movies

These adventure comedy sailing films are great movie night choices for a fun time and a few good laughs.

4. Captain Ron (1992)

Thirty years after its debut, Captain Ron is still a popular cult classic. This film has to be one of the top sailing movies on this list. The hilariously wild plot makes it enjoyable whether or not you are a skilled sailor.

This sailing comedy starring Kurt Russell is about a carefree captain for hire and a Chicago suburban father (Martin Short) seeking a real adventure for his family.

When the father inherits a sailing yacht in the Caribbean, he decides his family should sail it back to Florida to sell it. They hire the incompetent Captain Ron to help them sail the boat to Miami.

A slew of crazy mishaps follows, including the consequences of the captain’s questionable past and pursuit by pirates through the Caribbean.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH: Although this is one of Kurt Russell’s only comedic roles, after watching the film, you can’t imagine anyone else as the easygoing Captain Ron. This movie not only makes you laugh but also includes plenty of sailing nostalgia that will have you planning your next Caribbean Charter.

5. the life aquatic with steve zissou (2004).

This Wes Andersen film features an oceanographer who is a washed-up documentary filmmaker, Steve Zissou (played by Bill Murray), and his search for revenge on a rare shark that killed his friend and crewmate. 

Zissou sets out on his voyage with a quirky crew, including a pregnant oceanic reporter (Cate Blanchett), his estranged wife (Anjelica Huston), and a man who he recently discovered might be his son (Owen Wilson).

As the story unfolds, a series of unfortunate events lead to unexpected developments with the characters and ultimately bring them together for a spectacular ending that will delight ocean lovers.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH:   The Life Aquatic is a Wes Andersen film for marine lovers. If you’re a sailor who likes Wes Andersen’s style, you’ll be left completely satisfied at the end of this wet and wild story.

True story sailing movies.

These sailing movies based on true stories take you on a journey with the sailboat crews that experienced extraordinary situations on the ocean.

6. Adrift (2018)

As far as sailing survival films go, this film is one of our favorites.

Adrift is the true story of Tami Ashcraft and Richard Sharp. Two adventurous people who find love on their travels and then face a deadly hurricane on a sailing yacht delivery across the Pacific.

The movie opens with Tami, played by Shailene Woodley, waking up in the hull of a very damaged sailboat. As she frantically searches for Richard, she goes on deck to realize that his tether has broken.

Cut to five years earlier, where we meet Tami getting off a charter vessel. As the movie progresses, we bounce back and forth between the story of the couple’s meeting and Tami trying desperately to stay alive.

You can find the highly recommended book on this story (and many other books on which these movies were based) on our list of books for sailors .

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH: Although the book of this tale (authored by Tami) is arguably better – our sailing soul still relates to the romanticized parts of this sailing survival movie, as well as the pain and loss that come with the tragedy at sea.

7. white squall (1996).

White Squall is a sailing movie based on the true story of a group of college-age boys in the 1960s who spent a semester on a tall ship in the Ocean Academy sailing halfway around the world. 

This movie starring Jeff Bridges, is about an old salt captain whose job is to build the character of this group of boys. Some were sent to him for discipline, some an escape, and various other reasons.

We follow the young men as they come together as a crew and ultimately face a terrible unpredicted storm on the sea.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH: Sailors will love the nostalgia that comes with a tall ship as the primary setting for the film. More than that, this story is about a group of misfits coming together to achieve a goal that bonds them for life.

8. the perfect storm (2000).

This movie is based on a non-fiction book that recounts the “Perfect Storm” or “No-Name Storm” that hit North America in the fall of 1991.

The Perfect Storm is somewhat loosely based on the book but follows the events of the swordfishing vessel Andrea Gail and her crew.

George Clooney plays Billy Tyne, the vessel’s captain with something to prove. The film also stars Mark Wahlberg as Tyne’s right-hand man.

After coming back to port with a disappointing catch, the crew heads back out late in the season only to be caught in one of the most devastating storms in history.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH: Sailors will find Captain Tyne’s passion and love for the sea completely relatable. You’ll also get a rarely portrayed image of what it’s like for the people who work on the ocean for weeks or months at a time – often risking their lives for their work.

WATCH ON AMAZON PRIME | WATCH ON HULU (Also on MAX)

9. Captain Phillips (2013)

Captain Phillips is the true story of a 2009 hijacking of a U.S. container ship off the coast of Africa by Somalian pirates.

The movie follows the decisions of Captain Phillips and his crew leading up to the hijacking and the intense series of events that unfold after the ship is under the pirates’ control.

It’s reported that although Hollywood’s version of the story casts Phillips as a hero, in reality, it was a more straightforward hostage situation. Even so, we love watching Tom Hanks in the role of Captain Phillips.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH:  This is an action thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat as the captain, crew, and U.S. navy work to resolve an intense situation. 

WATCH ON AMAZON PRIME | WATCH ON NETFLIX

10. True Spirit (2023)

This Netflix original movie is based on the true story of an Australian teen, Jessica Watson, who in 2009 set out to be the youngest person to sail unassisted and nonstop around the globe.

True Spirit follows the sixteen-year-old girl’s journey and her family and coach as they monitor her circumnavigation back home in Sydney.

We see the struggles unfold for everyone involved during the 23,000 nautical mile sail, as well as the challenges Jess and her family face with the doubting views of the local media.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH: Despite some of the cringe-worthy visual effects in this film, the story holds up and does a great job of communicating the emotional aspect of this young sailor’s journey. You really feel the moments of solitude and intensity during the storms, and you’ll be rooting for Jess the whole way.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

11. In the Heart of the Sea (2015)

In the Heart of the Sea is an adventure film directed by Ron Howard based on the story of the sinking of the whaleship Essex in 1820, which inspired the novel “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville.

The film follows the crew of the Essex, led by Captain George Pollard Jr. and first mate Owen Chase (Chris Hemsworth), as they set out from Nantucket, Massachusetts on a perilous voyage hunting whales for their oil.

After venturing to remote whaling grounds off South America, they encounter a massive and vengeful white sperm whale. The crew is stranded at sea for 90 days, facing hunger, dehydration, and extreme weather conditions.

The film is framed as a flashback, with Melville interviewing Thomas Nickerson, the last surviving member of the Essex crew, about the events that took place. 

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH:   In the Heart of the Sea is a gripping tale of maritime survival, exploring the complexities of human nature under extreme circumstances. The film also highlights the brutality of the whaling industry and its devastating impact on the sailors and the whales.

12. kon-tiki (2012).

Kon-Tiki is the true story of Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl’s daring 1947 expedition across the Pacific Ocean on a balsawood raft.

This film takes audiences on a thrilling journey as Heyerdahl and his small crew set out on a balsawood raft from Peru to prove his theory that ancient South American civilizations could have reached Polynesia by sea and settled the area.

The film beautifully captures the awe-inspiring vastness of the ocean and the camaraderie of the crew as they battle against treacherous storms, sharks, and their own doubts about the expedition.

Kon-Tiki  delves into the complexities of Heyerdahl’s determination, faith, and the audacity of his scientific pursuit, making it a thought-provoking cinematic experience.

This movie is based on the 1950 Oscar-winning documentary Kon-Tiki, directed by Thor Heyerdahl himself.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH: With its gripping narrative and meticulous attention to historical accuracy,  Kon-Tiki  immerses you in the harrowing challenges Heyerdahl and his crew faced during their 101-day journey of 4,300 miles across the Pacific. I personally really enjoyed this film.

13. the mercy (2018).

The Mercy is a drama film that brings to life the remarkable true story of British amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst’s ill-fated attempt to compete in the 1968 Sunday Times Golden Globe Race.

Directed by James Marsh, the film delves into the complexities of ambition, moral dilemma, and the fear of failure. 

Crowhurst’s desperate voyage, driven by the desire for fame and fortune, takes a dark and tragic turn as he faces isolation and the harsh realities of the open sea.

Colin Firth delivers a compelling performance, capturing the gradual unraveling of Crowhurst’s sanity and the inner turmoil of a man caught between his family’s well-being and his own obsession for adventure.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH:   The Mercy  explores the emotional and ethical challenges accompanying extended solitary voyages as dreams clash with the brutal forces of nature. It’s a compelling narrative if you’ve never heard the story. However, it’s similar to witnessing a captivating but tragic event unfold.

WATCH ON AMAZON PRIME | WATCH ON PLEX

Best Sailing Documentaries

These are a few of our favorite sailing documentaries about some of the most memorable sailboat races and adventures.

14. Maiden (2018)

This sailing documentary is the story of 26-year-old Tracy Edwards and an all-female crew that entered the Whitbread Round the World yacht race in 1989.

A former charter boat cook, Tracy defied the odds when she fixed up a second-hand boat and put together a team to enter a race no female boat skipper had ever entered before.

Not only is this an extraordinary story of overcoming inequality, but it’s a reminder of how courageous, determined, and resourceful the women’s sailing community can be.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH:   Maiden is an inspirational story of a group of incredible women who overcame tremendous odds and doubts to complete a nine-month, 33,000-mile sailing race.

WATCH ON AMAZON PRIME | WATCH ON HULU

15. Maidentrip (2013)

Maidentrip is a documentary that follows Laura Dekker, a 14-year-old Dutch girl, as she becomes the youngest person to sail alone around the world. 

The film depicts how Laura faced not only opposition from nature, but resistance from the Dutch government and child welfare organizations who tried to prevent her solo trip.

The film recounts her two-year journey as she navigates through rough seas and equipment failures and experiences the beauty and isolation of being at sea. 

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH: During this true coming-of-age story, you’ll be inspired by Laura’s strength and determination to pursue her dreams. We also love how the film reminds us of the spirit of adventure that drives people to explore it.

16. chasing bubbles (2016).

This sailing movie documentary is about a young man named Alex Rust, who quit his office job in Chicago, bought a small sailboat, and jumped headfirst into adventure.

The documentary recounts Alex’s experience as he teaches himself to sail, meets new people, and sets out on what would be a four-year sailing trip over thousands of miles.

Alex’s wild adventures take him to some of the most remote places on the planet. Chasing Bubbles shows the unexpected impacts he has on the many people that sail with him and the communities he visits along the way.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH:  Alex’s appetite for adventure will nudge that little piece inside you that tells you to forget everything and sail away into the great unknown. 

WATCH ON VIMEO

17. Deep Water (2006)

This documentary, narrated by Tilda Swinton, recounts the 1968 Golden Globe Race from the perspective of amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst.

Crowhurst enters this non-stop solo sail race with an unseaworthy boat and much financial pressure. What follows is a series of events that lead to a hopeless situation.

The Deep Water documentary includes images, interviews, and other media pieces from the era, including audio from Crowhurst himself.

In addition to this documentary, a movie was released in 2018 titled  The Mercy  starring Colin Firth as Donald Crowhurst.

WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH:  This story is not just about the events or happenings of one man’s experience but a dive into the psychological impacts of a nine-month solo sail in some of the deadliest waters on the planet.

Wrapping up the best sailing films.

We hope you found some good sailing movies to fill your passion and desire for cruising on the open sea! If you didn’t find what you were looking for, we’ve listed a few more of our favorite sailor movies below. Fair winds and happy watching!

More of the Best Movies About Sailing

• Dead Calm (1989)
• Moana (2016)
• Waterworld (1995)
• Styx (2018)
• Moby Dick (1956)
• The Old Man and the Sea (1958)

More Sailing Movies Inspired by True Stories

• Wind (1992)
• Mutiny on the Bounty (1962)

More Documentaries About Sailing

• Morning Light (2008)
• Sea Gypsies: The Far Side of the World (2017)
• Losing Sight of Shore (2017)
• 180° South (2010)
• Kon-Tiki documentary (1950)

YouTuber Documentaries About Sailing

• Untie the Lines (2018), a documentary from White Spot Pirates, watch on Vimeo
• 80 North: Sailing on Top of the World (2020), documentary from SV Delos, 80northseries.com
• After watching this list of movies, head over to our Sailing YouTube Channels list for more binge-worthy sailing videos.
• You may also like our post, Ultimate Sailing Songs for Inspiration and Life on the Water .
• Or check out our sailing-inspired post 50 of the Best Sailing Quotes to Live By .

Want to find more sailing inspiration?

Check out our lists of sailing quotes, songs, books, and more that inspire this lifestyle.

Like this post? Save it on Pinterest for later.

Or view our web story.

Morgan, the founder of The Home That Roams, has been living nomadically for over five years. She began her journey traveling across the U.S. in a motorhome and cruising on a liveaboard sailing catamaran. Currently, she lives full-time in a travel trailer, sharing resources on RV living and boat life to help others downsize their lives and thrive in an alternative lifestyle.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sign Me Up!

Learn how to live on a boat.

Get weekly tips on how to start traveling full-time on a boat.

View our privacy policy .

Privacy Overview

22 Sailing Movies You Must Watch In 2024

If you’re looking for sailing movies you absolutely must watch then you’ve come to the right place! Here are our top picks of the best sailing films out there to keep you dreaming of your next sailing adventure.

Adam and I have spent many a winter evening huddled together under a blanket watching sailing movie after sailing movie, and we found some great ones that we’ve watched over and over (and some awful ones too!)

I have to say that some of these might not be great ones to watch with nervous family members before you head off on any kind of voyage. They also might not be great for you to watch before embarking on a sailing adventure!

But even though we were living on a sailboat when I watched most of these, and even though I’m not the best at separating real life from fantasy, I didn’t get put off sailing. So you might be fine!

Obviously, films are a personal taste, but here are our picks of the best sailing shows out there – you’ll just have to watch them all to decide whether you agree with us or not.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate programs. This means we may receive a small commission on products purchased through our links at no extra cost to you.

• Chasing Bubbles
• Red Dot On The Ocean
• COYOTE: The Mike Plant Story
• White Squall
• Captain Ron
• All Is Lost
• Open Water 2: Adrift (2006)
• Dead Calm (1989)
• Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)
• In The Heart Of The Sea
• The Endurance
• True Spirit
• Untold: The Race Of The Century

Our Top Picks – The Best Sailing Films Out There

The Best Sailing Movies Based On True Events

These are our favourite sailing movies based on real events. Obviously, the filmmakers have had a lot of artistic license, and when you read up on what really happened it doesn’t always correlate with what you see in the film.

We still find these the most gripping films as you can imagine someone actually going through the events. Here are some of the best based on true events.

Adrift is probably my favourite sailing film of all time because I am in awe of Tami and her survival skills!

Although the movie itself rather overdramatises the events to pull on the heartstrings, it’s still a true story of Tami Oldham Ashcraft’s ordeal of sailing into a Pacific hurricane.

The boat rolls and she’s left unconscious. She wakes to a dismasting and then sails solo under a jury rig for 41 days alone to Hawaii with limited supplies.

It’s based on the book of her experience, ‘Red Sky In Mourning’, which you can get a copy of here .

I’d recommend reading the book first. I got so involved with the whole story that I read up on Tami afterward and her strength and courage through all she’s had to face in life, even after the catastrophic event, is really incredible.

✔ Get a copy of the DVD here

#2 Kon Tiki

Another of the best out there, in our opinion. The ones based on real-life events are so much more exciting!

This sailing movie is based on Norwegian explorer, Thor Heyerdahl, who crossed the Pacific Ocean in a balsa wood raft in 1947, together with five men, to prove that South Americans could have crossed the sea and settled on Polynesian islands back in pre-Columbian times.

We loved how the film was done, with the dramatic lead-up to a voyage that seemed so sure to fail, to the days the men spent at sea in a tiny floating raft. I won’t ruin the ending for you, but it’s a must-see film in our opinion!

✔ You can get a copy here

#3 Chasing Bubbles

If you want to see what sailing the world is really like then Chasing Bubbles is the documentary for you.

Alex was a farm boy turned day trader who set off on a voyage around the world at the age of 25. He had no idea how to sail, but stuck at his adventure for 4 years and filmed it all.

This is a true real-life sailing movie. It’s gritty, and raw, and the footage is far from professional, but that’s what makes it so compelling.

I found it hard to watch in places, and it certainly didn’t have the happy ending I was hoping for, but it’s great if you want to know what life at sea is really like.

You can watch it all for free on YouTube .

#4 The Mercy

In this sailing movie Colin Firth plays Donald Crowhurst, an amateur sailor who competed in the 1968 Sunday Times Golden Globe Race in the hope of becoming the first person in history to single-handedly circumnavigate the globe without stopping.

I found this an incredible emotional watch, but it’s one of the best films about sailing out there, with some superb action shots and a great true storyline. And an all-star cast really helps too! Give this one a few hours of your time and you won’t be disappointed.

✔ Buy now on Amazon

#5 Deep Water

This is a documentary of the film above and is a great watch if you enjoyed The Mercy.

This documentary-style movie uses original 16mm footage, tape recordings, and interviews, and reconstructs Donald Crowhurst’s tragic, perhaps foolish but certainly brave and determined journey to complete the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race.

It’s not always the most cheerful watch but it will certainly get you thinking!

#6 The Dove

This feel-good film tells the true story of  Robin Lee Graham , a 16-year-old boy who set sail in an attempt to be the youngest person ever to complete a solo circumnavigation.

Shortly after setting sail he falls in love, and the film shows this romance blossom as she meets him at different places around the world.

There are the obvious ups and downs, and we won’t ruin the ending, but it’s a happy one and this film is uplifting compared to some in the list!

#7 Red Dot on the Ocean (2014)

The inspirational story of Matt Rutherford, a severely troubled youth, who went on to become a sailing legend.

This film shows how Matt Rutherford overcomes obstacle after obstacle in his sailing journey, until facing his biggest ever challenge. To complete a non-stop circumnavigation of the Americas, solo.

This 27,000 mile journey saw him tackling icebergs and the legendary Cape Horn, a voyage many professional sailors declared “a suicide mission.”

It’s a truly inspirational story that you’ll want to watch if you have plans for a great sailing voyage yourself!

✔ Watch now on Amazon

#8 COYOTE: The Mike Plant Story 

This is more of a documentary than a film but it’s definitely worth a watch if you’re looking for some sailing inspiration.

It depicts the life of the single-handed American yachtsman, Mike Plant, and focuses on his sailing career. It’s an unconventional life, full of pushing boundaries and some notable successes before his tragic death at sea in advance of the 1992 Vendée Globe .

The Best Sailing Movies For Escapism

If you’re looking to forget about life for a while and be transported to the sea then check out these shows for escapism and be transported to the wind and waves!

Wind follows a sailor’s dream of winning the America’s Cup. It’s pretty cheesy to be honest, with fast boats, lots of drama, and of course a love story, but it’s a great film with some wonderful camera work – especially the sailing shots.

We really enjoyed this easy to watch classic.

✔ You can get a DVD copy here

I’m not sure if you can really class this as a sailing movie, but I’m including it in this list.

Adam and I aren’t Disney fanatics, but we did really enjoy this Disney sailing movie! It’s about a girl born to sail but held back by her family, until she just goes for it anyway and has the adventure of a lifetime.

I think any sailor will appreciate the nautical themes and the adventurous spirit of this uplifting show. If you don’t find yourself singing songs from this on your next sail then you need to watch it again, on repeat, until you know all the words!

#11 White Squall

This sailing movie is based on the 1961 sinking of the schooner,  Albatross , in the Gulf of Mexico. When caught in a white squall, the skipper tries to lead a bunch of school kid crew through survival tactics at sea.

I’ve got to be honest, we didn’t really enjoy the actual film production. The special effects are a little unbelievable and it’s a bit overdone.

But the actual boat is incredible and it’s an easy watch. It’s definitely one to make you dream of being out on the ocean again!

#12 Styx (2019)

This isn’t a feel good escapist sailing film like some of the others but it will have you completely absorbed for the duration!

Styx is the story of a young woman torn away from her own little sailing bubble, when she comes across a group of refugees shipwrecked at sea.

She faces many moral dilemmas out on the ocean that most of us hope never to have to face, yet here she is with some serious, life-saving decisions to make.

This is a film full of drama, and a little too much like real life. It will certainly make you think.

#13 Captain Ron (1992)

This is such a funny film and an absolute must-watch if you want to take your mind off things for a few hours and have some belly laughs.

Captain Ron is employed by a Chicago businessman who inherits a yacht, to skipper it from the Caribbean to Mexico. Captain Ron is perhaps not the most trustworthy of sailors! He wiggles his way into favour with the business man’s family, all while making a million and one sailing mistakes.

It’s a great watch and we highly recommend it!

#14 All Is Lost

I should really put a disclaimer here: I absolutely hated this film. But I know so many people who love and it is always recommended on sailing forums as one of the best sailing-related movies out there, so it has to make the list!

It’s a one-man show and starts with disaster when his sailboat is hit and begins to sink. It is an interesting look at all the mistakes you could make when stranded at sea, miles from anything.

My best guess is that they are trying to show how you don’t always do the most logical thing when in a tricky situation out there alone, but I couldn’t help but just feel incredibly frustrated!

#15 Open Water 2: Adrift (2006)

This is a bit of a silly story plot but I still found I wanted to watch to the end. When six friends head out for a sailing trip and jump in a calm ocean, none of them expect to be stranded in the ocean with no way of boarding their boat again.

You watch the excitement turn to terror as they realise they are lost at sea with no way to get back to safety.

✔ Watch now in Amazon

#16 Dead Calm (1989)

This psychological thriller has an all-star cast and a big reputation.

It tells of an Australian couple who take to sea to find solitude after the death of their son. They find a lone sailor who is the only survivor of a sinking ship, and he joins them on their yacht.

Obviously that’s a super simplified version and we’d recommend you give it a watch for yourself. It’s a little over-dramatised, but then aren’t all the best escapism movies!?

The Best Period Drama Sailing Movies

I love a good period drama, and throw in a set of sails and I’m happy for the evening! Here are my top choices.

#17 Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)

We actually watched this in Pilos, the site of a huge sea battle, in a super calm anchorage surrounded by castle ruins and twinkling distant town lights. Maybe that had something to do with how much we enjoyed it – though I doubt it!

This critically-acclaimed film was nominated for 10 Oscars and won for best cinematography and sound editing. We could see why! It stars Russell Crowe and Paul Bettany. It was based on a series of novels by the author Patrick O’Brian.

The sailing movie is set during the Napoleonic wars and dramatises the story of an arrogant captain attempting to capture a French warship.

Obviously, there are some tense battle scenes that will keep you on the edge of your seat, but some of the real highlights of this sailing show are the depictions of friendships formed on the high seas, and the tough decisions that needed to be made in times of war.

#18 In The Heart Of The Sea

Starring Chris Hemsworth, this period drama sailing film is based on the great novel Moby Dick. This film goes into more detail than the novel, and explores the real-life events that inspired its writing. With the recent orca attacks on sailing boats in the Mediterranean, this film has even more relevance.

In the winter of 1820, a New England whaling ship was attacked by a gigantic whale with a thirst for revenge. This movie delves into the aftermath left by the whale and the unthinkable decisions the crew had to make to survive.

#19 The Endurance

This is a retelling of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s tragic expedition to Antarctica in 1914-1916. It’s fascinating because it features new footage of the actual locations and interviews with surviving relatives of key expedition members.

You’ll also hear archived audio interviews with expedition members, and get to see footage from the trip.

The Best Sailing Movies On Netflix

There aren’t many sailing movies out on Netflix, though we’re pretty sure this will change in time. We’ve added a few you can watch in the meantime.

#20 True Spirit

It’s no wonder True Spirit took the world by storm when it was released on Netflix. It’s based on the true story of Jessica Watson, who aimed to be the youngest person to sail non-stop around the world.

It’s seriously tense in places but it has such a feel-good nature that we couldn’t tear ourselves away. Seriously, what an incredible girl to have endured so much and come through smiling. It’s the perfect sailing film to get you itching to go out for a sail!

This sailing movie is the true story of Tracy Edwards, a 26-year-old female skipper who led the first-ever all-women crew to compete in the Whitbread Round the world race. We really loved this film.

She was awarded the 1990 Yachtsman of the year award – the first woman to have ever received the award. It’s an inspiring story of perseverance in the face of adversity and a must-see for any sailors – especially women!

You can get your copy here or watch it on Netflix.

#22 Untold. The Race Of The Century

This isn’t actually a film, it’s a documentary, but you can watch as though it is a film and get totally absorbed in the action.

‘Untold’ is the story of the Australia II’s historic victory at the 1983 America’s Cup. The crew tell the story of their absolute commitment to winning the race, and every step they took to get them there.

It’s really well put together and gripping from the start, with lots of great sailing footage. This one is definitely worth a watch!

Conclusion: The Best Sailing Movies

So there you have it, our pick of the best sailing films and documentaries out there for you to enjoy sailing vicariously!

Hopefully, that’s enough to lift your spirits until the next time you can make it out on the open waters and create sailing movie adventures of your own!

Similar Posts

Boat Tool Kit Essentials

The 9 Best Sailing Drysuits 2024

Boat Yard Battles

Today I Feel Brave

Are We Homeless?

7 Large Cockpit Sailboats: When Size Matters

• Pingback: How To Learn To Sail For Free - Two Get Lost

you missed a big one. Mutiny on the Bounty. i enjoy all three versions.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Search Search Hi! We’re Emily, Adam and Tiny Cat, liveaboard sailors travelling the world on our 38ft sailboat and writing about it as we go. We hope we can inspire you to live the life you’ve always dreamed, whether that’s exploring the world or living a more simple way of life in a tiny home. Find out more. Patreon
• Privacy Policy

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Best sailing films on Netflix, Prime and more

• June 29, 2023

Fancy sitting back and enjoying some dramatic sailing footage from the comfort of your sofa? We pick the best sailing films on Netflix, Prime and more

Recent years have seen a proliferation of sailing films arriving on streaming platforms, with Netflix taking the lead on producing original content but there are many other sailing films on offer on the streaming services that can fulfil your sailing addiction from the couch.

So if you are looking for a documentary about the America’s Cup , thrilling dramas based on true life events then look no further (And just because I was banned from mentioning it in full, here by my fellow staff, you can find Waterworld for rent on Amazon , or on Netflix in some territories… just sayin’)

Best sailing films on Netflix

Untold: The Race of the Century

Another big Netflix production to be released last year, this documentary on the 1983 America’s Cup is bursting with iconic footage and up-close interviews with major players. The story of the 1983 America’s Cup is legendary to those with even a passing interest in sailing, seeing John Bertrand’s Australia II crew beating Dennis Connor’s American Liberty crew to wrest the America’s Cup from the New York Yacht Clubs grasp for the first time in 132 years – the longest winning streak in sporting history. 

Even though we all know what happens, it’s still edge of the seat stuff and you can’t help but be reminded (or introduced to) the dizzying drama, which so captured the world and the Australian nation that it led the then Prime Minister of Australia, Bob Hawke to claim: “Any boss who sacks someone for not turning up to work today is a bum,” following the famous victory.  

This unflinching documentary film tells the story of Tracy Edwards ’ all-female Whitbread Round the World Race campaign, through raw interviews telling of the personality clashes and huge pressures the team were placed under.

It’s an emotional watch, with fantastic footage from the maxi fleets racing mid-ocean: highly recommended.

True Spirit

The latest sailing film from the streaming giant, True Spirit , takes a look at the story of Jessica Watson one of the the most famous sailors from the late Noughties and early 2010’s phenomenon of multiple teenagers bidding to become the youngest sailor to sail around the world.  Jessica Watson, who set off from Sydney in 2009 aged 16, completed her loop of Antarctica – and a dip north across the Equator in the Pacific Ocean – to return an all-Australian hero after 210 days at sea.

The film is a dramatic retelling of Watson’s story and attempts to tread the fine line between staying true to her story and picking drama out of the narrative. Watson’s story is undoubtedly intriguing and any film taking on the challenge of conveying he long, slow, and arduous experience of the solo adventurer is always going to struggle to weigh realism with drama. But for the most par this stays true enough to the story to make for a satisfying viewing experience.

Adrift  is based on the book  Red Sky in Mourning  – Tami Oldham Ashcraft’s true account of sailing into a Pacific hurricane, dismasting, and then sailing solo under jury rig for 41 days alone to Hawaii.

The true story is astounding but the film plays pretty fast and lose with the facts. For pure entertainment it is still well worth hunting out and the terror of the extreme conditions does come across on the screen. You get to marvel as Tami manages to solve the catalogue of near voyage-ending disasters – no matter how implausible some of it might seem.

Pure escapism, and a reminder that when the chips are down there is usually a way out.

Best sailing films on Prime

This critically acclaimed documentary, by the makers of Touching the Void , tells the tale of the 1968 Golden Globe Race and how Donald Crowhurst falsified his position before mysteriously disappearing. There are impressive amounts of original footage to enjoy over 50 years later.

The 2017 cinematic telling of the 1968 Golden Globe Race , in which Colin Firth delivers a stand-out performance as the complex maverick entrant Donald Crowhurst. There’s a strong emphasis on the family narrative to draw in non-sailing viewers, but the yachting scenes were carefully researched and convincing.

It stands above many other sailing films as a pure viewing experience – helped along by Firth’s considerable talents. For those of us who already know the tragic story of Crowhurst there nothing here to fill in any of the gaps, as you’d expect from a broad-appeal drama, but you cannot help but be moved to relive the story once again.

Morning light

This was a real revelation when it came out and remains a solid documentary.

Fifteen young sailors embark on six months of training with the ultimate aim to sail a TP52 across the Pacific Ocean taking part in the TRANSPAC.

The premise is that this young, inexperienced crew (made up of 18-23 year olds) sailing  Morning Light  race the 2,300 miles against some of sailing’s top professionals.

The whole thing was funded by Roy Disney and remains a stunning testament to the rigours of racing and sailing offshore, and how much can be achieved by young sailors give a chance.

Best sailing films elsewhere

Chasing tokyo.

Chasing Tokyo is available to stream from the RYA and is an emotional watch. Filmed over a full year, it follows the British Sailing Team athletes as they readied themselves for the strangest Olympic Games in history – and the parents and partners who were left behind when the sailors headed out to Tokyo.

The film crews had unprecedented access to the sailors as they navigated lockdowns, covid testing, and disrupted preparations, and the medal hopefuls candidly shared their dreams and fears. It’s an insightful view of the strange balance of tension and monotony, life-changing highs and soul-crushing lows, of life as an Olympic athlete.

The documentary gives an intriguing glimpse inside the ‘medal factory’, the machinery of the British Sailing Team which has made it consistently the most successful Olympic sailing team in the world. The legacy of London 2012, and the importance of the team’s home base in Portland – with all its quirks and characters – stands out.

Must watch viewing for anyone with an interest in the physical and mental toll the Olympics can take on professional athletes.

This one takes a bit of detective work to find, but the full documentary is hosted online and well worth a watch. In contrast to True Spirit , it’s made up of real videos shot by teen Laura Dekker as she sailed around the world in 2010.

Without cinematic production and following Dekker’s stopping route it’s a much less dramatic view of sailing around the world, though no less gripping for it, and a fascinating insight into a remarkable teen. Those who came away from True Spirit frustrated by some of the dramatic license taken may well want to watch this.

It’s impossible to watch  the Untold: The Race of the Century story – or indeed any America’s Cup film – without referring back to Wind , the 1992 movie telling of how America lost, and won back the Cup.

Like any Hollywood interpretation there are a few cringeworthy moments, and I wouldn’t recommend watching it with a sailmaker, but it’s a warm-hearted film with some great 12-Metre race scenes, and the memorable catchphrase “Hoist the Whomper!”.

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

The Top 10 Best Sailing Movies

For many people (no judgment over here!), the first time they imagined themselves at the helm of a sailboat was after watching a perfectly idyllic sailing scene in a movie. That was is. They were in love. And while sailing isn’t exactly the way the movies make it out to be, we are all for a little bit of cinematic inspiration.

In no particular order and with a mix of action, romance, drama, documentary, and comedy, we present to you, in our opinion…

The Top 10 Best Sailing Movies:

White squall (1996).

Starring Jeff Bridges as the captain, White Squall depicts an account of teenage students who discover fortitude, discipline, and friendship on a doomed sailing voyage through a storm.

Captain Ron (1992)

The comedy, Captain Ron , features Kurt Russell as Captain Ron who skippers the inherited vintage yacht of Martin Harvey (Martin Short) and his family.  With questionable skills, Captain Ron takes the family on an amusing family holiday filled with misadventures.

Dead Calm (1989)

Based on the novel of the same name, this thriller stars Nicole Kidman and Sam Neil.  An Australian murder mystery, Dead Calm features a beautiful yacht, dangerous sailing, and a stranger who has abandoned a sinking ship.

Chasing Bubbles (2016)

In this documentary, Alex Rust leaves his land life to sail around the world. This three/four-year adventure focuses on Alex as he learns to sail Bubbles and his search for adventure and fulfillment.

(Alex actually bought Bubbles in the British Virgin Islands – not a bad sailing destination, if you ask us!)

All is Lost (2013)

This survival drama focuses on a man lost at sea during a solo voyage.  Encountering danger, Robert Redford’s character must come to terms with his own mortality in All is Lost .  It’s a classic man vs. boat vs. sea drama.

Adrift (2018)

Based on true events, Adrift is a love and survival story. A young couple faces a catastrophic hurricane and one must find the strength and determination to survive the aftermath.

Following Seas (2016)

The documentary Following Seas gives you a front seat to a sailing family’s ocean voyages as they navigate family, adventure, sacrifices, love, heartbreak, and dreams.

Wind (1992)

Based loosely on actual events, Wind , starring Matthew Modine and Jennifer Gray, focuses on the America’s Cup series of races as a backdrop for a romantic adventure drama.

Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)

Russell Crowe stars as the brash Captain during the Napoleonic Wars in this historical adventure drama.  Ordered to capture a French vessel off the South American coast, the captain pushes his ship and crew to complete the mission while facing questions of bravery, duty, and friendship.

Maiden (2019)

This is the inspiring true story documentary of the first all-female crew to enter the Whitbread Round the World Yacht Race. Join Tracy Edwards as she leads the crew in the 1989 arduous competition lasting over nine months and covering over 33,000 of sailing racing.

Have these sailing movies inspired you to get out on the water?

Start with our two free online sailing courses:

• Recent Posts

• Best Mediterranean Wine Regions to Explore on a Yacht Charter - August 27, 2023
• Best Family-Friendly Charter Destinations - August 27, 2023
• Yacht Charter Options - August 27, 2023

TWEET ABOUT

FIGHT CHILDHOOD CANCER

NauticEd is a fully recognized education and certification platform for sailing students combining online and on-the-water real instruction ( and now VR ). NauticEd offers +24 online courses , a free sailor's toolkit that includes 2 free courses, and six ranks of certification – all integrated into NauticEd’s proprietary platform. The USCG and NASBLA recognize NauticEd as having met the established American National Standards. Learn more at www.nauticed.org .

The NauticEd Vacations team are Expert Global Yacht Charter Agents – when you book a sailing vacation or bareboat charter through NauticEd, we don’t charge you a fee – we often save you money since we can compare prices from all yacht charter companies. PLUS, we can give you advice on which destination or charter company will suit your needs best. Inquire about a Sailing Vacation or Charter .

Online Sailing Courses Sailing Vacations | Charters Practical Sailing Courses Sailing Certification | License

Sign up for 2 FREE Sailing Courses Try sailing in Virtual Reality! Gift a Friend a Sailing Course Sailing Events | Opportunities

About NauticEd Contact Us NauticEd Support Privacy Policy

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

The best sailing films and documentaries chosen by the YM team

• Katy Stickland
• March 24, 2020

The Yachting Monthly editorial team reveal their pick of the best sailing films and documentaries to keep you entertained in the weeks to come. Feel free to share your favourites at [email protected]

Like many, we understand and accept the need to stay at home although we do feel frustrated that we can’t get out on our boats right now, so we tried to come up with the next best thing – watching films about sailing!

Here are our choices to keep you entertained in the weeks to come.

Hopefully these sailing films and documentaries will offer you a world of cruising escapism – just like Yachting Monthly does every month.

Remember, you can always get Yachting Monthly delivered direct to your door with a subscription or stay in touch via our Facebook , Twitter , Instagram or YouTube channels.

Theo Stocker – Editor chooses his favourite sailing films

*yachting monthly is not paid by manufacturers for our recommendations. if you click through and buy an item, we may receive a small amount of money from the retailer, at no cost to you.*.

Cross 1980s America’s Cup sailing with Top Gun , and you get an idea of what Wind is about.

Cheesey it may be, but fast boats, high drama, preening egos and the obligatory love interest match genuinely well-filmed sailing sequences for one of the most quotable sailing films of all time.

Wind follows one sailor’s dream to reclaim the greatest sailing trophy of them all – the America’s Cup.

After Will Parker (Matthew Modine) fails to lead his American crew to victory against challengers, Australia, he convinces his millionaire backer, Morgan Weld (Cliff Robertson) to finance an experimental yacht.

The boat has been designed by Joe Heisler (Stellan Skarsgard), the new partner of Will’s ex-girlfriend Kate, played by Jennifer Grey.

The film has some fantastic cinematography.

Buy the DVD now on Amazon (UK)

As sailors we are often faced with having to solve problems, sometimes miles from home.

Just think of Jeanne Socrates and how she overcame endless equipment failure to sail solo around the world non-stop without assistance.

All of it makes good fodder for films.

Adrift is based on the book Red Sky in Mourning – Tami Oldham Ashcraft’s true account of sailing into a Pacific hurricane, dismasting, and then sailing solo under jury rig for 41 days alone to Hawaii.

Admittedly the film plays fast and lose with the true story’s facts but it is still hugely entertaining.

You feel the terror of the extreme conditions and marvel as Tami manages to solve the catalogue of near voyage-ending disasters – no matter how implausible some of it might seem.

Pure escapism, and a reminder that when the chips are down there is usually a way out.

Watch it now on Amazon prime video (UK)

White Squall

Based on the 1961 sinking of the schooner, Albatross in the Gulf of Mexico, the Ridley Scott-directed film follows Captain Christopher Sheldon, played by Jeff Bridges, at the helm as he tries to teach fortitude and discipline to his youthful crew of Chuck Gieg (Scott Wolf), Frank Beaumont (Jeremy Sisto), Gil Martin (Ryan Phillippe) and Dean Preston (Eric Michael Cole).

When caught in a white squall, the boys use what they’ve been taught to survive. It is a bit like the Robin Williams’ classic Dead Poet’s Society , but at sea.

Jeff Bridges is solid as ‘Skipper’ who tries to make the boys men through life afloat, but some of the special effects are dodgy (At one point you can see some of them standing on the bottom of the tank).

The best part about this film (and the reason I think you should watch it) is the ship itself. The brigantine rigged Eye of the Wind , which is the Albatross in the film, is spectacular to see on the screen and it is easy to transport yourself out of your living room and almost feel the wind in the sails.

Katy Stickland – Deputy Editor chooses her favourite sailing films

En solitaire.

Also released under the title Turning Tide , this French film follows one man’s Vendée Globe race which gets turned upside down when he stops to make repairs in the Canary Islands and lands up with a stowaway on board.

Threatened with disqualification if his stowaway is discovered, weathered skipper Yann Kermadec struggles with his emotions, having to deceive his shore team as well as handling the pressures of the race.

Yes, it is a bit predictable but it is a heartwarming tale of how two very different people become friends.

I really liked the sequence at the start of the race and how the film captures the intensity of a solo round the world yacht race. The soundtrack is pretty good too.

What is more inspiring than watching Tracy Edwards and her ground breaking all-female crew in the 1989-90 Whitbread Round the World Race?

I have watched Maiden four times now and it still leaves me with a lump in my throat as Maiden makes her way back into Portsmouth, and punching the air when Tracy lifts up her well deserved Yachtsman of the Year Award.

Read the full review of Maiden here: ‘Powerful and inspirational’ Maiden documentary

The onboard footage is fascinating to watch, especially their second leg through the Southern Ocean which they won. You celebrate with them ( Maiden won Leg 2 and 3 in their class) and feel their pain when gear failure leaves them third in Leg 5 to Fort Lauderdale.

This footage is beautifully spliced with interviews with the crew members reflecting on their race. The brutal honesty still takes my breath away. One wonders if their male rivals would be equally as honest.

And yes, the disparaging expectations of some of the male sailing journalists still grates. Attitudes are changing thankfully, although more needs to be done!

Donald Crowhurst’s tragic 1968 Golden Globe Race aboard Teignmouth Electron brought to the big screen.

This still remains one of the best sailing films I have ever seen (and being married to a sailor and Whitbread/Golden Globe Race devotee I’ve seen nearly all of them, from films like Wind and The Old Man and the Sea to documentaries including Round the World with Ridgeway and Drum ).

The sailing is authentic for a Hollywood film, and yes there are some modern boats in some of the scenes shot in Teignmouth Harbour, but overall the sailing is true to life.

Read the full review here: The Mercy: ‘One of the best sailing films I’ve ever seen’

Colin Firth is standout as Crowhurst, who almost sleep walks to his fate, clinging on to the hope that he can prove the cynics wrong and win the race.

The film certainly got Sir Robin Knox-Johnston’s approval who described it as ‘a great film’. What more of an endorsement do you need?

Toby Heppell – Sailing Editor chooses his favourite sailing films

There is no denying this is an absolutely bonkers film.

I’m no film connoisseur but it’s well known this film absolutely tanked at the box office and was famous for losing quite a substantial amount of money – though when you finally factor in video sales apparently it just about saw a profit.

That being said, I absolutely adored this film when it came out. I was in my early teens at the time and racing dinghies at the weekend. Even then I remember feeling like someone behind the scenes actually knew about sailing.

Sure there are moments – as in many films featuring sailing – that sails are flapping or backed and the boat is happily making way forwards as if by magic. But the key sailing scenes remain impressive to this day.

The two 60ft trimarans that where used to shoot it were still look pretty modern even now. I remember watching Kevin Costner in full silent hero mode high-tailing it from the baddies, setting off downwind and firing a kite into the sky to help him speed away.

Not a spinnaker, mind, an actual kite. It felt like an inside joke about sailing slang put there just for me. Even now, I still return to it on the odd occasion.

It’s rare to see Hollywood doing sailing. It’s rare to see this much money thrown in the direction of sailing on the screen. If you can ignore the plot, the dialogue and much of the acting it remains a solid watch.

Morning Light

This was a real revelation when it came out and remains a solid documentary.

Fifteen young sailors embark on six months of training with the ultimate aim to sail a TP52 across the Pacific Ocean taking part in the TRANSPAC.

The premise is that this young, inexperienced crew (made up of 18-23 year olds) sailing Morning Light race the 2,300 miles against some of sailing’s top professionals.

The whole thing was funded by Roy Disney and remains a stunning testament to the rigours of racing and sailing offshore, and how much can be achieved by young sailors give a chance.

The Perfect Storm

As with Waterworld , The Perfect Storm is objectively pretty trashy. It’s made all the worse by the fact that there is no sailing at all in the film.

That it is loosely (very, very loosely) based on a true story of a fishing boat that heads out into the titular perfect storm with… consequences. It’s what keeps me coming back.

I grew up in a small town in Essex with a proud fishing tradition. The fishermen of the town would head out into the north sea on Smacks and other craft to ply their trade and, all too often, never return.

The walls of our local church are literally lined with memorials to those brave, lost men – the descendants of who still live there now.

So, The Perfect Storm may be about a fishing boat, in America, without sails, but it also serves to remind us what the sea can be capable of.

And it conjures thoughts for me, of those countless numbers who lost their lives at sea and under sail to keep the country and their families fed.

For all the latest from the sailing world, follow our social media channels Facebook, Twitter and Instagram .

Have you thought about taking out a subscription to Yachting Monthly magazine?

Subscriptions are available in both print and digital editions through our official online shop Magazines Direct and all postage and delivery costs are included.

• Yachting Monthly is packed with all the information you need to help you get the most from your time on the water.
• Take your seamanship to the next level with tips, advice and skills from our expert skippers and sailors
• Impartial in-depth reviews of the latest yachts and equipment will ensure you buy the best whatever your budget
• If you are looking to cruise away with friends Yachting Monthly will give you plenty of ideas of where to sail and anchor

• Find A School
• Certifications
• North U Sail Trim
• Inside Sailing with Peter Isler
• Docking Made Easy
• Study Quizzes
• Bite-sized Lessons
• Fun Quizzes
• Sailing Challenge

The Best Sailing Movies

By: Zeke Quezada, ASA American Sailing Association

Since we seem to have a little extra time on our hands why not binge watch some sailing movies? These may or may not be mainstream movies. The recurring theme is rooted in an adventure with sailing being the common thread between these films. 

9 of the Best Sailing Movies Ever Made

Mutiny on the Bounty 

This 1962 film starring Marlon Brando as Acting Lieutenant Fletcher Christian tells a story of the mutinying of Captain William Bligh’s Royal Navy Vessel HMS Bounty. A modern version title, The Bounty was made in 1984 starring Mel Gibson.

Amazon Streaming: Mutiny on the Bounty

Amazon Streaming: The Bounty

Pirates of the Caribbean

There are 5 movies starring Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow. Are they really about sailing? Well, they are about sailors and there are some sailing scenes but more importantly, they are wildly entertaining. Also, if you have ever been on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disney Parks you feel a certain kinship with the characters.

These movies are widely available on streaming services.

Amazon Streaming: Pirates of the Caribbean, The Curse of the Black Pearl

This is a sailing movie. This is an adventure movie. This is a love story. It is not a happy story though as we follow a couple who decides to see the world from their sailboat and then things go bad. Based on a true story this film makes you want to go back to ASA 101 and learn everything all over again.

Amazon Streaming: Adrift

All is Lost

Robert Redford on a sailboat. Do you need anything else? An experienced sailor decides to solo sail the Indian Ocean when his boat collides with an errant shipping container. Well, you know what happens then. Water in the boat, a huge storm and Redford having to fend for himself. 

Amazon Streaming: All is Lost

Maiden Trip

Follow Laura Dekker’s journey as she fought to be able to sail the world as a teenager. It is an inspirational story that makes you believe that anything is possible.  Whether you agree with her decisions or not; it is a fascinating story.

Amazon Streaming: Maiden Trip

Chasing Shackleton – PBS Miniseries

This miniseries follows a modern expedition that re-creates Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Trans-Antarctic Expedition, which launched in 1914. The series joins a crew of five intrepid explorers, led by renowned adventurer, scientist, and author Tim Jarvis, as they duplicate Shackleton’s epic sea-and-land voyage in a replica of the original explorer’s lifeboat.

PBS Streaming: Chasing Shackleton

Amazon Streaming: Chasing Shackleton

Sea Gypsies: Far Side of the World

A hand-built boat heading to dangerous waters crewed by “a band of wandering miscreants, with no permits or insurance and an almost non-existent budget.”  This is almost the opposite of what you may have been taught in your sailing education. It is worth a view.

Amazon Streaming: Sea Gypsies: Far Side of the World

The Old Man and The Sea Return to Cuba

A film about returning to Cuba for an old salt. This is about adventure, sailing and the ability to persevere. The title makes you think Hemingway but it is misleading. This is a sailing film about 75 year old master sailor Finbar Gittleman.  He has lived a tough and dangerous life on the sea earning legendary status among the sailors in Key West and the Caribbean. This is his story as he returns to Havana, Cuba for the first time since Castro’s revolution.

Amazon Streaming: The Old Man and The Sea Return To Cuba

Need More Alternatives to Sailing ?

• Download the Sailing Challenge App or the Catamaran Challenge App to practice your sailing skills.   
• Take a look at our videos to help improve your sailing education
• Get in some reading before you take a sailing course. Find an ASA textbook
• Take an Online Sailing Course
• Sign up for an online ASA Webinar

Related Posts:

• Learn To Sail
• Mobile Apps
• Online Courses
• Upcoming Courses
• Sailor Resources
• ASA Log Book
• Bite Sized Lessons
• Knots Made Easy
• Catamaran Challenge
• Sailing Vacations
• Sailing Cruises
• Charter Resources
• International Proficiency Certificate
• Find A Charter
• All Articles
• Sailing Tips
• Sailing Terms
• Destinations
• Environmental
• Initiatives
• Instructor Resources
• Become An Instructor
• Become An ASA School
• Member / Instructor Login
• Affiliate Login

Best Sailing Movies: Top Picks for Nautical Film Fans

Sailing movies have always been popular among movie-goers with their captivating stories of adventure and survival on the high seas.

From documentaries to feature films, the genre has produced some of the most thrilling and visually stunning movies ever made. Best sailing movies for sailing enthusiasts or anyone who loves a good film, there is no shortage of options to choose from.

Whether you are looking for dramatic stories of survival against all odds, action-packed thrillers, or inspiring documentaries, the world of sailing movies has something for everyone.

From the classic Kon-Tiki to the more recent White Squall, there are plenty of movies to choose from that showcase the beauty and danger of life at sea. Many of these films feature breathtaking nautical scenes that transport viewers to a world of adventure and excitement.

In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best sailing movies and sailing documentaries that have ever been made. We will examine what makes these films so special and why they have captured the hearts of audiences around the world. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or simply someone who loves a good story, these movies are sure to inspire and entertain.

Documentaries

For those looking for a more realistic portrayal of sailing, documentaries are a great option. Here are a few noteworthy documentaries:

Maidentrip (2013)

Maidentrip follows the journey of 14-year-old Laura Dekker as she becomes the youngest person to sail solo around the world. The documentary captures the challenges and triumphs of her journey, including her time spent in the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean.

Morning Light (2008)

Produced by Disney, Morning Light documents the journey of 15 young sailors as they compete to join the crew of the Morning Light, a sleek racing boat bound for the Transpac LA to Hawaii open ocean race. The documentary showcases the intense training and preparation required for such a high-stakes race.

Red Dot on the Ocean (2014)

Red Dot on the Ocean tells the story of Matt Rutherford, a severely troubled youth who became a sailing legend. The documentary follows Rutherford as he sails solo around the Americas, including his time spent in Patagonia and the Caribbean.

Styx (2019)

Styx is a German documentary that follows a woman’s solo sailing journey across the Atlantic to deliver supplies to refugees. The film captures the isolation and danger of sailing alone, as well as the humanitarian mission at the heart of the journey.

Abandoned (2015)

Abandoned is a documentary series that follows the journey of Jay and Natasha, a couple who set out to sail around the world but are forced to abandon their boat mid-journey. The series captures their struggles to survive and make it back to civilization.

These documentaries offer a glimpse into the realities of sailing, showcasing the challenges and rewards of life at sea.

Sailing movies can be a great source of adventure, drama, and excitement. This section will cover some of the best sailing dramas that are worth watching.

All is Lost

“All is Lost” is a 2013 movie starring Robert Redford as a sailor who is stranded at sea after his boat is damaged by a collision with a shipping container . The film is a gripping tale of survival as the sailor battles the elements and tries to stay alive. The movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves sailing and adventure.

White Squall

“White Squall” is a 1996 movie about a group of teenagers who embark on a sailing trip on a tall ship. The movie is based on a true story and is a classic coming-of-age tale set against the backdrop of a sailing adventure. The movie features an impressive cast, including Jeff Bridges, Caroline Goodall, and John Savage.

“Adrift” is a 2018 movie that tells the story of a couple who set sail on a journey across the Pacific Ocean. The movie is based on a true story and is a gripping tale of survival as the couple faces a hurricane and the aftermath of the storm. The movie stars Shailene Woodley and Sam Claflin.

“The Mercy” is a 2018 movie based on the true story of Donald Crowhurst, a sailor who attempted to sail solo around the world in 1968. The movie is a gripping drama that explores the psychological toll of the journey and the pressures of competition. The movie stars Colin Firth and Rachel Weisz.

The Old Man and the Sea

“The Old Man and the Sea” is a classic novel by Ernest Hemingway that was adapted into a movie in 1958. The movie tells the story of an old fisherman who sets out to catch a giant marlin in the Gulf Stream. The movie is a timeless tale of perseverance and determination and is a must-watch for anyone who loves nautical movies.

In conclusion, these sailing dramas offer a thrilling and emotional experience for viewers. From the classic tale of “The Old Man and the Sea” to the modern-day survival story of “Adrift,” these movies are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who loves adventure and the open sea.

When it comes to sailing movies, not all of them have to be serious and dramatic. There are some great comedies out there that can make you laugh and still give you a taste of life on the water. Here are a few of the best:

Captain Ron

“Captain Ron” is a 1992 comedy film starring Kurt Russell and Martin Short. The movie follows a family who inherits a yacht and hires a laid-back, eccentric captain named Ron to help them sail it from the Caribbean to Miami . Along the way, they encounter a series of mishaps and adventures, including a run-in with pirates.

The movie is a classic example of a fish-out-of-water story, with the uptight family trying to adjust to the free-spirited Captain Ron’s unorthodox ways. It’s a fun, lighthearted movie that’s perfect for a lazy afternoon.

Wind (1992)

“Wind” is another 1992 sailing movie, this time starring Matthew Modine and Jennifer Grey. The film follows a team of sailors as they prepare for and compete in the America’s Cup yacht race . Along the way, they face personal and professional challenges, including a rivalry with a wealthy Australian team.

While “Wind” has its share of drama, it’s also a comedic movie at heart. The characters are quirky and likable, and there are plenty of humorous moments throughout the film. The sailing scenes are also beautifully shot, making this a great movie for anyone who loves the sport.

The Weekend Sailor

“The Weekend Sailor” is a 2016 documentary film about a Mexican sailor named Ramon Carlín who entered the first Whitbread Round the World Race in 1973. Despite having no professional sailing experience, Carlín and his crew managed to finish the race in third place, beating out many more experienced teams.

While “The Weekend Sailor” is a documentary, it’s also a lighthearted and inspiring film. Carlín is an engaging and charismatic figure, and his story is a testament to the power of determination and perseverance. The movie also features plenty of stunning footage of the race and the sea, making it a great choice for anyone who loves sailing or adventure.

Overall, these comedies offer a fun and entertaining look at life on the water. Whether you’re a die-hard sailor or just looking for a good laugh, these movies are sure to deliver.

Action/Adventure

When it comes to sailing movies, there are plenty of action-packed thrillers that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Here are a few of the best:

Master and Commander

Based on the novel series by Patrick O’Brian, Master and Commander is a Hollywood blockbuster that follows the adventures of Captain Jack Aubrey and his crew aboard the HMS Surprise during the Napoleonic Wars. This epic film features stunning cinematography, intense battle scenes, and a gripping storyline that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.

Pirates of the Caribbean

The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise is a classic Hollywood blockbuster that has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. This swashbuckling adventure follows Captain Jack Sparrow and his crew as they search for treasure, battle rival pirates, and outwit the British Navy. With thrilling action sequences, memorable characters, and a healthy dose of humor, this franchise is a must-see for any sailing movie fan.

Sea Gypsies: Far Side of the World

For those looking for something a little more real, Sea Gypsies: Far Side of the World is a sailing documentary that follows a group of sailors as they embark on an epic sailing trip from New Zealand to Patagonia. This stunning film captures the beauty and danger of life at sea, as well as the camaraderie and spirit of adventure that drives these sailors to explore the world’s oceans .

Other notable sailing movies include Waterworld, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, The Old Man and the Sea Return to Cuba, Between Home – Odyssey of an Unusual Sea Bandit, and The Riddle of the Sands. Whether you’re a fan of Hollywood blockbusters or sailing documentaries, there’s a sailing movie out there for everyone.

In conclusion, there are many great sailing movies out there that can appeal to both sailors and non-sailors alike. From classic documentaries like Kon-Tiki and The Bounty to more recent films like All Is Lost and Adrift, there is something for everyone.

One thing that all of these movies have in common is their ability to capture the beauty and power of the ocean, as well as the challenges and triumphs of sailing. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or just someone who loves a good adventure story, these films are sure to entertain and inspire.

It is worth noting that while some of these movies may take creative liberties with the facts or exaggerate certain aspects of sailing, they still provide a valuable window into the world of sailing and the experiences of those who undertake it. As with any movie, it is important to approach them with a critical eye and an open mind.

Overall, the best sailing movies are those that combine compelling storytelling with stunning visuals and an authentic portrayal of the sailing experience. Whether you are looking for drama, action, romance, or just a good old-fashioned adventure, there is sure to be a sailing movie out there that will satisfy your craving.

About the author

I worked as an officer in the deck department on various types of vessels, including oil and chemical tankers, LPG carriers, and even reefer and TSHD in the early years. Currently employed as Marine Surveyor carrying cargo, draft, bunker, and warranty survey.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Latest posts

What Does a Longshoreman Do?

Longshoremen play a critical role in the global supply chain, bringing billions worth of cargo into the country. So what does a longshoreman do exactly?

The Ocean Warming Effects on Marine Life

The last few decades have seen ocean temperatures rise as climate change begins to affect maritime industries worldwide. Here are the ocean warming effects on marine life seen so far.

How Do Cruise Ships Handle Hurricane Season Cruises?

Thankfully, modern cruise ships can handle a hurricane season cruise. Due to past experiences and new advancements, crews prove these boats operate well no matter the weather.

35 Best Sailing Movies to Watch: Some of the top boat movies of all times!

Hello movie lovers! As someone who has spent years navigating the seas, I’m excited to share my passion for sailing life through the magic of cinema. If you’re looking for sailing movies that capture the spirit of adventure, friendship, and the ocean’s call, you’ve come to the right place.

I’ve compiled a list of the best sailing movies of all time, ranging from classic tales to hidden gems. These films are perfect for anyone who loves a good sea story, whether it’s about daring pirates or solo journeys. In this article, I’ll give you a quick description of each movie and tell you why it’s worth watching.

So come aboard and join me on this exciting journey through some of the greatest sailing movies ever made. With thrilling adventures and unforgettable moments, these films will inspire you to explore the open waters and create your own sailing memories.

Grab your favorite snack and get comfortable, because these sailing movies (listed in no particular order) will take you on a fantastic voyage filled with courage, strength, and the allure of the open sea.

Let’s set sail and dive into the world of these captivating films!

Table of Contents

Adrift (2018).

Adrift is a true story about a couple, Tami Oldham (Shailene Woodley) and Richard Sharp (Sam Claflin), who set sail across the Pacific Ocean in 1983. When a hurricane hits their boat , Tami is left to save herself and her injured fiancé with limited supplies and no communication with the outside world. With breathtaking scenery and powerful performances, Adrift is a thrilling and emotional sailing movie.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Adrift is a heart-wrenching tale of survival and love that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Shailene Woodley’s portrayal of Tami is both inspiring and heartbreaking, and the movie’s stunning visuals and gripping plot make it one of the best sailing movies I have enjoyed in recent years.

White Squall (1996)

Based on a true story, White Squall tells the tale of a group of teenage boys who embark on a sailing trip aboard the Albatross, a beautiful tall ship. With Captain Christopher Skipper Sheldon (Jeff Bridges) at the helm, the boys learn important lessons about life and teamwork as they navigate through the dangerous waters of the Caribbean. With stunning visuals and a heartfelt story, White Squall is a must-see for anyone who loves sailing movies.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: White Squall is a captivating and emotional story that showcases the beauty and danger of the sea. The young cast delivers outstanding performances, and the movie’s themes of friendship, leadership, and survival are relatable and inspiring.

Coyote: The Mike Plant Story (2017)

Coyote: The Mike Plant Story (2017) is a documentary film that tells the story of the life and achievements of solo ocean sailor Mike Plant. The film takes viewers on a journey through Plant’s experiences as he pursued his passion for sailing and became a renowned figure in the world of solo offshore racing. The film features interviews with Plant’s friends and family as well as fellow sailors, and delves into the struggles and triumphs of Plant’s personal and professional life, including his untimely death while competing in the Vendée Globe race.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Coyote: The Mike Plant Story is a compelling and emotional tribute to one of sailing’s most legendary figures. The film captures Plant’s relentless spirit and the challenges he faced as he pursued his dream, making it a must-watch for sailing enthusiasts and anyone interested in stories of perseverance and determination. This is a great sailing movie that offers stunning footage of the ocean and the boats, making it a treat for anyone who appreciates the beauty of sailing.

Not long ago Coyote was available to watch for free o YouTube, unfortunately this is not the case anymore. Here is the trailer if you are interested in renting it.

All is Lost (2013)

In All is Lost, Robert Redford stars as a solo sailor who is stranded in the Indian Ocean when his boat is damaged. With no communication or navigation tools, he must rely on his own wits and resourcefulness to survive. With little dialogue and a powerful performance by Redford, All is Lost is a compelling and tense sailing movie.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: All is Lost is a masterful example of minimalist storytelling, showcasing the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Robert Redford’s performance is outstanding, and the movie’s stunning cinematography and sound design create a sense of realism and tension that, if you are like me, will keep you hooked until the end.

Deep Water (2006)

Deep Water is a documentary that tells the story of the 1968 Sunday Times Golden Globe Race, in which nine sailors attempted to circumnavigate the globe solo. Focusing on the tragic story of Donald Crowhurst, a British businessman who entered the race to save his failing business, the movie is a gripping and tragic look at the dangers of solo sailing.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Deep Water is an emotional documentary that dives into the mind of a man who is being pushed to his breaking point by the sea. This sailing movie’s mix of archival footage and modern interviews creates a compelling narrative, and its exploration of the human cost of sailing is both thought-provoking and deeply moving.

Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)

Set during the Napoleonic Wars, this movie follows the adventures of Captain Jack Aubrey (Russell Crowe) and his crew on the HMS Surprise as they pursue a French warship around South America. Directed by Peter Weir, the film is based on a series of novels by Patrick O’Brian. With stunning cinematography, accurate historical details, and superb performances, this epic movie brings the 19th-century naval battles to life. The film received critical acclaim and was nominated for ten Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Master and Commander offers an immersive experience into the world of sailing during the Napoleonic Wars. The attention to detail and historical accuracy make this one of the best movies about sailing, a must-watch for sailing enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The performances by Russell Crowe and Paul Bettany as the ship’s doctor are exceptional, and the action-packed sequences keep the audience engaged throughout the film.

The Perfect Storm (2000)

The Perfect Storm directed by Wolfgang Petersen is based on a true story about the crew of the fishing vessel Andrea Gail who get caught in a massive storm while fishing for swordfish in the Atlantic. The film stars George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, and Diane Lane. The crew, led by Captain Billy Tyne, faces immense danger and tragedy as they battle the storm and attempt to make it back to port.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: The Perfect Storm is a powerful and emotional best sailing films that highlights the bravery and determination of the crew of the Andrea Gail. The realistic portrayal of the storm and its effects on the crew is intense and gripping. The strong performances from the cast make this film a must-watch for fans of movies about sailors.

Captain Ron (1992)

Captain Ron directed by Thom Eberhardt is a comedy about a dysfunctional family who inherit a yacht and decide to sail it from the Caribbean to Miami with the help of the eccentric Captain Ron played by Kurt Russell. The film stars Martin Short, Mary Kay Place, and Benjamin Salisbury.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Captain Ron is a fun and lighthearted sailing movie that offers a unique and humorous perspective on sailing. Kurt Russell’s performance as Captain Ron is hilarious and entertaining, making this film a great choice for those looking for a light-hearted sailing movie.

Maiden (2018)

Maiden directed by Alex Holmes is a documentary about the first all-female crew to compete in the Whitbread Round the World Race in 1989. This boat movie focuses on the team’s captain, Tracy Edwards, and their journey to overcome sexism and stereotypes in the sailing world.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Maiden is a moving and inspiring film that showcases the incredible determination and resilience of the all-female crew. The documentary also sheds light on the sexism and discrimination that women in the sailing industry faced during that time. This film is a must-watch for fans of sailing and anyone who loves a good underdog story.

Kon-Tiki (2012)

Kon-Tiki directed by Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg is based on the true story of Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl’s journey across the Pacific Ocean on a balsa wood raft in 1947. The film stars Pål Sverre Hagen and Anders Baasmo Christiansen.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Kon-Tiki is a thrilling and visually stunning film that tells the incredible story of Heyerdahl’s daring expedition. The film’s portrayal of the Pacific Ocean and the dangers the crew faced is both breathtaking and heart-stopping. This film is a must-watch for fans of sailing movies and adventure films.

Dead Calm (1989)

Dead Calm directed by Phillip Noyce is a psychological thriller about a couple who encounter a deranged sailor while sailing the Pacific Ocean. The film stars Nicole Kidman, Sam Neill, and Billy Zane.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Dead Calm is a gripping and suspenseful sailing movie that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The film’s tense atmosphere and strong performances from the cast make it a standout in the great sailing movie genre. This film is a must-watch for fans of thrillers and boat movies.

Captain Phillips (2013)

In this biographical thriller, Captain Phillips (Tom Hanks) and his crew are hijacked by Somali pirates while sailing on the MV Maersk Alabama. The film, directed by Paul Greengrass, is based on the true story of the 2009 Maersk Alabama hijacking.

Why it’s worth watching this movie:   If you’re looking for best boat movies, Captain Phillips is a must-see. Tom Hanks’ performance is outstanding, and the tense moments throughout the film will have you on the edge of your seat.

Maidentrip (2013)

In this documentary, we follow the journey of Laura Dekker, a 14-year-old Dutch sailor, as she sets out to become one the youngest person to sail solo around the world. The film captures Laura’s experiences, from her preparations to the completion of her journey.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: For those interested in movies about sailors, this inspiring documentary showcases Laura’s courage and determination, and her story is sure to motivate and inspire viewers.

Mutiny on the Bounty (1962)

In this classic adventure film, Captain Bligh (Trevor Howard) sets out on a mission to acquire breadfruit plants for Jamaica, but his cruel treatment of his crew leads to a mutiny led by his second-in-command, Fletcher Christian (Marlon Brando).

Why it’s worth watching this movie: The stunning cinematography and exceptional performances by Brando and Howard make this film a must-watch.

The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004)

This comedy-drama follows Steve Zissou (Bill Murray), an oceanographer, and his crew as they set out to hunt down the elusive jaguar shark that killed Zissou’s partner. Along the way, they encounter various challenges and obstacles.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: The film’s offbeat humor and quirky characters, along with Wes Anderson’s unique style, make this boat movie a fun and entertaining watch.

The Mercy (2018)

This biographical drama tells the story of amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst (Colin Firth), who sets out on a solo trip around the world in an attempt to win a competition. However, things don’t go as planned, and he soon finds himself in over his head.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: For those interested in best sailing movies, Colin Firth delivers a powerful performance, and the film’s exploration of ambition and the perils of the sea make for a compelling watch.

Wind (1992)

In this sports drama, Will Parker (Matthew Modine) joins a team of American sailors as they compete in the America’s Cup race against their Australian rivals. The film follows the team’s ups and downs as they prepare for the big race.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: The film’s focus on the competitive world of sailing, along with its exciting race scenes, make it a thrilling watch for both sailing enthusiasts and sports fans.

Abandoned (2015)

Abandoned is a thriller film directed by John Laing and starring Dominic Purcell and Peter Feeney. The movie is based on a true story that follows a group of 4 men that set sail from New Zealand for Tonga, and after a terrible storm, the boat capsizes. With no way to call for help, they must fight to survive against the elements and their own fears.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Abandoned is a gripping and intense film that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the end. It is definitely worth watching for fans of survival thrillers and anyone who enjoys a good character-driven story.

Around Cape Horn (1929)

This silent film documents the journey of the full-rigged ship, the Peking, as it sails around Cape Horn. The film captures the ship’s struggles against treacherous weather conditions and the stunning natural beauty of the region.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: This historical film is a fascinating look at sailing in the early 20th century, and the stunning footage of the ship and its journey is sure to impress.

Chasing Bubbles (2016)

 In this documentary film, Alex Rust leaves behind his corporate job and sets off on a journey around the world on his sailboat, Bubbles. Along the way, he meets new friends, faces unexpected challenges, and discovers the true meaning of freedom.

Why it is worth watching this movie: Chasing Bubbles is an inspiring and heartfelt film that captures the beauty and adventure of sailing. Rust’s journey is a reminder that life is short and that we should follow our passions and live life to the fullest. The stunning cinematography and Rust’s infectious enthusiasm make this film a must-watch for anyone who dreams of setting sail.

Moby Dick (1956)

 Based on the novel by Herman Melville, Moby Dick tells the story of Captain Ahab’s obsession with hunting down the white whale that took his leg. Starring Gregory Peck and directed by John Huston, this classic movie is a masterpiece of American literature and a testament to the power of the human spirit.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Moby Dick is a timeless classic that has inspired generations of sailors and adventurers. Peck’s performance as Ahab is unforgettable, and the film’s themes of obsession, revenge, and the struggle against nature are just as relevant today as they were when Melville wrote the novel. This is a must-watch for anyone who loves sailing, literature, or great storytelling.

Morning Light (2008)

A documentary directed by Mark Monroe, this film follows the journey of 15 young sailors from around the world as they compete in the 2007 Transpac sailing race from Los Angeles to Hawaii. The sailors, ranging in age from 18 to 23, were selected from hundreds of applicants to form two teams that would race identical boats. The film captures their intense training regimen, the excitement of the race, and the challenges they face during the grueling 2,300-mile journey across the Pacific Ocean. With breathtaking cinematography and an inspiring soundtrack, Morning Light is a must-watch for anyone who loves sailing and competition.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Morning Light provides an inside look at what it takes to compete in a high-level sailing race, as well as the dedication and determination of young athletes who pursue their dreams on the open sea.

One Crazy Summer! (1986)

Directed by Savage Steve Holland, this comedy film follows the misadventures of aspiring artist Hoops McCann (John Cusack) as he spends a summer in Nantucket with his best friend George and his family. Hoops falls for a beautiful musician named Cassandra (Demi Moore), but must also contend with her possessive boyfriend, the obnoxious landlord of their beach house, and a group of wealthy locals who are determined to sabotage his artwork. Sailing plays a prominent role in the film, as Hoops and George attempt to win a boat race against their rivals.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: One Crazy Summer! is a fun, lighthearted movie that captures the spirit of summer vacation and the joys of sailing. The film also features an all-star cast of ’80s actors, including John Cusack, Demi Moore, and Bobcat Goldthwait.

Red Dot on the Ocean (2014)

This documentary tells the incredible story of Matt Rutherford, a former troubled youth who sets out on a solo sail around the Americas to prove to himself and others that he can accomplish something great. With no sponsors and no real sailing experience, Matt embarks on a perilous journey that takes him through the treacherous waters of the Northwest Passage and around Cape Horn. Along the way, he battles storms, equipment failures, and loneliness, but also experiences moments of beauty and wonder as he encounters whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Red Dot on the Ocean is a captivating film that showcases the power of human determination and the beauty of the natural world. Matt Rutherford’s story is a testament to the idea that anyone can achieve greatness if they have the courage to follow their dreams.

Sea Gypsies: The Far Side of the World (2017)

Directed by Nico Edwards, this documentary follows the crew of the Infinity, a 120-foot hand-built ketch sailboat, as they embark on a journey between New Zealand and Argentinian Patagonia. The crew, made up of a mix of seasoned sailors and novices, face a variety of challenges as they navigate the remote waters of the southern hemisphere, including rough seas, equipment failures, and encounters with wildlife. Along the way, they also explore the culture and traditions of the indigenous people they meet, as well as the natural beauty of the regions they visit.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Sea Gypsies: The Far Side of the World is a visually stunning film that captures the thrill of adventure and the power of human connection. The crew’s journey is a reminder that sometimes the greatest rewards come from stepping outside our comfort zones and exploring the unknown.

Styx (2019)

Rike (Susanne Wolff) is a German emergency physician who sets sail alone on her yacht from Gibraltar to Ascension Island. When she encounters a group of refugees in a sinking fishing boat, she becomes torn between her moral obligation to help them and the safety of her own life. Directed by Wolfgang Fischer, Styx is a taut and riveting thriller that addresses the timely issues of immigration, human trafficking, and the ethics of rescuing people at sea.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Styx is a film that raises important questions about the moral responsibilities we have towards those in need, while also being an intense and suspenseful drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Bounty (1984)

This film tells the story of the infamous mutiny on the HMS Bounty in 1789, in which the ship’s crew, led by Fletcher Christian (Mel Gibson), overthrew their captain, William Bligh (Anthony Hopkins). Directed by Roger Donaldson, The Bounty is a classic adventure film that combines breathtaking cinematography, a talented cast, and a compelling story.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: The Bounty is a gripping and visually stunning film that explores the complex relationships between power, authority, and rebellion, while also highlighting the beauty and danger of life at sea.

The Dove (1974)

Based on a true story, The Dove follows the journey of Robin Lee Graham (Joseph Bottoms), a 16-year-old who sets out to circumnavigate the globe alone in his sailboat, Dove. Along the way, he meets and falls in love with a young woman named Patti (Deborah Raffin), and faces numerous challenges and dangers. Directed by Charles Jarrott, The Dove is a heartwarming and inspiring film that celebrates the courage and determination of a young sailor.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: The Dove is a charming and uplifting film that showcases the beauty and excitement of sailing, while also highlighting the resilience and bravery of its protagonist.

The Old Man and the Sea (1958)

Adapted from Ernest Hemingway’s novel of the same name, The Old Man and the Sea tells the story of an aging Cuban fisherman, Santiago (Spencer Tracy), who goes out to sea and struggles with a giant marlin. Directed by John Sturges, The Old Man and the Sea is a simple yet powerful tale of perseverance, courage, and respect for nature.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: The Old Man and the Sea is a timeless classic that captures the essence of the human spirit and the majesty of the sea, while also featuring a remarkable performance by Tracy.

The Riddle of the Sands (1979)

This film is a suspenseful espionage thriller set in the early 1900s, in which a British yachtsman named Davies (Michael York) uncovers a German plot to invade England. Directed by Tony Maylam, The Riddle of the Sands is a gripping and atmospheric film that combines adventure, intrigue, and romance.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: The Riddle of the Sands is a fascinating and entertaining film that offers a unique perspective on the history of sailing and the politics of the time, while also providing plenty of excitement and mystery.

Turning Tide (En Solitaire) (2013)

Turning Tide is a French drama film directed by Christophe Offenstein. The film follows Yann Kermadec (Francois Cluzet), a sailor who is invited to participate in the Vendée Globe, a solo around-the-world yacht race. During the race, he receives a distress call from a competitor and decides to change course to save the sailor. This decision jeopardizes his chances of winning the race, but Kermadec believes that saving a life is more important than winning a competition. The film stars Francois Cluzet, Samy Seghir, and Virginie Efira.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Turning Tide is a heartwarming film about sacrifice and humanity. It beautifully portrays the importance of saving lives, even if it means losing a competition. The film’s cinematography is stunning, and the music is mesmerizing. The plot is well-written and keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. The acting by Francois Cluzet and Samy Seghir is outstanding, making the characters’ emotions feel authentic. I think Turning Tide is one of best sailing movies to come out of France, with stunning visuals and a thrilling storyline. 

180° South (2010)

180° South is a documentary film directed by Chris Malloy that follows Jeff Johnson’s journey from California to Patagonia. Johnson is a surfer, climber, and environmentalist who embarks on an adventure to Patagonia to climb the Corcovado Volcano. The film explores the connection between man and nature and emphasizes the importance of preserving the environment. The film stars Jeff Johnson, Yvon Chouinard, and Keith Malloy.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: 180° South is a breathtaking documentary that showcases the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation. From all the movies I have watched, this is one of the best sailing movies for adventure and exploration, with breathtaking landscapes and inspiring storytelling.The film’s stunning cinematography captures the essence of Patagonia’s rugged landscapes and the people who live there. The documentary features interviews with prominent environmentalists, who share insights into the importance of protecting the environment. The film’s soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring music by Eddie Vedder, Jack Johnson, and Mason Jennings. Overall, 180° South is a must-watch for anyone who loves adventure, nature, and the environment.

1998 Sydney to Hobart

The 1998 Sydney to Hobart is a documentary film that chronicles the 1998 Sydney to Hobart yacht race, which was one of the most disastrous in the race’s history. The race was hit by a massive storm that created 115 km/h winds and 80-foot waves, causing six boats to sink, and five sailors died. The documentary features interviews with the surviving sailors, rescue workers, and officials who were involved in the race.

Why it’s worth watching this movie:  The 1998 Sydney to Hobart documentary is a gripping and emotional film that captures the horror of the disastrous yacht race. In my opinion, this is one of the top sailing movies for showcasing the intensity and unpredictability of ocean racing. It showcases the courage and resilience of the sailors and rescue workers who risked their lives to save others. The documentary’s interviews provide insight into the events that unfolded during the race and the impact it had on the sailing community. The film serves as a reminder of the dangers of sailing and the importance of safety measures while at sea.

600 Days to Cocos Island (1984)

This documentary film chronicles the journey of two adventurers, Martin and Osa Johnson, as they sail from San Francisco to Cocos Island off the coast of Costa Rica. During their 600-day voyage, they encounter various challenges, including storms, illness, and the threat of pirates. Directed by Errol Jones, the film provides a captivating insight into the couple’s bravery and determination to complete their journey. One of the best boat movies for showcasing the joys and challenges of living on a sailboat for an extended period.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: This film captures the spirit of adventure and the love of exploration that inspired Martin and Osa Johnson. Their courageous journey, in a time before modern technology, is an inspiration to those who seek to experience the world in all its raw beauty. The film is a testament to the human spirit and its unquenchable thirst for discovery.

Between Home – Odyssey of an Unusual Sea Bandit (2012)

This documentary follows the journey of Captain Liz Clark as she sets sail on a solo journey around the world on her sailboat, Swell. Along the way, she encounters various challenges, including storms, equipment failures, and the loneliness of being at sea for extended periods. Directed by James Wall, the film provides a fascinating insight into the life of a solo sailor and the beauty of the oceans.

Why it’s worth watching this movie: Between Home is an inspiring film that showcases the courage and determination of Liz Clark as she sails around the world. The documentary has stunning cinematography that captures the beauty of the oceans, and the film provides a captivating insight into the life of a solo sailor. Based on my experience, this is one of the best sailing movies about solo voyaging, showcasing the beauty and challenges of sailing alone across the world’s oceans.

Final Words on the Best Sailing Movies to Watch

I hope this collection of the 35 best sailing films has stirred your sense of adventure and inspired you to explore the vast and captivating world of boating. 

As you set sail on your own journey, remember that a great voyage also requires a well-chosen marina for safe harbor and camaraderie. To help you make the best choice, I invite you to check out our article on the Top 8 Things to Consider When Choosing a Marina, plus Marina Free Finder tool . 

May these films and our expert suggestions guide you to create unforgettable memories out at sea. Fair winds and following seas!

What is the movie about competitive sailing?

“Wind” (1992) is a movie about competitive sailing. The film tells the story of Will Parker, played by Matthew Modine, who loses the Americas Cup, the open seas yacht racing event. He decides to form his own syndicate to win the cup back in the next competition.

What is the movie sailing alone around the world?

There is a famous documentary, “Deep Water” (2006). It tells the true story of Donald Crowhurst, an amateur sailor who enters the first Golden Globe Race in 1968 to sail solo and non-stop around the world.

What is the movie about getting stuck at sea?

“All Is Lost” (2013) is a movie about getting stuck at sea. It stars Robert Redford as a man lost at sea after his sailboat is damaged. The film is unique for having almost no dialogue, with Redford’s character barely speaking throughout.

What is the movie about 5 people lost at sea?

“Adrift” (2018) is a movie about a young couple getting stranded in the open sea after a hurricane. For the specific case of five people, there is a 1978 film called “The Sea Gypsies” (also known as “Shipwreck”) about a man and his daughters along with two crew members who get stranded in the open sea in a sailboat.

What is the movie about being stranded on a sailboat?

“Life of Pi” (2012) is a movie that prominently features a character stranded on a lifeboat, but for a more traditional sailboat scenario, consider “The Mercy” (2018). This movie is based on the real-life story of Donald Crowhurst, an amateur sailor who attempts to sail around the world alone, resulting in disastrous consequences.

Why not explore more? We’ve got other sailing articles that you might find interesting:

• Sailing Outfit Guide
• Best Sailing Hats
• Best Sailing Gloves
• Best Sailing Jackets
• Best Sailing Shoes
• Best Sailing Sunglasses
• Best Sailing Watches
• Glossary of Sailing Terms

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read more

© 2024 BestBoatTips.com - All rights reserved

Better Sailing

Best Sailing Movies

We love everything that has to do with sailing and all things that are connected with the ocean. One of them is sailing movies! There are several movies about sailing which you have to add to your “must-see” list. Wild voyages overseas, battles between warships, survival stories, documentaries, and adventure movies. These nautical movies are not only interesting to watch but very educational at the same time for every passionate sailor. That is the main reason why I think it’s a good idea to create a list of the best sailing movies. So, keep reading below and inspire yourself for your next movie night or when you just can’t seem to approach dry land. 

Best Sailing Documentaries

• Maidentrip (2013): Maidentrip is directed by Jillian Schlesinger but it was filmed with a Sony Handy camera and narrated in both English and Dutch by Dekker herself during long passages aboard Guppy, her 38-foot ketch. In between endless days of sailing, there are stops at the Panama Canal, the Canary Islands, the Galapagos Islands, and French Polynesia. Maidentrip is a documentary that recounts the story of Laura Dekker. Laura is a Dutch schoolgirl who became the youngest person to sail alone around the world in January 2012, at the age of 16. It’s really nice to see that an adolescent decided to hunt her life’s dream and finally achieved to accomplish it. Don’t miss it!
• Racing Around the World Alone (2010): This is the story of the 2009 Vendée Globe race. In that race, 30 skippers embark on a journey in order to be the fastest to sail 27,000 miles around the world. This quest is non stop, without assistance, and all-alone on 60-foot sailboats. This is certainly one of the most extreme challenges a human being can face. Being at sea for months without stopping, undoubtedly carries an emotional and physical strength.
• Jean du Sud (1984): This documentary recounts the story of sailor Yves Gélinas’s. He did solo a circumnavigation of 28,000 miles aboard his Alberg 30 sloop, Jean-du-Sud. Yves crossed the ocean from France to Quebec via the Roaring Forties of the Southern Ocean and Cape Horn. Yves shot the 16 mm film in order to share his experience with other sailors, particularly about the use of his self-steering gear.
• Deep Water (2006): This is a fascinating documentary about the first single-handed around-the-world sailing race. The main character is Donald Crowhurst, a father of four children that attempted to win the fastest voyage prize. Donald received funding from a local businessman and bought a trimaran in order to support his failing business. Watch the documentary to see what happened next…
• Maiden (2018): The film tells the story of Tracy Edwards, who became the skipper of the first-ever all-female crew to enter the Whitbread Round the World Race in 1989. Tracy Edwards had her first Whitbread Round to the World Race experience. At that time, she was working in the galley of the boat Atlantic Privateer. She then decided to take part as a skipper and after three years she bought the 58ft yacht Maiden. So then Tracy assembled a female crew and entered the race. The girls achieved and won two of the Whitbread legs and came second in class overall.

Best Sailing Adventure and Drama Movies

• Adrift (2018): This movie is about the story of a couple, who was hired to take a 44-foot sailboat on a 4,000-mile journey, from Tahiti to San Diego. About halfway through their cross-Pacific journey, they unexpectedly ran into Hurricane Raymond. They tried to control the sailboat in 145-knot winds, but Tami (the girl), was washed overboard and suffered from a head injury. However, they managed to jerry-rig a sail and then navigated manually for 1,500 miles to Hawaii. This movie is not just about survival but also a love story. Definitely worth watching it!
• Between Home – Odyssey of an Unusual Sea Bandit (2012):  This film is an adventure documentary about Nick Jaffe, an amateur sailor. Nick attempted a solo oceanic journey from Europe to Australia. Through the film we watch him battle the wind, the sea, and severe isolation as he follows his dreams.
• White Squall (1996): This movie was directed by Ridley Scott and stars Jeff Bridges. It is based on a true story about a small group of American teens that begin their lifetime sailing adventure. The boys learn about teamwork and discipline while they’re sailing for 8 months aboard a ship called Albatross. The film is set back in the 1960s, and is a must sea nautical adventure!
• All is Lost (2013): In this movie, stars Robert Redford as a solo sailor who meets disastrous circumstances at sea. It is then that he has a tiring battle and fights for his life. The storyline is a simple yet frightening tale of a man surviving on the water.
• En solitaire (2013): Turning Tide is a story about the Vendee Globe, a single-handed nonstop race around the globe. It focuses on the leading actor, Yann Kermadec, who replaced the DCNS Skipper. After a few days of sailing, he realizes that he has a hidden fellow passenger onboard. It is a moving film but adventurous film, that gives a real insight into what life is like onboard an ocean racing yacht.

Best Sailing Old-Time Classics

• Kon Tiki (2012): The story of this film has to do about a Norwegian explorer, Thor Heyerdahl. Thor along with five others set off on a 4300-mile journey across the Pacific. Their goal was to prove that South America could have been settled by Polynesians. They did this cruising with their vessel, a large raft called Kon Tiki, back in 1947. The voyage took over 100 days and its story is so stimulating that I definitely recommend you watching it.
• The Riddle of the Sands (1979): This film is based on the classic novel by Erskine Childers, The Riddle of the Sands, and was directed by Tony Maylam. The movie is a British spy thriller around two British sailors who are exploring the shallow waters of the Frisian Islands in 1901. Suddenly they discover a German plot that was invading the East Coast of England. Although the story is different from the book, it is another beautifully shot sailing film worth seeing it.
• Wind (1992): Will Parker, played by Matthew Modine, loses America’s Cup, the world’s biggest sailing prize, to the Australians. He then decided to form his own syndicate to win it back. In 1983, the loss of America’s Cup to Australia broke the longest-running winning streak in world sports history. Everyone who is in love with the sea and sailing will definitely consider this movie as a classic.
• Lifeboat (1944): Lifeboat is a classic Alfred Hitchcock film. During World War II, in the middle of the Atlantic, a ship and a German U-boat clash destroy each other. Then, a group of five survivors finds refuge in a lifeboat. However, trouble starts when they rescue an adversary survivor. If you’re a fan of old classics you certainly don’t want to miss that!
• The African Queen (1951): This is a small boat adventure film released in 1951. Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn, the main actors, travel through the African jungle, navigating through the battles of World War I.

Best Sailing Movies – Summary

Being a passionate sailor means being interested in everything that surrounds sailing. The above-mentioned movies are by far the best sailing movies of all time. It’s worth watching them while you’re cruising overseas or when you are preparing to embark on your sailboat. Whether you’re an amateur sailor or passionate about sailing movies make some popcorn, grab a drink and let the movie night start!

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

Related Posts

Atlantic vs Pacific: Which is More Dangerous for Sailing?

Why Do Sailboats Lean?

How Does a Boat Sail Upwind? Unveiling the Mechanics of Against the Wind Sailing

How Does Sailing Work? The Physics of Sailing

• Buyer's Guide
• Destinations
• Maintenance
• Sailing Info

Hit enter to search or ESC to close.

The 7 Best Sailing Movies

Watching sailing movies can be a fun way to unwind and relax on the television with friends and family.

We've compiled a list of 7 top sailing movies to watch.

The 7 best sailing movies are:

• Best Adventure : All Is Lost
• Best Romance : Adrift
• Best Drama : Kon-Tiki
• Best Period Drama : Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World
• Best Classic : The Riddle Of The Sands
• Best Documentary : Maidentrip
• Best Thriller : Dead Calm

These sailing movies cover all genres and age groups so there is a choice for every viewer.

1. All Is Lost

The best adventure sailing movie is All Is Lost. We rate this movie 7/10.

All Is Lost is 1hr 46 minutes in duration. It was released in 2013 and is directed by J. C. Chandor. In 2014, it was nominated for the golden globe award for best original score. All Is Lost is rated PG-13 due to very minor amounts of strong language.

The sole cast in this movie is actor Robert Redford. He is the only person on the screen for the entire movie. There are 51 English words spoken in total in the movie with the majority of the film in silence.

The plot of the movie All Is Lost follows a lone sailor (played by Robert Redford) who is stranded in the Indian Ocean after his sailboat is damaged by a shipping container. He must use his survival skills to try to stay alive and find a way to be rescued.

The film takes the viewers through all the trials and tribulations Robert Redford encounters as he battles the sea alone on a damaged boat.

All is Lost is a great movie to watch due to its minimalist storytelling and the powerful performance of Robert Redford, who is the only actor who appears on screen for the entire film. The film's cinematography and use of sound design also add to the sense of isolation and desperation experienced by the main character. Additionally, the movie helps provide viewers with a realistic portrayal of the struggles of survival at sea, which makes it a compelling and intense watch.

People can watch the All Is Lost movie on Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Youtube Movies, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Rakuten TV, Sky Movies, Roku TV and Vudu.

The best romantic sailing movie is Adrift. We rate this movie 6.7/10.

Adrift is 1hr 36 minutes in duration. It was released in June, 2018 and is directed by Baltasar Kormákur. The film is based on the 2002 book "Red Sky in Mourning" by Tami Oldham Ashcraft, a true story set during the events of Hurricane Raymond in 1983. In 2019, it was nominated for best romance at the Golden Trailer Awards.

Adrift is rated PG-13 due to very minor amounts of strong language and nudity.

The main cast in this movie is Shailene Woodley who played Tami Oldham and Sam Claflin who played Richard Sharp.

The plot of the movie Adrift follows Tami Oldham and Richard Sharp, who set sail on a journey across the ocean in 1983. Their plan is to travel from Tahiti to San Diego but they are caught in one of the most catastrophic hurricanes in recorded history. Tami wakes up after the storm with Richard badly injured and the boat in ruins. With no hope of rescue, Tami must find the strength and determination to save herself and the only man she has ever loved. It is a story of survival, love, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Adrift is a great movie to watch because it is a critically acclaimed film that tells a powerful and emotional true story of survival and love. The performances by the lead actors, Shailene Woodley and Sam Claflin are highly praised and are often cited as the highlights of the film. The movie also features stunning visuals and breathtaking cinematography that capture the beauty and dangers of the ocean.

Additionally, the film deals with important themes such as perseverance, determination, and the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity. If you enjoy movies that are both visually stunning and emotionally powerful, then Adrift is a film that you should definitely watch.

People can watch the Adrift movie on Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Youtube Movies, Google Play Movies, Rakuten TV, Sky Movies, Roku TV and Vudu.

3. Kon-Tiki

The best drama sailing movie is Kon-Tiki. We rate this movie 8.4/10.

Kon-Tiki is 1hr 58 minutes in duration. It was released in August, 2012 and is directed by Espen Sandberg and Joachim Rønning. In 2013, it was Oscar-nominated for best foreign language film of the year.

Kon-Tiki is rated PG-13 due to the violence against sharks in the movie.

The main cast in this movie is Pål Sverre Hagen who played Thor Heyerdahl and Tobias Santelmann who played Knut Haugland.

The plot of the movie Kon-Tiki follows the true story of the 1947 journey of Norwegian explorer and ethnographer Thor Heyerdahl and his crew, who set out to cross the Pacific Ocean on a balsa wood raft called the Kon-Tiki to prove that ancient people could have made the trip. The film follows their journey which is filled with danger and adventure as they face storms, sharks, and other obstacles in their attempt to reach their destination. Along the way, they also make an important discovery that further supports Heyerdahl's theories about ancient ocean travel.

Kon-Tiki is a great movie to watch because it is generally considered to be a well-made and engaging film that tells an interesting and historically significant story. It received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike with many praising its strong performances, accurate depiction of the journey and breathtaking cinematography. It also won several awards and nominations, such as the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

People who are interested in historical dramas, adventure stories, and oceanic exploration tend to enjoy this movie.

People can watch the Kon-Tiki movie on Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Youtube Movies, Google Play Movies, Rakuten TV, Sky Movies, Roku TV, Microsoft Store, and Vudu.

4. Master And Commander: The Far Side of the World

The best period drama sailing movie is Master And Commander: The Far Side of the World. We rate this movie 9/10.

Master And Commander: The Far Side of the World is 2hr 18 minutes in duration. It was released in November, 2003 and is directed by Peter Weir. It was nominated for 10 Oscars and won best cinematography and best sound editing.

Master And Commander: The Far Side of the World is rated PG-13 due to the scenes of nudity and violence.

The main cast in this movie is Jack Aubrey played by Russell Crowe, Stephen Maturin played by Paul Bettany and Thomas Pullings played by James D'Arcy.

The plot of the movie Master And Commander: The Far Side of the World follows the story of Captain Jack Aubrey (played by Russell Crowe) of the British Royal Navy frigate HMS Surprise and the ship's surgeon Stephen Maturin (played by Paul Bettany) as they pursue a powerful French privateer ship, the Acheron, around the coasts of South America and into the dangerous waters of the Galápagos Islands. The ship's mission is to intercept and capture or destroy the enemy vessel but as the chase wears on, the crew of the Surprise faces challenges such as storms, shipwrecks, and battles, as well as the personal conflicts between Aubrey and Maturin. The film explores themes of friendship, duty, and leadership, as well as the harsh realities of war and the human cost of naval conflict.

Master And Commander: The Far Side of the World is a great movie to watch because of

• Historical accuracy : The film is set during the Napoleonic Wars and is based on the historical novels by Patrick O'Brian. The film is known for its accurate depiction of the time period and naval warfare
• Action and adventure : The film features exciting action sequences, including ship-to-ship battles, and also has a sense of adventure as the ship travels through different parts of the world.
• Cinematography : The film has beautiful cinematography and also won an Academy Award for Best Cinematography.

Overall, Master and Commanders: The Far Side of the World is considered a well-made and engaging film that offers a combination of action, adventure, and drama, making it a worthwhile watch for those who enjoy historical dramas and war films.

People can watch the Master And Commander: The Far Side of the World movie on Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Youtube Movies, Google Play Movies, Rakuten TV, Sky Movies, Roku TV, Microsoft Store, and Vudu

5. The Riddle Of The Sands

The best classic sailing movie is The Riddle Of The Sands. We rate this movie 6/10.

The Riddle Of The Sands is 1hr 42 minutes in duration. It was released in March, 1979 and is directed by Tony Maylam.

Riddle Of The Sand is rated PG with parental guidance suggested.

The main cast in this movie is Carruthers played by Michael York, Arthur Davies played by Simon MacCorkindale and Clara Dollmann played by Jenny Agutter.

The plot of the movie The Riddle Of The Sands follows the story of two British sailors, Carruthers (played by Michael York) and Davies (played by Simon MacCorkindale), who while sailing in the Baltic Sea, discover a German plot to invade England. They uncover the scheme while sailing in the Frisian Islands, where they come across a German ship and its crew who are conducting a military survey of the area.

Carruthers and Davies, who are initially dismissed as harmless amateur sailors become suspicious of the German's activities and decide to investigate further. They begin to uncover a plot by the Germans to invade England through the shallow waters of the Frisian Islands. As they dig deeper into the mystery, they find themselves in danger and must race against time to prevent the German invasion and warn the British government of the impending threat.

The film is a combination of espionage, adventure, and thriller and it was praised for its accurate depiction of the period, the action and the tension it creates.

The Riddle Of The Sands is a great movie to watch because:

• Suspenseful plot : The film features a suspenseful plot that keeps the audience engaged and on the edge of their seats as the characters uncover the German plot to invade England
• Accurate depiction of the period : The film is set in the early 20th century and is known for its accurate depiction of the period and its attention to historical detail
• Tension : The film creates a lot of tension as the characters race against time to prevent the German invasion and warn the British government of the impending threat
• Action and adventure : The film features exciting action sequences and a sense of adventure as the characters sail through the Frisian Islands and uncover the German plot

Overall, The Riddle of the Sands (1979) is considered a well-made and engaging film that offers a combination of action, adventure, and suspense, making it a worthwhile watch for those who enjoy espionage thrillers and historical dramas.

People can watch The Riddle Of The Sands movie on YouTube and Daily Motion.

6. Maidentrip

The best documentary sailing movie is Maidentrip. We rate this movie 8.2/10.

The Maidentrip is 1hr 22 minutes in duration. It was released in January, 2014 and is directed by Jillian Schlesinger. It won the best documentary feature at the Annapolis Film Festival.

Maidentrip is rated PG-13 with some minor strong language. The main cast in this movie is Laura Dekker, Kim Dekker, and Dick Dekker.

The plot of the movie Maidentrip follows the journey of 14-year-old Laura Dekker as she becomes the youngest person to sail solo around the world. The film documents her journey from the planning stages, through her departure, and her travels through various ports as well as the various challenges she faces along the way.

The film also explores Laura's backstory and motivations for undertaking such a dangerous and ambitious journey. It shows her life on her boat, Guppy, and the struggles she faces with loneliness, storms, and equipment failures. The film also highlights her interactions with other sailors and the support she receives from her family and friends.

Maidentrip is a coming-of-age story about a young girl who sets out to achieve her dream of sailing around the world alone. It is a story of determination, resilience and the desire to explore the unknown and push boundaries. The film was praised for its intimate portrayal of Laura's journey and for its beautiful cinematography which captures the stunning scenery and the vastness of the ocean.

The Maidentrip is a great movie to watch because:

• Inspirational : The film tells the story of a young girl who sets out to achieve her dream of sailing around the world alone, and her determination and resilience in the face of challenges are an inspiration to many
• Coming-of-age story : The film is a coming-of-age story, that documents the growth and maturity of a young person as she faces challenges and achieves her goal
• Adventure : The film documents a thrilling adventure, as Laura sails through different ports and faces different challenges and it's a great way to experience the adventure and the challenges of solo sailing
• Beautiful cinematography : The film has beautiful cinematography that captures the stunning scenery and the vastness of the ocean making it a visually stunning film
• Educational : The film provides an informative and educational look at the world of sailing and the challenges that come with it
• Personal story : The film is an intimate and personal story that provides a unique perspective on the challenges of solo sailing and the determination required to achieve a dream

Overall, Maidentrip is a well-made and inspiring film that offers a combination of adventure, personal growth and stunning visuals, making it a worthwhile watch for those who enjoy documentaries and adventure stories.

People can watch Maidentrip movie on Amazon Prime Video, Roku TV and Apple TV.

7. Dead Calm

The best thriller sailing movie is Dead Calm. We rate this movie 7.9/10.

Dead Calm is 1hr 36 minutes in duration. It was released in April, 1989 and is directed by Phillip Noyce. It won the AACTA award for best cinematography in 1989.

Dead Calm is rated 15A meaning it is suitable for people aged 15 and over. It has scenes of nudity, violence, and profanity.

The main cast in this movie is Rae Ingram played by Nicole Kidman, Hughie Warriner played by Billy Zane and John Ingram played by Sam Neill.

The plot of the movie Dead Calm revolves around a couple, John and Rae Ingram, who are sailing in the Pacific Ocean. They come across a ship that is drifting with no sign of life on board. They discover that the only survivor is a young man named Hughie Warriner, who tells them that the rest of the crew died from food poisoning. As the couple begins to suspect that Hughie may be lying, they find themselves in a fight for survival against a dangerous and unstable individual. The tension builds as the couple tries to stay alive while also trying to uncover the truth about what happened on the ship

Dead Calm is a great movie to watch because it is considered a classic psychological thriller and it is well-regarded for its intense and suspenseful story. The film is known for its tight pacing and atmosphere which keeps the audience on the edge of their seats throughout the film. The performances by the lead actors, Nicole Kidman, Sam Neill and Billy Zane are also highly praised.

Additionally, the film's cinematography, which captures the beauty and isolation of the open ocean is considered a highlight. If you enjoy psychological thrillers and suspenseful films, Dead Calm is a must-watch.

People can watch the Dead Calm movie on Amazon Prime Video, Roku TV, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store and YouTube Movies.

The Best Sailing Movies Summary

Frequently asked questions about the best sailing movies.

Below are the most commonly asked questions about the top sailing movies.

What Is The Best Overall Sailing Movie?

The best overall sailing movie is Master And Commander: The Far Side of the World. We rate this film 9/10.

What Is The Longest Top Sailing Movie?

The longest top sailing movie is Master And Commander: The Far Side of the World with a duration of 1 hour 22 minutes.

What Is The Shortest Top Sailing Movie?

The shortest top sailing movie is Maidentrip with a duration of 1 hour 22 minutes.

What Top Sailing Movies Are Based On A True Story?

The top sailing movies based on a true story are Maidentrip, Adrift and Kon-Tiki.

What Are The Genres Of The Top Sailing Movies?

The genres of the top sailing movies are thriller, romance, drama, period drama, and adventure.

+20 Best Sailing Movies

A great sailing movie can make your evening enjoyable. What could be better than experiencing the pleasure and positive vibes that sailing provides while sitting at home?

Movies have played a significant role in our lives since since Eadweard Muybridge created the first moving image, “The Horse in motion,” in 1878. We get to enjoy other people’s lives for a while taking a break from our own for a few hours. We may laugh when watching a comedy film with our friends, cry while watching a love film, become temporarily involved in an intense thriller, or become children once more while watching an animated film. While some viewers might love watching scary movies, others could appreciate unwinding with vintage films.

For those who are attracted by the beauty of the water, sailing movies are ideal. Beautiful landscape, the sound of the waves, excitement, romance, camaraderie, bravery, and the willingness to persevere in the face of adversity can all be found along with tragedy, heartbreak, loss, and dread as the sea’s fury destroys the boat.

If you’re excited to watch a sailing movie, check out the top 20 movies below:

Best Sailing Movies

1. the old man and the sea (1958).

Starting with a classic, the movie “ The Old Man and the Sea” is the cinematic adaptation of the same-named book written by Ernest Hemingway in 1951 and published in  1952. 

Both the book and the movie portray the story of Santiago, an  old Cuban fisherman who was struck by bad luck leading him to not be able to catch a fish in 84 days. 

Santiago makes the decision to try fishing in the Gulf Stream waters in an effort to change his luck, and succeeds in hooking a large marlin. After he succeeds in tying the fish to his boat, he must use all of his strength to haul the marlin back to land while defending his catch from the jaws of several sharks.

In his struggle against all odds, the human spirit’s ability to persevere in the face of hardship is revealed.

2. All is Lost (2013)

Another excellent sailing movie that you can watch on Netflix is “All is Lost”. 

This movie is about an experienced sailor (Robert Redford) and about his solo trip in the Indian Ocean. 

Crisis breaks out as his 39-foot yacht collides with a cargo container that was left floating in the water, causing a crisis. After successfully repairing the hull, the sailor finds himself in a dangerous storm that nearly kills him. In the hopes that the ocean currents will move him into a shipping lane where he can be saved by a passing ship, he must endure a number of adversities like the sun, a shortage of life-saving supplies, and sharks.

When everything goes wrong, the sailor must face his own mortality. Captain Ron (1992)

3. Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)

The film, directed by Peter Weir, was nominated for ten Academy Awards and won for best photography and sound editing. Adapted from Patrick O’Brian’s historical novel, this film chronicles the return of adventure to the high seas. The film is filled with battle sequences that will keep you guessing as an egotistical captain pushes his people to their breaking point.

4. Dead Calm (1989)

Another interesting psychological thriller on Netflix is “Dead Calm”. It tells the story of an Australian couple who goes on a sailing trip in the Pacific to forget about a recent tragedy.

They come across a weird boat and a strange man while they are in the middle of the ocean, and the man reports that his crew died of food poisoning. 

They soon discover that the man is not who he seems to be and that the calm before the storm is over.

5. Adrift (2018)

This is the true story of a happy couple formed of Tami Oldham and Richard Sharp who are in love with adventure and gets lost at sea after a hurricane hits their yacht.  After the storm has passed, Tami finds Richard badly injured and must do everything in her power to save herself and the man she loves. 

It appears difficult for sailors to foresee sailing directly into a major hurricane, especially when they do not consult weather apps .

This movies portrays the resilience of human psychic as well as the power of love.

6. Captain Ron (1992)

For the viewers who enjoy comedy movies, this one is a hit! 

The movie is about an important businessman from Chicago (Martin Harvey) who inherits a yacht and takes his family on a month-long sea trip in the Caribbean. He hires Captain Ron to teach him and his family how to control the boat. 

The fun begins when the captain starts doing what he knows, from flirting with the wife and the daughter of Martin Harvey, to teaching his son how to drink and gamble to pushing the boat to the point of breaking apart.

If you love family comedies and beautiful scenery, this movie is for you!

7. Mutiny on the Bounty (1962)

Another classic adventure movie is “Mutiny on the Bounty”, about the ship with the same name that departs in 1787  from Portsmouth. Sailing to Tahiti and load breadfruit was its intended destination.

In order to maintain strict discipline, Captain Bligh will use every means necessary to get there as quickly as possible. Tahiti seems like a paradise for the crew when they get there, a stark contrast to the living misery aboard the ship. Officer Fletcher Christian leads a rebellion on the flight back to England.

8. Turning Tide (2013)

Another one of the 20 best sailing movies of all times is “Turning tide” (Original title “En solitaire”). 

This French production relates the tale of Yann Kermadec, whose hopes and goals come true when he has to to take the place of the DCNS star captain just before the Vendée Globe begins (a round-the-world non-stop single-handed yacht race). Yann, who has been leading the race for several days, must halt to fix a broken rudder. This will hinder him in his journey.

9. Morning Light (2008)

The story portrait in “ Morning Light” is about the true-life adventure of 15 young sailors who train for 6 months in order to participate at the TRANSPAC regatta, the highly coveted open-ocean sailing tournament. 

Aboard the sloop “Morning Light”, the crew will take part in a thrilling 2300-mile race against top competitors and famous sailors.

10. The Perfect Storm (2000)

Filmed in Glouchester, Massachussets, this thrilling adventure movie shows the true story about  the crew aboard the “Andrea Gail” who gets caught in a massive and destructive storm in 1991. They have to do everything they can in order to survive against the fury of the hurricane and return back to shore safely with their catch.

11. Wind (1992)

A cult favorite for sailing enthusiasts about yacht racing filled with beautiful sailing scenes portraying America’s Cup of yachting races. 

This is the story of Will Parker, played by Matthew Modine. who is hired by Cliff Robertson, a self-made millionaire, to captain his crew in the competition.

Will Parker and Kate, two talented sailors, compete for America’s Cup, one of the most prestigious sailing contests. Following their failure, they decide to organize their own syndicate in order to fulfill their goal.

12. White Squall (1996)

“White Squall” is yet another great 90’s movies and it follows a group of high school students who embark the brigantine ship called Albatross for their senior year at sea. They travel to and from South America’s tip by ship. They get to take on responsibility, pick up sailing skills, and mature.

The ship’s captain, Christopher Sheldon, and the 13 teenage guys departed on an eight-month journey. The boys quickly learn about Sheldon’s shifting mentality, jarring tension, and bizarre storms that wreck the boat.

13. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004)

This adventure-comedy follows oceanographer Steve Zissou (Bill Murray) and his crew in their ocean expedition. They have to track and hunt down the ‘jaguar shark’ that apparently ate his partner, Esteban.

This movie is more than a comedy; it is a story about life.

14. Kon-Tiki (2012)

This is the story of the Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl who crossed the Pacific Ocean in a balsawood raft in 1947 with five men to demonstrate that South Americans may have done so in pre-Columbian periods and established on Polynesian islands.

The idea’s inception, the preparations, and the trip’s happenings are all captured in the movie.

15. Maiden (2018)

This documentary tells the story of Tracy Edwards who was the skipper of  the  first all-female crew to ever compete in the Whitbread Round the World Race in 1989.

The screening illustrated the corrosive misogyny that is still present in the sailing community as well as the ocean terrors that sailors must contend with throughout journeys or competitions.

16. Chasing Bubbles (2016)

A free spirit who abandons a normal life to sail across the world, Alex Rust, is the subject of this fascinating documentary. Alex was raised on a farm but in Indiana, he works as a stock trader.

At the age of 25, he makes the decision to leave Chicago, buys the little sailboat Bubbles, and sets out on an incredibly unusual, free-spirited journey. He sails across the world for three years, satiating his voracious curiosity, making wonderful friends, and realizing his long-held desire to be a free soul.

17. 180° South (2010)

Another good navy movie is “ 180° South” that shows the adventures of Jeff Johnson,  who retraces his idols Doug Tompkins and Yvon Chouinard’s historic 1968 trek in Patagonia. Along the way, he surfs the longest wave of his life, gets shipwrecked off Easter Island, and gets ready for a rare ascent of Cerro Corcovado. Jeff’s life changes when he meets Chouinard and Tompkins. These two men, who were originally just motivated by their love of climbing and surfing, have traveled to Patagonia to spend their wealth protecting the environment.

18. Deep Water (2006)

Last but not least, in our selection we mention the sailing movie “Deep Water” which shows the real-life story of British rookie sailor Donald Crowhurst, who competes in the world’s first nonstop boat race, the Golden Globe. Donald puts his house up as collateral to get funding to participate in the race, but he quickly realizes that he is in the wrong because he enters the race unprepared.

The beauty of the surroundings, the sound of the waves, the adventure, the will to live despite all odds, the humorous or romantic moments, and the true stories are what we hope you will experience while watching these incredible sailing movies. In the end, movies are a part of our lives because they depict real-life events in all their shapes and emotions.

19. Kon-Tiki (2012)

Based on the true story of Thor Heyerdahl’s epic 4,300-mile journey across the Pacific Ocean on a balsa wood raft, Kon-Tiki is a thrilling adventure that will inspire you to explore the world and push your limits. With stunning visuals and a gripping story, this film is a must-see for any sailing enthusiast.

Best movies about sailing on HBO and Netflix

The pirates of the caribbean series (2003-2017).

Featuring Johnny Depp as the charismatic pirate Captain Jack Sparrow, the Pirates of the Caribbean series is a swashbuckling adventure that has captured the imaginations of audiences around the world. From the cursed crew of the Black Pearl to the treacherous waters of Davy Jones’ Locker, these films are full of action, humor, and unforgettable characters.

Adrift (2018)

A couple’s life voyage across the open sea. However, a devastating cyclone capsizes their boat, leaving them struggling for their life in the middle of the ocean.

This thriller, based on true events, is one of the best sailing movies on Netflix and HBO Max!

Captain Phillips (2013)

Another sailing movie on Netflix is “Captain Phillips”, telling the true story of Captain Richard Phillips who takes command of the MV Maersk Alabama, an unarmed container ship and departs from the port of Salalah in Oman in the expectation of being attacked by Somali pirates en route to Mombasa, Kenya.

Captain Phillips must use tat and wit to bargain with the pirates and save his crew after they attack the ship.

Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)

Russel Crowe stars in this adventure-filled warship drama telling the story of Captain Jack Aubrey and the British frigate “H.M.S. Surprise”. The action takes place in April 1805 during the Napoleonic Wars.

The current mission for Aubrey and the Surprise is to locate, apprehend, or scuttle a French privateer by the name of Acheron. To broaden Napoleon’s scope of the wars, the Acheron is currently in the Atlantic off South America and sailing toward the Pacific. This assignment will be challenging because the Surprise is at a disadvantage because the Acheron is a bigger and quicker ship.

Life of Pi (2012)

After surviving a shipwreck, the zookeeper’s kid is apprehended on a boat with a Bengal tiger. This Oscar-winning picture was directed by Ang Lee.

Deep Water (2006)

The narrative of the first round-the-world boat race is told in this documentary. The goal is to find out how much sailors paid for this exhausting race.

Maidentrip (2013)

This sailing film tells the narrative of Laura Dekker, a 14-year-old girl who dreams of becoming the youngest person to sail around the world alone.

Last Words on Best Sailing Movies

In conclusion, sailing movies offer a unique blend of adventure, drama, and stunning visuals that can transport you to the high seas. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or simply enjoying a good movie, there is something for everyone on this list of the best sailing movies.

Did you enjoy this post about the best sailing movies? Share it with your friends who might be interested.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Cast & crew
• User reviews

Romance and adventure happen during the America's Cup series of yachting races. Romance and adventure happen during the America's Cup series of yachting races. Romance and adventure happen during the America's Cup series of yachting races.

• Carroll Ballard
• Jeff Benjamin
• Roger Vaughan
• Kimball Livingston
• Matthew Modine
• Jennifer Grey
• Cliff Robertson
• 44 User reviews
• 6 Critic reviews
• 57 Metascore

• Will Parker

• Morgan Weld

• Jack Neville

• Abigail Weld

• Charley Moore
• T.V. Commentator

• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

More like this

Did you know

• Trivia Jennifer Grey had her nose surgically altered after the film wrapped. When several shots needed to be re-taken, you can see an obvious change in her appearance.
• Goofs Early in the film, an American skipper is shown admiring and touching a "winged keel" prior to America losing the America's Cup in 1983. However, the "winged keel" design was a fiercely guarded secret, only known to select Australians until they revealed its design after their historic 1983 America's Cup victory. There was no way an American skipper knew of its design prior to 1983 and there were certainly no "winged keel" yachts in existence in the US prior to 1983.

Will : We're going to need as much waterline as we can get.

Joe : I've factored in the average weather in that part of Australia over the last 20 years. We've got to play the percentages.

Will : You mean compromise?

Joe : Yeah, of course. You always get to a point where you have to stop torturing yourself and play the percentages. You're afraid of committing yourself, you have the desire for perfection.

Will : What's wrong with perfection?

Joe : Nothing, if you're God, and you're prepared to wait 500 million years for it to evole. But we have to start building this boat next week.

• Connections Featured in Siskel & Ebert: Sneakers/Where the Day Takes You/Husbands and Wives/Wind/Swoon (1992)
• Soundtracks Madame Butterfly Written by Giacomo Puccini Sung by Veronika Kincses (as Veronika Kincscs) and Peter Dvorský Accompanied by Magyar Állami Operaház Énekkara és Zenekara (as The Hungarian State Opera Chamber Chorus and Orchestra) ( Giuseppe Patanè (as Guiseppe Patane), Conductor) Courtesy of Hungaroton Records and Qualiton Imports, Ltd.

User reviews 44

• Jul 15, 2000
• How long is Wind? Powered by Alexa
• September 11, 1992 (United States)
• United States
• The Elms, 367 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island, USA (Morgan Weld's mansion)
• American Zoetrope
• See more company credits at IMDbPro
• $29,000,000 (estimated)
• Sep 13, 1992

Technical specs

• Runtime 2 hours 6 minutes

Related news

Contribute to this page.

• See more gaps
• Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Recently viewed

• Top 10 Boat Movies: Best Sailing Films to Watch
• Sailing Hub
• Sailing Tips

Gearing up for your summer holiday? Or maybe you're looking for inspiration for your next sailing trip? Get in the mood with one of our favorite sailing flicks—from adventure to comedy to romance, these boat movies will have you hankering for a few weeks at sea. 

Here are our top ten picks for movies about sailing:

1. 180° South (2010)

2. wind (1992), 3. captain ron (1992), 4. morning light (2008), 5. the dove (1974), 6. moby dick (1956), 7. wild caribbean (2007), 8. maidentrip (2013), 9. the new swiss family robinson (1998), 10. the love boat (1977-1987).

Have adventure on the mind? Kick off a movie marathon with this documentary on the epic 1968 journey of Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkins. 

Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and his best friend Tompkins took off on a whirlwind sailing journey to, yes, Patagonia in 1968. Along the way, they do some serious surfing but also discover the beauty of experiencing pure, raw nature. In this documentary, one of Chouinard's fans, Jeff Johnson, retraces the duo's steps to discover the thrill of sailing in nature for himself. 

For those looking for some sporty action, the 1992 flick is one of the most exciting of yacht movies. 

After losing the America's Cup (i.e., the biggest sailing race in the world), Matthew Modine makes it his ambition to win back the coveted title. Also following Modine's romance with Kate Bass, an aeronautical engineering graduate student, this boat movie is equal parts sporty and romantic—a one-two punch for a good movie night. 

Watch the trailer!

1992 was the year of the movies about boating! 

Also this year, Kurt Russell and Martin Short starred in Captain Ron , a comedy adventure about a man from Chicago who inherits an old yacht. The flick follows Short’s character, Martin Harvey, as he takes his wife and children to the Caribbean for a sailing adventure—which quickly turns into more than Harvey bargained for with Captain Ron (Russell) at the helm. 

Can’t get enough racing action? Neither can we. 

For a different twist on a movie about ships, try Morning Light . This documentary follows fifteen young sailors as they embark on six months of intensive training. Their goal? Race a high-performance 52-foot sloop in the Transpacific Yacht Race. From Hawaii to the high seas to the daring competition against the world's top professionals, this is one of the boat movies you don't want to miss. 

When it comes to movies about boating, real life is truly often more exciting than fiction. 

This 1974 film recounts the true story of 16-year-old Robin Lee Graham who embarks on a solo trip around the world in The Dove , his 23-foot sloop. Along the way, he meets a young woman who is on her own journey around the globe. With a dramatic biography that needs no embellishment, this film follows the adventures of Graham in life and love as he sails around the world from adolescence to adulthood.

You can't talk about boat movies without mentioning perhaps the most classic of them all: Moby Dick . 

In this legendary tale, the eminent Gregory Peck stars as Captain Ahab, an old fishing captain obsessed with hunting down and killing the white whale who robbed him of his leg years ago. If you want to take a break from the comedies and romantic yacht movies, Moby Dick is one of the renowned classics that will surely make you feel the thrill of the sea. 

Daydreaming about a holiday to the Caribbean? 

Us, too. That's why we have yachts available for charter across the islands—from Antigua to St. Lucia to Martinique. Before setting sail, get a taste of the Wild Caribbean with this four-part documentary series on the Caribbean islands and sea. Talk about some major travel inspiration! 

Check it out!  

For those who can't get enough of sailing documentaries, this is one of the movies about sailing you must add to your list. 

Maidentrip follows Laura Dekker as she sets out to become the youngest person ever to sail around the world alone—at the age of 14. The documentary takes us back before the start of her two-year voyage, from her early childhood sailing in New Zealand to life preparing for her epic feat. 

If you're planning a sailing holiday for the family, there's no better way to get the kids excited for the upcoming travel than with this boat movie. 

This cult classic follows Angelino Jack Robinson as he sails with his family from Hong Kong to Sydnery. From pirates to hidden treasure and more, this is one of the best sailing movies for families. While a private yacht charter won't get you tangled up with wild pirate chases and searches for buried treasure, this family film will certainly bring out the adventurer in you before your own sailing trip. 

Nautical movies not enough for you? If you're looking for a great binge watching session to satisfy your craving for sailing, try The Love Boat . 

This classic TV show follows the comedies, romances, and adventures of the passengers and crew of the cruise ship, Pacific Princess. Starring Fred Grandy, Bernie Kopell, Ted Lange, Lauren Tewes, and Gavin MacLeod, this retro sitcom was based off of Jeraldine Saunder's novel, which was inspired by her years working as a cruise ship hostess. 

Have these boat movies left you with a serious craving for the sea? 

If you want to live your life like you're the hero in your own movie, charter a yacht this year . Our yacht charter experts can make your favorite movie a real-life memory.

Get a free & non-binding quote

The Top 12 Best Sailing Movies of All Time

Need a holiday? Get a free and personalised offer from us!

We love all things sailing, especially movies. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 12 best sailing movies of all time. Whether it’s brutal battles between warships or a dramatic tale of man vs sea, we’ve got it covered. Keep reading below to be inspired for your next movie night or when you just can’t seem to get off of dry land. Looking to be more than inspired? Book your next sailing holiday with Zizoo! But for now, keep reading!

1 2 . The Life Aquatic

This Wes Anderson classic is one of our favourite films at Zizoo! Did you know our name is actually inspired by Steve Zissou? He is the character adaptation of Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the French oceanographer, conservationist, filmmaker, scientist, and author. The movie follows the adventure of Steve Zissou (Bill Murray), who sets out on an oceanic mission to document the destruction of the ‘jaguar shark’ that ate his partner, Esteban. It’s artsy, witty, animated, and it has an amazing soundtrack. In short, what more could you ask for in a sailing movie?

Live the life aquatic, check out our Gulet charter !

1 1 . Captain Ron

Captain Ron follows the misadventures of the titular character portrayed by Kurt Russell, who is hired by an upper-middle class father, Martin Harvey, and his family to guide their yacht through the Caribbean. The voyage isn’t as straightforward as the family expects it to be, as Captain Ron knows only how to steer the family into trouble. The movie is mixture of adventure, madness and the importance of family. While you wouldn’t want to be involved in many parts of the boat ride, others seem so fun that you’d like to leave everything behind for a while and simply jump on a boat.

10. White Squall

Based on a true story, this movie follows a group of school boys, who are educated on discipline and a hard work ethic aboard a ship by a strong-willed skipper. The ship eventually sets sail, but things take a violent turn when they encounter a white squall storm. The boys must then use everything that the skipper has taught them to try and survive the ordeal. So the big question is: Will they make it out safely?

9. Deep Water

Deep Water is a critically acclaimed documentary telling the story of the disastrous 1968 round-the-world yacht race. Battling threatening seas and psychological ruin, amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst attempts a nine-month, non-stop circumnavigation of the globe. To summarize, the results are terrifying. It is not simply a documentary about a sailor who didn’t have the experience needed to go on a voyage such as the one Crowhurst participated in, but it explores the limits of human perseverance.

Don’t be afraid of the seas, check out our amazing sailboat rental selection!

8. The African Queen

The African Queen is a small boat adventure film released in 1951. Humphrey Bogart won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in the film. Together with his co-star, Katherine Hepburn, they lead us through the African jungle, navigating through the battles of WWI. In this film, Bogart plays a rough and drunken riverboat captain, which is perfectly juxtaposed by Hepburn who is a posh, strait-laced missionary. Of course you can imagine how they’re chemistry plays out in the movie.. but see for yourself!

Prepare for your first adventure at sea with our first-timer sailing checklist !

7. Between Home

Between Home is a moving and poetic adventure documentary about Nick Jaffe, an amateur sailor. During the film, he attempts a solo oceanic journey from Europe to his native Australia. He chronicles his three-year transformation from inexperienced sailor to expert. Through scenes filmed both onboard and on dry land, we watch him battle the sea, wind, and severe isolation as he follows his dreams. He is not a wealthy man embarking on an adventure, but rather ordinary and with limited means. While watching the documentary, you will be rooting for him more than once in times of trouble.

Follow your dreams, check out the best sailing destinations around the globe!

6. Dead Calm

Dead Calm stars Nicole Kidman, Sam Neill, Billy Zane, and a beautiful 60 ft ketch. The film is a thriller that is sure to get your blood pumping. It was filmed almost entirely at sea in the Whitsundays Islands of Australia. The combination of dangerous sailing conditions, isolation, and the threat of a villain onboard creates a fantastic thriller film that will haunt you for a few days after watching it.

Sailing down under can be thrilling, check out all of our boat rental in Australia !

5. Lifeboat

Lifeboat is a classic Alfred Hitchcock film. During WWII, in the middle of the Atlantic, a ship and a German U-boat clash and destroy each other. The group of five survivors find refuge in a lifeboat. However, trouble starts when they rescue a survivor who is in the opposition. This is a nail-biting film you don’t want to miss.

If Hitchcock doesn’t dissuade you, then read our guide to sailing the high seas !

4. Kon-Tiki

Filmed on the island of Malta, Kon-Tiki is a historical drama based on the story of Thor Heyerdahl and his 1947 Kon-Tiki exploration expedition. It is the first time a Norwegian film has been nominated for both an Oscar and a Golden Globe Award. Still today, it is the highest grossing film in Norway. In the movie, Thor Heyerdahl sets out on his epic journey to cross the Pacific Ocean. During the course of his trip, he hopes to prove that South Americans could settle in Polynesia during pre-Columbian times. The dramatic events that follow are gripping!

Catamarans have come a long way, check out some of our best Catamaran rental deals ! 

3. Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World

Directed by the talented Peter Wier, Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World  tells a dramatic story set during the Napoleonic wars. Russell Crowe plays an arrogant captain who pushes his ship and crew to their limits while attempting to capture a French warship. The action-packed battle scenes keep us on the edge of our seats. Gripping scenes of ships and the sea have us in awe. During the film, we learn about the stories of the men on the ship and their struggle to make it through alive. It is more than a story on battles on the sea, but an insight into human psychology in terms of crisis and struggle.

No need to struggle at sea! Find yourself a crewed motor boat for your next holiday.

Wind tells the story of Will Parker, a sailor who tragically loses the America’s Cup race. The race is considered the world’s biggest sailing prize. After the loss, he decides to form his own crew to reclaim the prize. A mix of both adventure and romance, it’s inspired by the real events of the 1983 America’s Cup. The cast is comprised of real sailors, making the sailing scenes incredibly realistic. So, if you’re looking for some serious sailing battles this movie is for you.

Check out our boats in one of the best locations to destress and enjoy romantic beaches– boat rental in the Caribbean.  

1. All is Lost

Lastly, All is Lost stars Robert Redford as a solo sailor who meets disastrous circumstances out at sea. It is then that he has a tiring battle fighting for his life. Man-and-boat-against-the-sea is a classic theme in sailing movies, and Redford and director J.C. Chandor do just that. Redford ends up in a storm that almost destroys his little boat and leaves him only with the choice of staying or going out on a little rubber raft to save his life. It is a quiet film, sometimes difficult to watch, but absolutely worth it. The storyline is a simple yet frightening tale of a man alone on the water.

Solo sailors out there might want to consider taking your dog on a boat

Our list of the top 12 best sailing movies of all time is sure to inspire the captain in everyone. Have we missed one of your favourites? Let us know in the comments below. We’d loved to hear what you’re watching next. Feeling extra adventurous? Book a boat holiday today with Zizoo. You can be your very own lead starring in the next best sailing movie of all time.

For more information about all things nautical, check out our sailing routes .

Top List of Helpful Sailing Websites for Beginners

The 4 best party destinations in croatia, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

SailGP Christchurch: Sir Russell Coutts casts doubt on return to New Zealand after dolphin-enforced cancellation

Christopher Reive

Share this article

Sir Russell Coutts says SailGP will have to have a “pretty in-depth discussion” about the viability of another event in New Zealand after racing was cancelled on Lyttelton Harbour on Saturday.

Dolphin sightings on the racecourse saw proceedings brought to a halt just as the teams were preparing to get in position for the weekend’s first race . The 10 crews sat idly by on their F50s for about 90 minutes before the day’s schedule was called off.

It’s the second time in as many SailGP events in the harbour that dolphin sightings caused a delay to competition. In 2023, the first day’s racing was delayed for the same reason, but was ultimately able to get under way and the event was completed without further issues.

In line with SailGP protocol, racing is delayed to allow marine life to pass through safely but unfortunately on Saturday, the dolphin did not move outside the racecourse area and racing could not take place. Coutts says the league has never had an incident involving an aquatic animal in 35 events around the world.

Speaking to Newstalk ZB’s Jason Pine, Coutts said the message from the teams after Saturday’s events was that “this isn’t working”.

“The sailors and the team principals, I’ve had a lot of feedback from them overnight. I think you can guess what the response has been. This probably won’t only affect Christchurch, but it might also affect future events in New Zealand,” Coutts said.

“Obviously, the international teams are a huge part of this and we’ll have to have a pretty in-depth discussion about the viability going forward.

“The crowd and the scene yesterday was amazing. It really is incredible. An incredible venue, an incredible city, and I’m just disappointed for the people here.”

SailGP was not supposed to return to Christchurch again until 2025, however the unavailability of land at Auckland’s Wynyard Point for use as a spectator zone saw that event axed late last year and, because of the short notice, returning south was the only viable option. Should the league return, Wellington, Auckland and Queenstown are among potential candidates to host a future event.

The Lyttelton Harbour is part of the Banks Peninsula Marine Mammal Sanctuary, which contains a number of internationally vulnerable marine species, such as the Hector’s dolphin. The Department of Conservation lists the Hector’s dolphin as a nationally vulnerable species. The World Wildlife Fund lists it as an endangered species.

In a statement, Coutts said the league had to observe several additional rules and restrictions imposed by local authorities and aired his frustration at the situation.

“In addition to our normal marine mammal protocols, SailGP has had this extreme marine mammal management plan forced upon us in Lyttelton, demanded by the Department of Conservation [DoC], Ecan [Environment Canterbury] and Ngāti Wheke for this event. Otherwise, SailGP would not be permitted to race. Other harbour users, including commercial users, are not subject to such protocols,” Coutts said.

He said “unrequired services” enforced by DoC, Ecan and the Lyttelton Port Company had added approximately $300,000 to the cost of holding the event, with the expenses of about $78,000 for the services of 11 dolphin observers on top of that.

He also criticised the harbourmaster for being “extremely restrictive” in prohibiting practice for the international teams, which is desperately needed.

In SailGP, teams do not manage their own boats outside of race week. The boats go from location to location, and the teams are lucky to get a couple of days of practice before launching into racing, which makes development on the foiling catamarans tricky.

Addressing the event being unable to go ahead on Saturday, DoC deputy director of general operations Henry Weston noted that in New Zealand, the Marine Mammals Protection Act and Marine Mammals Protection Regulations direct how vessels must behave around marine mammals and says it is illegal to harass or disturb them.

“All vessels and people involved in the SailGP event, including any support boats or spectators, must abide by this legislation. It is a legal requirement. People controlling vessels who encounter a dolphin or other marine mammal must travel no faster than idle/no wake speed if within 300 metres of a dolphin, and do not herd, harass or obstruct marine mammals or cut through groups,” Weston said.

“SailGP has chosen to hold its event in a marine mammal sanctuary that was established for the protection of Hector’s dolphins. This decision to hold the event there was made in the full knowledge that protection of the dolphins from the impact of boats will be paramount.

“In the lead-up, DoC provided feedback and advice on the race organisers’ marine mammal management plan, working closely with Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke, Rāpaki. Our feedback focused on technical advice ensuring the plan reflected the Marine Mammals Protection Act and Regulations and advocating for the safety of marine mammals.”

Weston said the marine mammal management plan was developed by and belonged to the race organisers and DoC did not have a role in implementing it, but did have staff at the event prepared to respond if an incident involving a marine mammal was to occur.

“At this time of year, mothers and calves are present in the harbour and calves have been seen on the course this weekend. Newborn calves and young animals are vulnerable to boat strike as they are less aware of risk, spend more time on the surface and dive more slowly than mature dolphins,” Weston added.

“We recognise the importance of events to the region and acknowledge yesterday’s cancellation would have been disappointing for spectators and racers.”

Otago University zoology professor emeritus Liz Slooten told RNZ it was normal for Hector’s dolphins to be around the harbour at this time of year and having a race delayed was “totally predictable”.

Two of her colleagues from Otago University were on an expert panel discussing the issue ahead of last year’s race.

“They already said, ‘look, if you absolutely must do it in Lyttelton Harbour then you should do it in the middle of winter’.”

Slooten said she was pleased to hear Coutts wanted to move the event to Wellington or Queenstown next year.

It was a poor decision from Christchurch officials to host the races, she said.

“This just seems to be a really bad bet, especially because these dolphins are actually very important economically to the Canterbury region.

“There’s a lot of dolphin tourism on Akaroa Harbour. Really you don’t want to kill the goose that laid the golden egg.”

Sir Russell Coutts’ full statement on SailGP Christchurch

SailGP operates all over the world, and no doubt there are marine mammals in the water in all of the locations we race. We’ve never had an incident in 35 events.

Our people and our athletes care deeply about marine conservation. In addition to our normal marine mammal protocols, SailGP has had this extreme marine mammal management plan forced upon us in Lyttelton, demanded by the Department of Conservation, Ecan and Ngāti Wheke for this event. Otherwise, SailGP would not be permitted to race. Other harbour users, including commercial users, are not subject to such protocols.

In particular, Guy Harris, the harbourmaster, has been extremely restrictive in prohibiting practice for our international teams, including this morning where they were desperately seeking his approval to allow them much-needed time on the water. He refused without giving any reasons. Earlier in the week, he also stated to me that because SailGP is a commercial entity, other non-commercial entities and views have priority.

Unfortunately yesterday was another example of there being almost no balance in the decision-making - another example of New Zealand being handcuffed by unprecedented layers of bureaucracy and red tape.

I find it astonishing the amount of influence iwi have over the authorities here in New Zealand. The Department of Conservation would not allow racing in Lyttelton unless SailGP had approval from the iwi. I suspect most New Zealanders don’t realise the full implications of such a stance.

It’s been my experience throughout my long career connected with the ocean that dolphins are extremely intelligent mammals and are inherently aware of boats around them. The Hector’s dolphin is not an endangered species as Otago university professor Liz Slooten recently claimed. That was a lie.

Of course, with any decision like this, there needs to be a balance. For example, one could say that because there is a chance of a road death that we shouldn’t be allowed to drive on the roads. I suspect most people would conclude that such a stance would be far too extreme and not practical. Inherently, as a society we accept an element of risk in our daily lives.

The Department of Conservation, Ecan and Lyttelton Port Company have enforced services upon SailGP - (which is an international company with its main offices in London and New York) - that are not required and not demanded anywhere else in the world, yet are nevertheless imposed as a condition for allowing the races to proceed in Lyttelton. The costs from those unrequired services total approximately $300k. In addition to that, there are 11 so-called expert dolphin observers that are being paid... $600 per day each, plus their expenses in a programme that totals $78,000.

It was demanded that those dolphin observers be on site from Thursday onwards, despite the harbourmaster reducing practice on that day to around 11 minutes of sailing. These are costs and services that SailGP doesn’t face anywhere else in the world. In conducting this event, SailGP alone is spending approximately... $5.5million the local economy.

Of course our international teams also go to considerable effort and expense to send their teams to New Zealand to compete and it’s fair to say that they are also not happy with the way this programme is being managed.

SailGP distributes live broadcast to 212 territories worldwide and many of those broadcasters including CBS in the US turned the feed off well before the conclusion of the live broadcast window.

There are a lot of considerations in managing an event like this yet almost none of those are not being properly considered by the environmental and harbour authorities here in Christchurch.

The fact is almost all of the people here in Christchurch are incredibly supportive and positive. I’d like to thank all of those people who have made us feel so welcome. I feel sorry for the fans, local businesses and all those people that are so proud of this incredible city that the event has been so disrupted. Let’s hope we finish with some great racing today.

Christopher Reive joined the Herald sports team in 2017, bringing the same versatility to his coverage as he does to his sports viewing habits.

Latest from Sailing

'Best day in SailGP': Black Foils win in Christchurch

A wild weekend has come to a crowd-pleasing conclusion for home fans.

Dolphins cause opening day of SailGP Christchurch to be called off

'I'd never been in a sailboat': How ABs son earned America's Cup call-up

Luca Kirwan on joining Luna Rossa for the America's Cup

Kids missing school to feed families