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All 19 sinbad the sailor movies, ranked worst to best.

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Disney Is Adapting 1001 Nights Into An Action Fantasy/Sci-Fi Movie

New nicole kidman romance creates the weirdest trend of her 41-year movie career, new remake of kurt russell thriller continues a glen powell trend i hope he moves away from.

• Sinbad adaptations vary in quality and reception, from cult classics like "The 7th Voyage of Sinbad" to box office bombs like "Legend of the Seven Seas".
• The portrayal of Sinbad ranges from ancient to modern, with attempts at Harryhausen homages that sometimes fall flat with audiences.
• Some adaptations, like the Sinbad Anime Film Series, stay true to the original story while others, like "Son of Sinbad," focus more on Hollywood glamour.

The story of Sinbad has been adapted multiple times over the years, but some versions rank higher than others, whether on Rotten Tomatoes or by audience opinion. Whether it's a Japanese anime film series or an American film from the 1980s, movies about the famous sailor have retold his story numerous times. Many of the stories have been recognized for their value, such as the Ray Harryhausen cult classics, while others have slowly faded into obscurity.

Unlike other real-life pirates and sailors, Sinbad the Sailor is a fictional character who has been adapted into many different versions of the story. In the story from 1001 Arabian Nights , Sinbad is a poor sailor who complains to God about how the rich live easily and he must suffer. One of the rich overhears and sends a porter (also Sinbad) who tells the sailor Sinbad about the time the porter went on seven voyages to find his wealth.

Disney is returning to the world of 1001 Nights with a brand-new feature film that aims to explore the classic Middle Eastern story collection.

19 The 7 Adventures of Sinbad (2010)

Starring: patrick muldoon (adrian sinbad), bo svenson (simon magnusson).

The modern-day setting for the film is confusing and the cultural appropriation of the natives portrayed in the film is insulting to the story of Sinbad.

The lowest-ranking movie on this list, this B-movie Sinbad adaptation boasts only a 5% rating on Rotten Tomatoes , and for plenty of good reasons. Unlike other versions of the classic tale, the story attempts to set Sinbad's story in the modern day. Unfortunately, it does not work at all for the movie and it failed spectacularly. The modern-day setting for the film is confusing and the cultural appropriation of the natives portrayed in the film is insulting to the story of Sinbad.

18 Adventures of Sinbad the Sailor (1974)

Starring: jan tríska (the narrator).

Pohádky tisíce a jedné noci or T he Adventures of Sinbad the Sailor in English is an interesting film to watch. Originally released as a series of shorts, the story is true to the Sinbad tale and uses the Persian style of storytelling in which the animation is styled like paper cutouts. Unfortunately, the movie only has one version available on YouTube and has no subtitles available, which means that audiences may spend more time translating than actually enjoying the story.

17 Sinbad: The Fifth Voyage (2014)

Starring: patrick stewart (narrator), sharon sean solomon (sinbad), said faraj (the deev).

This film had lots of bad reviews from audiences but was reasonably well-liked by the critics. Unfortunately, not even Patrick Stewart's narration was enough for this movie to be any good. Sinbad: The Fifth Voyage tries to emulate the Ray Harryhausen Sinbad films, and it does not work. The acting is sub-par, which affects the entire movie and makes it look like a rip-off version of Harryhausen, complete with weird action sequences fighting an eight-armed monster and saving a stereotypical princess in distress.

16 Sindbad Alibaba & Aladdin (1965)

Starring: pradeep kumar (sindbad), agha (ali baba), bhagwan (aladdin).

While the movie itself has amazing costumes and songs, it tries to stay as close to the original story as possible.

This movie is an interesting version of the classic story in that Sinbad's name is spelled Sindbad and it also features Aladdin from the classic tale One Thousand and One Arabian Nights. While the movie itself has amazing costumes and songs, it tries to stay as close to the original story as possible. Unfortunately, it is difficult to understand storywise and is a bit of a visual mess. The only version of the film is on YouTube and it is grainy with background noise. According to one YouTuber, the translated subtitles are also out of sync, making it hard to understand what is going on.

15 Son of Sinbad (1955)

Starring: dale robertson (sinbad), sally forrest (ameer), vincent price (omar khayyám), lili st. cyr (nerissa).

Starring Vincent Price and Dale Robertson, this version of Sinbad is visually beautiful and is considered to be a classic. Due to issues with the Hays Production Code, Son of Sinbad wasn't released until 1955 (via AFI ). While there are some interesting actors attached to the movie, like Dale Robertson and Vincent Price, the focus is primarily on the women involved in the movie and making them as sexualized as possible. This takes away from the original story and just doesn't work for the film, making it more of a Hollywood sex symbol movie than an adventure starring Sinbad.

14 Captain Sindbad (1963)

Starring: guy williams (sindbad), heidi brühl (princess jana), pedro armendáriz (el kerim), abraham sofaer (galgo).

While the plot is very good and works well for the scene, the special effects are not that great and look very grainy.

This version of the Sinbad story is an interesting one as it focuses a lot on swashbuckler action that was popular in the 1960s. Like some of the movies on this list, it is a Harryhausen wannabe complete with damsels in distress and one of Hollywood's top actors at the time. While the plot is very good and works well for the scene, the special effects are not that great and look very grainy. Having played the swashbuckling Zorro in Disney's Zorro , Williams' professional fencing skills are second to none and it is one of the few saving graces in the film.

13 Sinbad and the Minotaur (2011)

Starring: manu bennett (sinbad), holly brisley (tara), steven grives (al jibbar).

Another B-movie, Sinbad and the Minotaur, ranks a bit higher on the list due to the predictable action sequences and acting that is a bit over-the-top . The film combines the stories of Sinbad with the Greek legend of the Minotaur. It is one of those films that is known being so bad to the point of being funny and it was not well-received by audiences when it came out in 2011. There are no big names attached to the movie, and it is a bit on the strange side of B movies.

12 Sinbad of the Seven Seas (1989)

Starring: lou ferrigno (sinbad), john steiner (jaffar), prince ali (roland wybenga).

While this film was universally panned when it came out in 1989 due to the low production budget and cheesy acting, it has since become a cult classic. With an Indiana Jones vibe in the trailer and the movie as a whole, there's a heavy focus on the plot as the muscular Sinbad saves the damsel in distress. Despite the bad reviews and predictable acting, Sinbad of the Seven Seas is one of those movies that is so bad that it's funny, similar to the Sharknado film series.

11 Sinbad: Beyond the Veil of Mists (2000)

Starring: brendan fraser (sinbad), john rhys-davies (king chandra), jennifer hale (princess serena), leonard nimoy (baraka), mark hamill (captain of the guards).

Sinbad: Beyond the Veil of Mists is one of the few movies that is animated and is not very well known. The 2000 film was billed as one of the first animated movies using 3-D motion capture. It was not well-received at the box office, but has several famous names attached, including Brendan Fraser who is the title character and Star Wars' Mark Hamill. The animation is on the clunky side, and it can remind audiences of the popular video game, The Sims . Overall, the story is well done, and the characters make it a film to watch for animation fans.

10 Ali Baba and the Seven Saracens (1964)

Starring: gordon mitchell (omar), dan harrison (sindbad/ali baba), bella cortez (princess fatima).

Known as Simbad contro i sette saraceni in Italy, this film is not that well known and only has one review on Rotten Tomatoes . The movie is a bit on the grainy side with background static throughout, but it is a good movie with action sequences and romance. Sinbad is not the main star but a side character, while an evil warlord is the focus of the film. Like most of the Sinbad movies on this list, there is a damsel in distress, but it works well for the movie and the action sequences are interesting to watch.

9 Sinbad (1992)

Starring: cam clarke (sinbad), tony ail, gregg berger (captain chung), corey burton (prince 1).

Sinbad may be an adaptation of the original story, and it is one of the shorter movies on this list, at only 50 minutes long. A direct-to-video film, it was distributed as part of the now-defunct GoodTimes Home Video. The 1992 animated film has plenty of good-hearted moments and is good for children who are learning about Sinbad's story for the first time. For music fans, it also has a catchy theme song with plenty of classical music mixed in, including "A Night On Bald Mountain" during Sinbad's first encounter with the sea monster.

8 Sinbad and the Caliph of Baghdad (1973)

Starring: robert malcolm (sinbad), sonia wilson (sherazade), luigi bonos as firùz, arturo dominici (visir).

Known as Simbad e il califfo di Bagdad in Italian, this version of Sinbad was director Pietro Francisci's final film before he died in 1977 . It is an interesting take on the classic tale since Sherazade, the wife of the king from the original Arabian Nights story, has a starring role in the film. There is not much known about the film itself apart from what is on YouTube, but the action sequences on the film are well-done and the costumes are accurate for the time that Sinbad lived in.

7 Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas (2003)

Starring: brad pitt (sinbad), catherine zeta-jones (princess marina), michelle pfeiffer (eris), joseph fiennes (prince proteus of syracuse).

Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas had mixed reviews from critics on the animation style and voice acting, but otherwise was a box office bomb. Despite all that, it is a fun take on Sinbad's story and has many famous faces in the voice cast, including Brad Pitt as Sinbad and Catherine Zeta-Jones starring as Sinbad's love interest, Marina. While it may not be the most successful film of Sinbad's story, the villain Eris is a highlight in the film, as she is one of the most intelligent Dreamworks villains .

6 Arabian Nights (1942)

Starring: shemp howard (sinbad), jon hall (haroun-al-raschid), maria montez (scheherazade), john qualen (aladdin).

Unlike other Sinbad movies on this list, 1942's Arabian Nights has no monsters or supernatural creatures in the film. Focusing primarily on the action sequences, this film was a huge success with audiences when it came out. Despite some mixed reviews from critics on the confusing story, Maria Montez as Scheherazade plays a crucial role in the film. While Sinbad does not have a starring role in the film, Arabain Nights is a unique take on the classic story and the focus on action and costumes make it a fun one to watch.

Based out of India, The Adventures of Sinbad has been relatively well-received by critics and some of the characters may remind audiences of Disney's 1992 classic Aladdin . There is not much known about the movie apart from the trailer, and it is not available online for U.S. audiences yet. The trailer has a lot of interesting premises and leaves audiences hopeful that an international release date will come soon.

5 Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger (1977)

Starring: patrick wayne (sinbad), taryn power (dione), margaret whiting (zenobia), jane seymour (farah), patrick troughton (melanthius).

A classic by Ray Harryhausen, this film is the final one of the Harryhausen Sinbad movies that came out in the late 1950s and late 1970s. True to his style, Harryhausen's special effects come into play and boast some interesting action sequences with plenty of heart. While some critics were not too thrilled with the acting, others agreed that the film is a Harryhausen classic and should be enjoyed. The film is also one of the few on this list that has a female villain played by popular '40s singer Margaret Whiting.

4 Sinbad Anime Film Series (2016)

Starring: tomo muranaka (sinbad), naomi nagasawa (ali), momoko tanabe (sana), hiroko yakushimaru (latifa), takeshi kaga (captain razzak).

Released to celebrate Nippon Animation's 40th anniversary in 2016, this series of films was well-received by critics and pays direct homage to Sinbad's original story. Once again, this film series ages Sinbad down to being a young boy and keeps it family-friendly to appeal to kids. According to Rebecca Silverman from The Anime News Network , it is a good story despite its bittersweet ending has two sets of solid voice actors and is "enjoyable at any age".

3 Sinbad the Sailor (1947)

Starring douglas fairbanks jr. (sinbad), maureen o'hara (shireen), walter slezak (melik), anthony quinn (emir), mike mazurki (yusuf).

With Douglas Fairbanks Jr. starring in the title role, 1947's Sinbad the Sailor was a mixed success with audiences when it came out, with critics praising Fairbanks' action sequences but being left unsure of the story. The film boasts a high rating of 80% on Rotten Tomatoes and has plenty of action sequences that make it a film worth watching. Fairbanks' chemistry with Maureen O'Hara makes it worthwhile and is a fun classic for audiences who like old swashbuckling movies from the 1940s.

2 The 7th Voyage of Sinbad (1958)

Starring kerwin mathews (sinbad), kathryn grant (princess parisa), richard eyer (barani the genie), torin thatcher (sokurah).

Considered to be one of the best Sinbad films made , this Ray Harryhausen film has a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and earned a place in the National Film Registry in 2008 (via LOC ). The 7th Voyage of Sinbad did well upon its release in 1958, making millions at the box office, and is still well-liked by modern-day critics. The film is best known for the action sequence where Sinbad goes up against the Cyclops and has been credited as being the inspiration for multiple filmmakers, including George Lucas.

1 The Golden Voyage of Sinbad (1973)

Starring: john phillip law (sinbad), caroline munro (margiana), tom baker (prince koura).

This classic Ray Harryhausen story is another box office hit and the second of the three Harryhausen Sinbad movies. With a good cast led by John Phillip Law, this version of Sinbad's story is one of the most loyal to the original. Harryhausen's special effects add to the story and audiences who are fans of fantasy adventures will like the action sequences. The film also pays tribute to classic sword fighting sequences, making it one of the best Sinbad adaptations out there.

Sources: Rotten Tomatoes, YouTube , YouTube , AFI , The Anime News Network

My (Current) Ultimate List of Travel Movies

Way back in 2008, I created a list of ten of the best travel movies ever. It was a great list. But 2008 was a long time ago. Since I watch a lot of movies on flights and there have been many wonderful and breathtaking travel movies made since then, watching The Way a few days ago made me realize that we’re long overdue for a list of my all-time favorite best travel movies that will inspire you to get off the couch, pack your bag, and head to unknown lands:  

1. Lost in Translation

2. Whale Rider

3. Lord of the Rings

4. Into the Wild

5. In Bruges

6. Under the Tuscan Sun

7. Nowhere in Africa

8. Crocodile Dundee

9. Up in the Air

10. The Beach

11. The Motorcycle Diaries

12. Any Indiana Jones

13. Thelma and Louise

14. Lawrence of Arabia

15. Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

16. A Good Year

17. Eurotrip

18. Seven Years in Tibet

19. The Darjeeling Limited

20. Midnight in Paris

21. Monsoon Wedding

22. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

23. The Way

24. Vicky Cristina Barcelona

25. Y Tu Mama También

27. Before Sunrise

28. A Map for Saturday

30. Roman Holiday

31. Queen of Katwe

32. Jiro Dreams of Sushi

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.  

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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CRUISING , FLASHPACKING

Cinematic voyages: 20 unforgettable cruise ship movies.

Are you looking for inspiration to plan your first cruise ? Take a cinematic voyage with my pick of movies set on a cruise ship.

Not all of these cruise ship movies are masterpieces (although some are). A few are utter stinkers. However, each of them showcases aspects of life on the high seas.

Although I have indicated the availability of these films on Netflix and Amazon Prime there may be regional variations. Information here relates to the UK market in March 2024.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

Classic Movies About Cruise Ships

Let’s start with the best movies about cruise ships, from films from Hollywood’s Golden Age to a science fiction classic.

Now, Voyager (1942)

Now, Voyager is not only one of the best movies set on a cruise ship but it is also one of my favourite films of all time. I blub like a baby each time I watch it.

Cowed by her domineering mother, middle-aged neurotic Boston heiress Charlotte Vale (a stupendous Bette Davis) takes a cruise after a restorative stay in a sanatorium. Whilst on board, she falls in love with the married Jerry (Paul Henreid).

The movie is famous for an iconic scene where Paul Henreid’s character lights two cigarettes and gives one to Bette Davis. 

A masterpiece of a movie.

• Running time: 1 hour 57 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 91%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score : 90%
• Available for streaming on Amazon Prime here .

An Affair to Remember (1957)

This melodrama directed by Leo McCarey and starring Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr is considered to be one of the most romantic films of all time.

Playboy Nickie (Grant) and Terry (Kerr) fall in love on a transatlantic cruise to New York. Despite being engaged to other people, they agree to meet in six months at the top of the Empire State Building. But will all go to plan?

An Affair to Remember was introduced to a new generation of cinema-goers when it was featured in the 1993 movie Sleepless in Seattle .

• Running time: 1 hour 55 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 65%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score : 87%
• Available for streaming on Amazon Prime here

Death on the Nile (1978)

Agatha Christie’s 1937 murder mystery has been adapted for the silver screen three times but the original film version is the best of the bunch (don’t go near Kenneth Branagh’s woeful 2022 remake).

Directed by John Guillermin, Death on the Nile was Peter Ustinov’s first appearance as Hercule Poirot and perhaps his best. Soon after Poirot boards a ship for a luxurious cruise down the Nile, a newlywed heiress is discovered murdered on board. Who is her murderer?

• Running time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score : 78%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score : 79%

The Fifth Element (1997)

Welcome to a cruise ship of the future.

For my money, Luc Besson’s The Fifth Element is up there with the best science fiction movies of all time. Korben Dallas (Bruce Willis giving one of his finest performances) is a 23rd-century cab driver who is unwittingly pulled into a search for a mysterious fifth element that will prevent an apocalyptic event.

Much of the action in the final third of the movie takes place on Fhloston Paradise, a space cruise ship patronised by the rich and powerful. This superliner features twelve swimming pools with two VIP pools, dozens of high-end restaurants and a concert hall.

A glimpse of the future of cruising? Minus the giant fireball of course.

• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score : 91%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score: 90%

Disaster Movies Set on a Cruise Ship

The poseidon adventure (1972).

The 1970s was the decade for disaster movies featuring all-star ensemble casts and The Poseidon Adventure gets my vote as the best disaster film set on a cruise ship.

This multi-nominated movie – it went on to win two Oscars – centres on the ageing SS Poseidon on her final voyage from New York to Athens. After it is upended by a tsunami on New Year’s Day, it’s a race against time to bring the survivors to safety.

Spoiler alert; not many passengers make it.

• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 81%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score : 76%

Titanic (1997)

The Oscar-winning, multi-nominated Titanic is one of the highest-grossing films of all time. Directed by James Cameron and starring Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio, this epic movie about one of the most famous cruise ships in history is also one of the most expensive movies ever made.

The sinking of the Titanic is viewed through the lens of a fictional relationship across the social divide between Rose (Winslet), and Jack (DiCaprio).

• Running time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 87%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score: 69%

A Night to Remember (1958)

Despite Titanic ’s many gongs, I far prefer this treatment of the sinking of the ill-fated cruise ship.

Filmed in a semi-documentary style, A Night to Remember sticks closely to the facts of the ship’s sinking, unimpeded by fictional sub-plots. This riveting film portrays the events of the fateful night of 15 th April 1912 from the perspective of the luxury liner’s second officer, Charles Lightoller (Kenneth More). 

• Running time : 2 hours 3 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 100%

Movies to Make You Laugh

Monkey business (1931).

Monkey Business was the Marx Brothers’ third feature comedy and takes place on a cruise ship crossing the Atlantic to the USA.

Groucho, Harpo, Chico and Zeppo play four stowaways who are forced to work for a pair of feuding gangsters to evade capture by the ship’s crew. After the ship docks, the zany quartet become unlikely heroes when one of the gangsters kidnaps the other’s daughter.

• Running time: 1 hour 18 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 89%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score: 84%
• Available for on DVD from Amazon Prime here

Out to Se a (1997)

Out to Sea is not Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon’s finest cinematic outing by any stretch of the imagination but it is a harmless bit of escapist fun.

Hunting for lonely women with hefty bank balances, Charlie (Matthau) coaxes his widower brother-in-law Herb (Lemmon) into working with him as a dance host on an all-expenses-paid luxury cruise. Under the watchful eye of the cruise director (played by Brent Spiner from Star Trek ), Charlie pursues wealthy socialite Liz (Dyan Cannon) and Herb unexpectedly falls for Vivian (Gloria DeHaven).

• Running time: 1 hour 49 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score : 36%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score: 52%

The Parent Trap (1998)

This romantic comedy directed and co-written by Nancy Meyers stars Lindsay Lohan playing the role of identical twins who discover their relationship when they are sent to the same summer camp. The twins then set to work trying to reunite their parents.

While much of The Parent Trap takes place on land, there are some scenes set aboard Cunard’s now-retired Queen Elizabeth 2 (they were actually filmed on  Queen Mary , which is docked in Long Beach, California).

• Running time : 2 hours 7 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 86%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score: 70%

Like Father (2018)

In this predictable rom-com, jilted bride Rachel (Kristen Bell) ends up on her honeymoon Caribbean cruise with her estranged father Harry (Kelsey Grammer).

Like Father is set aboard Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas , so lovingly filmed that it feels like an infomercial at times.

• Running time: 1 hour 43 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 46%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score: 47%
• Available for streaming on Netflix

Carry on Cruising (1962)

Carry on films are a guilty pleasure for me. Cinematic masterpieces they are not but they are silly fun from a more innocent time.

Carry on Cruising is very much in this mould.

Sid James plays Wellington Crowther, the captain of SS Happy Wanderer, who is forced to replace five absent crew members at short notice. Not only are these the most incompetent shipmates to set foot on deck, but the passengers are no picnic.

• Running time: 1 hour 29 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: N/A
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score: 51%

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953)

Shot in glorious Technicolor and featuring a razor-sharp screenplay, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is one of the best musical comedies set on the seven seas.

Showgirl Lorelei Lee (Marilyn Monroe) sets sail for Paris with her friend Dorothy Shaw (Jane Russell), where she plans to marry her wealthy beau, Gus Esmond Jr. However, her plan is placed in jeopardy by the watchful eye of a private detective hired by Mr Esmund Sr. and by Lorelei’s love of diamonds.

• Running time: 1 hour 31 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 98%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score: 83%

Royal Wedding (1951)

Do you fancy on-board entertainment Hollywood-style?

In the run-up to the wedding between the then Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten, an American brother-and-sister song-and-dance team Tom (Fred Astaire) and Ellen Bowen (Jane Powell) set sail for London. Then love intervenes for both siblings.

• Running time: 1 hour 32 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 92%

Shall We Dance? (1937)

Was there ever a more perfect recipe than Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers performing to the sublime music and lyrics by George and Ira Gershwin?

Set on a transatlantic sailing from Paris to New York, Shall We Dance? features Astaire as Pete “Petrov” Peters, a Russian ballet dancer, and Rogers as Linda Keene, a musical-comedy star. As a publicity stunt to prolong Linda’s career, her agent leaks to the press that the two performers are married. 

Will a fake marriage turn into the real thing?

This exhilarating musical features some of the greatest songs ever composed, including They Can’t Take That Away From Me and Let’s Call The Whole Thing Off.

• Rotten Tomatoes audience score : 84%

Romance on the High Seas (1948)

Starring Doris Day in her film debut and choreographed by Busby Berkeley, Romance on the High Seas is a farce with romantic misunderstandings at its heart. Georgia Garret (Day) is a nightclub singer who is hired to assume the identity of a socialite, Elvira Kent, on a cruise to Rio de Janeiro to allow Kent to remain at home to spy on her suspected unfaithful husband,

Filming locations for Romance on the High Seas included Rio de Janeiro and Cartegena in Colombia.

• Running time: 1 hour 39 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 88%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score: 61%
• Available to buy on Blu-Ray here

Dramatic Movies

Ship of fools (1965).

This eclectic group of passengers on a cruise ship bound for pre-war Germany from Mexico represents a microcosm of 1930s society. Picking up eight Oscar nominations and directed by Stanley Kramer, Ship of Fools features a stellar ensemble cast including Vivien Leigh (in her final film role), Lee Marvin and George Segal.  

Although the action takes place almost entirely on an ocean liner, the movie was filmed on a soundstage at Paramount Studios.

• Running time : 2 hours 29 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 64%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score : 77%

Table for Five (1983)

In this poignant melodrama, divorced father J.P. Tannen (Jon Voight) takes his three children on a Mediterranean cruise in an attempt to reconnect with them. However, he quickly realises that this is not that easy and is faced with an impossible decision when he learns of a tragedy back home.

Partly filmed on MS Vistafjord (built for the now defunct Norwegian American Line ), shooting locations for Table for Five included Rome , Genoa, Haifa in Israel , Athens and Cairo and Alexandria in Egypt.

• Running time: 2 hours 2 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 67%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score: 59%
• Not currently for streaming on Netflix or Amazon Prime or to buy on DVD or Blu-Ray

Speed 2 Cruise Control  (1997)

Keanu Reeves was wise to decline the lead role in this lame sequel to Speed . In his place, Jason Patric teamed up with Sandra Bullock as they battled to get all of the passengers on a Caribbean cruise to safety when disaster strikes.

Seabourn Legend was rented for six weeks to film the movies and its multiple filming locations were used including those in the USA, the Caribbean and France.

• Running time: 2 hours 5 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 4%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score : 16%

And the Award for the Worst Cruise Movie Ever Made Goes to …

Jack and jill (2011).

If you thought that Speed 2 Cruise Control  was bad, this is the cinematic turkey to beat all cinematic turkeys.

Improbably, Adam Sandler plays twins Jack and Jill who join their family on a cruise vacation. Jack and Jill is so unfunny and its plot so preposterous, that I don’t have the will to say any more about it.

This became the first film to sweep the board of the Razzies, winning in each category including Worst Picture, Worst Director, Worst Actor, Worst Actress, and Worst Screenplay. The cruise ship scenes were filmed aboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas .

• Running time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer score: 3%
• Rotten Tomatoes audience score: 36%

And that’s a wrap.

Whether you are looking for inspiration to plan a cruise or simply looking for recommendations for a sofa and popcorn night at home, I hope that this cruise ship movies list hits the spot.

Watch, dream and book that cruise.

READ THESE NEXT FOR MORE CINEMATIC TRAVEL INSPIRATION!

• Unmissable Movies Set in France on Netflix & Amazon Prime
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About Bridget

Bridget Coleman is a complete cinephile and has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

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The Best Movies About Arctic Exploration

The fascinating world of Arctic exploration has long been a popular subject for filmmakers, giving rise to enthralling movies that embody the spirit of adventure and survival. Countless stories have been inspired by real-life expeditions and fictional tales alike, highlighting the physical and mental challenges faced by those who dare to venture into these unforgiving landscapes. The best arctic movies provide insight into human resilience, bravery, and the struggle to survive in hostile environments. 

Exemplary movies about arctic exploration immerse viewers in the chilling reality of life in the Arctic and Antarctic by skillfully showcasing the unique themes, characters, ideologies, and stories associated with this remarkable setting. Through stunning visuals and gripping narratives, these films transport audiences to the icy wilderness while portraying the experiences of explorers, scientists, and other adventurers who take on the extremes of these frozen frontiers. Such movies about Antarctica and the Arctic have managed to make a lasting impact on the cinematic landscape, solidifying their place as timeless classics. 

In the landscape of arctic exploration movies, a few gems excel in capturing the essence of what it means to face the challenges of the frozen world head-on. For instance, John Carpenter's The Thing masterfully combines science fiction and horror in a tale of an alien creature wreaking havoc among an isolated research team in Antarctica. Against the Ice, a Netflix drama, follows two Danish explorers as they desperately attempt to survive the harsh Arctic elements while claiming a disputed territory. The riveting survival thriller Arctic , starring Mads Mikkelsen, showcases one man's harrowing battle against the brutal Arctic environment after a tragic plane crash. These exceptional films are just a few shining examples of the best movies about arctic exploration. 

The top movies about the Arctic continue to resonate with viewers across the globe with their vivid portrayals of life in the icy wilderness. From thrilling adventures to tales of the indomitable human spirit, the best movies about Antarctica and the Arctic paint a rich tapestry of experiences and emotions that resonate long after the credits roll. These captivating Arctic movies hold a special place in the annals of cinematic history.  

Against the Ice

• Released : 2022
• Directed by : Peter Flinth

Based on true events, Against the Ice showcases the harrowing tale of two explorers stranded in the unforgiving Arctic landscape. With its incredible cinematography and authentic portrayal of the challenges faced by these courageous men, this gripping drama captivates and inspires crowds. Additionally, the strong bonds forged between the characters in their fight for survival add further depth to this extraordinary story. As a result, Against the Ice stands out as one of the finest arctic exploration films for its realistic depiction of human perseverance and resilience.

• Released : 1982
• Directed by : John Carpenter

A sci-fi classic, The Thing takes arctic exploration to horrifying new heights. This chilling masterpiece combines an isolated and treacherous environment with a terrifying extraterrestrial creature, building a suspenseful atmosphere that leaves crowds on the edge of their seats. Furthermore, the film's remarkable special effects and powerful performances create an unforgettable experience. Ultimately, The Thing earns its place among the best movies about arctic exploration due to its unique blend of horror, science fiction, and survivalist themes.

30 Days of Night

• Released : 2007
• Directed by : David Slade

In a unique take on arctic exploration, 30 Days of Night presents a thrilling story set in Alaska 's polar night where residents must fend off bloodthirsty vampires. This dark, chilling tale combines elements of horror and suspense to create a gripping atmosphere that keeps audiences enthralled. Apart from its captivating plot, the film's stunning visuals and spine-chilling twists add to its appeal. Consequently, 30 Days of Night distinguishes itself as one of the best movies about arctic exploration for its innovative fusion of horror and icy landscapes.

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• Released : 2018
• Directed by : Joe Penna

Delving into the challenges of surviving an arctic landscape, Arctic tells a gripping story of an air-crash survivor struggling to stay alive while awaiting rescue. This emotionally charged film combines heart-stopping tension with stunning visuals of arctic wilderness; thus engaging viewers in an immersive cinematic experience. Furthermore, the remarkable performance by Mads Mikkelsen as the resourceful protagonist adds depth to this survival story. These exceptional elements solidify Arctic's status as one of the top arctic exploration films ever made.

• Directed by : Asif Kapadia

A haunting tale of love, betrayal, and survival, Far North transports crowds to the desolate beauty of the Arctic tundra. This atmospheric drama captivates viewers with its captivating storyline, powerful performances by its talented cast, and striking visuals of the treacherous arctic landscape. Exemplifying the complexity of human relationships amidst the harsh realities of life in the Arctic, the film stands out for its emotional depth and compelling narrative. Far North undoubtedly takes its place among the top arctic exploration films for its intriguing exploration of the human condition in extreme conditions.

Encounters at the End of the World

• Directed by : Werner Herzog

In this fascinating documentary, director Werner Herzog takes viewers on an extraordinary journey to the isolated research station in Antarctica. Encounters at the End of the World showcases the unique experiences of scientists and workers residing in this remote and harsh environment while capturing the mesmerizing beauty of the frozen landscape. The film's intimate insights into life at the edge of the world, combined with Herzog's striking images and inquisitive spirit, make it a remarkable exploration of Antarctica. As such, Encounters at the End of the World earns its place among the best arctic exploration films for its evocative portrayal of life in the most extreme conditions.

The Midnight Sky

• Released : 2020
• Directed by : George Clooney

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, The Midnight Sky follows a scientist's arduous journey through the desolate Arctic landscape to warn a returning spacecraft of Earth's devastation. This visually stunning film captivates crowds with its poignant storyline, exceptional performances by the cast, and breathtaking cinematography showcasing the icy wilderness. Additionally, the film's exploration of themes like hope, isolation, and human connection elevates it to a memorable cinematic experience. The Midnight Sky solidifies its position as one of the best movies about arctic exploration through its thought-provoking narrative and stunning visuals.

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The Revenant

• Released : 2015
• Directed by : Alejandro González Iñárritu

Set against the vast, frozen backdrop of the Canadian wilderness, The Revenant presents a visceral tale of vengeance and survival amidst extreme conditions. This intense drama showcases breathtaking scenery and superb craftsmanship in cinematography, effectively immersing crowds in the unforgiving world of frontier explorers. Moreover, the raw performances by an outstanding cast, especially Leonardo DiCaprio, elevate this cinematic gem to a truly epic status. As a result, The Revenant cements its position as one of the greatest arctic exploration films, combining masterful storytelling with stunning visual artistry.

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Into the Wild

• Directed by : Sean Penn

Based on the true story of Christopher McCandless, Into the Wild showcases a young man's journey away from society and into the heart of the Alaskan wilderness. This inspiring film captivates audiences with its powerful tale of adventure, self-discovery, and survival, masterfully portrayed by Emile Hirsch. Stunning visuals of Alaska's vast and beautiful landscapes further draw viewers into the emotional narrative. Into the Wild stands as one of the finest movies about arctic exploration, offering a gripping and profound look at the human spirit's resilience and the search for meaning in life.

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• Released : 2012
• Directed by : Joe Carnahan

Featuring Liam Neeson, The Grey tells the harrowing tale of oil rig workers stranded in the unforgiving Alaskan wilderness after a plane crash and hunted by a pack of wolves. This intense survival thriller combines riveting action with striking visuals, showcasing the brutal beauty of the Arctic landscape. The film’s exploration of themes like mortality, human instinct, and hope keeps viewers captivated throughout its thrilling story. The Grey undeniably stands as one of the best movies about arctic exploration, offering an exhilarating and thought-provoking journey into survival against insurmountable odds.

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• Released : 2009
• Directed by : Dominic Sena

In the noir-infused thriller Whiteout , a U.S. Marshal must solve a murder mystery in the hostile environment of Antarctica before a deadly storm arrives. The film delivers a chilling atmosphere and suspenseful storytelling, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish. Additionally, the stunning cinematography showcasing the frosty landscape sets the perfect backdrop for a thrilling crime drama. With its engaging plot, intense action sequences, and icy setting, Whiteout earns its spot among the best movies about arctic exploration.

• Released : 2011
• Directed by : Matthijs van Heijningen

A chilling prelude to John Carpenter's classic 1982 film, this 2011 version of The Thing showcases the dread and terror that comes with Arctic exploration. Set in the remote Antarctic, immersive storytelling and breathtaking cinematography create a genuinely haunting atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. As the protagonists encounter a shape-shifting extraterrestrial life form, the film delves deep into the psychological aspects of isolation and paranoia, making it stand apart from other arctic exploration movies. In conclusion, The Thing captivates crowds with its unique blend of horror and mystery, cementing its place as one of the best films of all time in the genre of Arctic exploration.

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91+ Best Travel Movies of All Time: An Ultimate List | 2022 Updated

Great travel movies are priceless.  They can keep you motivated during those days of the cubicle cage and mundane routine. Unfortunately Googling, “Best Travel Movies” always churns out the same 10. Lucky for you, I’ve kept an ongoing list of the best travel movies that will inspire your next adventure and found a few you likely haven’t seen…yet.

Contents of this Best Travel Movies List

• The 11 Best Travel Movies That No One Mentions!!
• The Best Pure Travel Movies
• Best Destination Movies
• Adventure Travel
• Action and Spy Movies
• Romance And “Chick Flicks” (That Anyone Can Love)
• Nature And Documentaries
• Comedy And Pure Fun
• Classic Travel Movies
• Travel Tv Shows
• Food Travel Tv Shows
• Nature Travel Tv Shows

The 11 Best Travel Movies that No One Mentions

• Bella Vita (2014) 
• Life in a Day
• Alamar (2011)
• Happy People: A Year in the Taiga
• Point Break (2014) 
• The Before Trilogy: Before Sunrise
• The Before Trilogy: Before Sunset
• The Before Trilogy: Before Midnight
• Mile… Mile and Half

Each movie on this quick list of my 11 favorite movies for a travel and adventure mood captures the feeling of simply wandering the world, from South America to Asia, and creating and experiencing your own true story. Whether you’re romantic, adventurous, or a little of both, one of these 11 movies will scratch that travel itch.

If you don’t find a movie that perfectly satisfies your travel palet, keep scrolling our click here to jump to our full list of the 91+ best travel movies .

1.      Bella Vita

In the travel documentary Bela Vita, pro surfer Chris del Moror travels through Italy exploring the artisanal culture that fills the country in every way from culinary artists to the high skilled craftsmen, and even the surfers of the budding Italian surf scene. 

Watch the Bella Vita Trailer

This film simultaneously combines the high life experiences of travel with the calming adventure of outdoors sports accented by the loving warmth of Italian culture explored through a cross country road trip -making for a great vicarious experience whenever you’re in a travel mood.

Greatfor: When you’re feeling adventurous yet chill – perfect for a rainy day

Ratings: No rating on Rotten Tomatoes (which means we’ve found an unsung hero)

Where to watch it: Watch Bella Vita (2014) on Amazon

2.      Life in a Day

Why Watch: A pure view of cultures across the world and how we’re all connected by documenting the true story of millions of people’s life in a day

Watch the Life In A Day trailer

On July 24, 2010, thousands of people from every continent uploaded footage of a normal day in their lives as part of a project by Ridley Scott and Youtube.  The result is an astounding masterpiece, beautifully patched together into a very engaging story…of Life on earth, in a single day.

…or watch the entire Life In A Day movie

Why I love this movie: Some of my most adventurous and rewarding travels have been far from risky – more often just making my way into a very foreign place, like Laos, or Vietnam, or Egypt, or Iraq, and then experiencing the culture by simply observing how they live. You would be surprised how rich an experience like this could be, and Life in a Day captures that experience perfectly.  There is no narration, no spin, and no analysis, just normal people and average cultures presenting themselves.  Its beautiful.

If you come away from watching this without feeling like the world is smaller, I’d be surprised.

• Great for: The feeling exploring the world and other cultures, all from your couch
• Rating: 80% on Rotten Tomatoes
• Where to Watch it: WatchLife in a Day free on Youtube

Don’t forget to follow up this movie with Life in a Day (2020) which was recorded exactly 10 years later. The updated sequel movie explores themes all travelers can relate to, life across cultures, and feelings across the world during the confusing times of the pandemic.

3.      180 South

In 1968, Yvon Chouinard (founder of the clothing brand Patagonia) and Doug Tompkins drove a van, some surfboards, and some climbing gear from Ventura, California to the southernmost regions of Patagonia, in Chile and Argentina – and they recorded the entire journey. Present day adventurer, wanderer, surfer, and climber Jeff Johnson found the footage and decided to remake the journey in pursuit of a quintessential Patagonia experience and self discovery.

The movie 180 South follows Jeff Johnson as retraces the footsteps while creating a new adventure, sailing south, hitchhiking, exploring, climbing, and picking up friends along the way.  At points, Jeff even connects with Yvon Chouinard to talk about travel and the outdoors in a way that could enliven even the most downtrodden wanderluster. 

watch the 180 South trailer

If your brand of travels includes time spent outdoors, as far as possible from civilization, 180 South will be like having a nice conversation about the adventures you live for.

• Great for: Wanderers, trekkers, and travelers of all breeds
• Rating: 83% on RottenTomatoes
• Whereto Watch: Watch 180 South onAmazon or on Netflix

4.      Alamar (“To the Sea”)

Why Watch: To recreate that feeling of discovery

A documentary and true story of how a small boy is about to make the move to the big city of Rome with his Italian mother, but first takes one last “adventure” with his father “alamar” (“To the Sea”). The boy, his father, and his grandfather spend time connecting and living as traditional fishermen and divers so that the boy always remembers his roots and his heritage of the sea.

watch the trailer for Alamar

Why I love this movie: Though the film isn’t in English, you don’t need to understand a word.  You can feel the adventure that the boy is going through, under the loving watch of his father, and how he grows to feel his connection to the ocean.  The experience of watching is partlyentertaining, with the beautiful views, and partly reminiscent of the feeling of discovery that comes when you go into the vast unknown (the world or the sea) and learn to know you had more in common with the “unknown” than you thought – all with the rift of the occasional Spanish guitar in the backdrop

• Great for: Water lovers and ocean views
• Rating& Awards: 91% on Rotten Tomatoes
• Whereto Watch it: Watch Alamar  on Amazon

Why Watch: The feeling of travels started by loss, but ending in gain

Many travelers’ ventures started with a loss, a searching, or a desire for experience that would provide answers or guidance.  That  is exactly what The Way is about – father who lost his son and decides to fulfill his son’s last standing wish, to walk the Camino de Santiago through Spain.

The Way is often recommended as an excellent travel movie because of its feel. There is no big budget, the big name actor in the movie (Martin Sheen) doesn’t take himself seriously, and the characters are remarkably human, flawed, and charming – just like the characters you would likely meet on the road.

The Way, and the journey along the Camino de Santiago within, perfectly captures the blend of emotions and the ultimately positive feel that backpacking the world brings.

• Great for: Just great for the feeling of travel
• Rating: 83% on Rotten TomatoesWatch The Way onAmazon or on Netflix

6.      Happy People: A Year in the Taiga

Why watch: Transports you to a different place as a welcomed observer of a very different way of life

Though Happy People isn’t exactly about travelers, the epic adventure of following those who live in the “Taiga” of Siberia is such a journey that it feels as though you’ve traveled to Russia and followed them thousands of miles between home and the frozen frontier where they live for months on end.

watch the trailer for Happy People

If you have travel experiences on your bucket list like “go to Mongolia” or “visit a tribe in the Amazon”, Happy People is a documentary for you.  The filmmaker follows the tough people of the Taiga region, in Siberian Russia, for an entire year.  The result is an interesting portrayal of a tough yet balanced people living in, thriving in, and enjoying one of the harshest environments in the world.

• Great for: Recreating the immersive cultural education that comes with adventurous travel
• Rating: 87% on RottenTomatoes
• Whereto Watch: Watch Happy People: AYear in the Taiga on Amazon or on Netflix

The “Before” Trilogy

(Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, Before Midnight)

Why Watch: Sums up the romantic experiences of travel – which is a one of a kind adventure

No, I didn’t trick you with the title of this article.  At the risk of being misunderstood, I’ll go all in on this one – the experience of love, regardless of how shallow or deep, is an adventure in its own right. 

You have the chance to gain something undefined yet priceless or lose everything (including your sanity). Even more, romance on the road has higher stakes – you know there’s a looming end date, too many unspoken thoughts, and as much pleasure as you’re willing to let yourself have.

Though this kind of pressure could create unimaginable chaos, given how complicated humans are, it usually results in a nothing to lose and “bare all” situation that is refreshing, irreplaceable, and addictive.  If that’s not a risky adventure, I don’t know what is – and the Before Trilogy captures this sentiment perfectly.

7.      Before Sunrise (1995)

In the first chapter, a young Celine and Jesse meet on a train from eastern European to western Europe, where Celine lives and Jesse is supposed to take aplane home, back to the US.  As theteasing sparks and smiles are exchanged, Jesse has to decide whether to stay,or go…Before Sunrise

Rating:100% on Rotten Tomatoes

8.      Before Sunset (2004)

In the second movie, 10 years after initially meeting, Celine and Jesse are presented to the audience again in the familiar (to most) state of unfinished love, divided by continents.  Through clarified miscommunications and trickled honesty the two finally get to the thing that really connects them…all with Jesse’s depart looming as he flies out at sunset.

Rating: 95% on Rotten Tomatoes

9. Before Midnight (2013)

In the conclusion to the trilogy, like all natural things, love goes through seasons and shades.  20 years after the start (in the storyline and after the release of the actual movies), Celine and Jesse are forced to explore this idea – all against the backdrop of wanderlust and travel

An interesting and artful film project about travel and love that now spans 3 decades in a way that makes you question love, culture, what matters, and (more importantly) what doesn’t matter in just enjoying and being happy.  Each movie takes place at a casual place, using dialogue and though as its hook.  Each movie also takes place 10 years after the preceding movie, and was released 10 years after the preceding movie.

Rating: 98% on Rotten Tomatoes

Great for:  Re-experiencing the rich conversations and interactions that happen while traveling…with your guard down

Where to Watch the Before Trilogy:

• Watch Before Sunrise on Amazon or Netflix
• Watch Before Sunset on Amazon or Netflix
• Watch Before Midnight on Amazon or Netflix

10.      Point Break (2015)

Why Watch: The Feeling of Adventure and a Tribe Culture

A remake on the old 1980’s Point Break, but with a touch of adrenaline and travel that makes it more reminiscent of Redbull TV with a story line.

A group of extremely  adventurous travelers and criminals chain a string of heists into a”game” to honor the forces of nature, and an undercover FBI agent is sent in to investigate.  The story that ensues is a showcase of extreme sports underlined with that hard to replace tribal  feeling that happens when you travel with a likeminded and equally adventurous group.

Though this movie has low ratings and a storyline most will deem illogical, I love it for the adrenaline infused experiences it recreates, focus on the tribe culture that happens on the road, and the idea of finding your “line”.  The “ Ozaki 8 ” extreme sports feats seem like a nice bucket list to recreate as well.  If you like Redbull TV and wandering then this remake is right up your alley.

• Great for: Adrenaline chasers and adventurous travelers
• Rotten Tomatoes: 9% (Meaning this is a love it or hate it movie – don’t worry, I’m prepared for the sneers)
• Whereto Watch: Watch Point Break 2015 on Amazon or on Netflix

11. Mile, Mile and a Half

Why watch : For hikers and trekkers to appreciate a beautiful view from the couch

If you love to hike but can’t get outside, this is the documentary for you.  “Mile, Mile and a Half” is a project by photographers, videographers, artists, and hikers to capture the experience of hiking 219 miles of the John Muir Trail.  The result is a visually pleasing and peaceful movie that takes you outside when you can’t be.

• Great for: Hikers and trekkers that are stuck inside
• Rating: 80% on Rotten Tomatoes (rated by audience)
• Where to Watch: Watch Mile, Mile and a Half on Amazon or on Netflix

More of my favorite Best Travel Movies

The secret life of walter mitty.

A daydreaming, introverted, and endearing office worker, played by Ben Stiller, spends part of his days doing what he is told, and most of his days daydreaming about…the secret life of Walter Mitty, the lives inside his mind.

As all wanderlusters do, he daydreams, day in and day out, about the adventures he could have, until one day he’s pushed over the edge to take on that adventure of a lifetime,

• Wild (2014)

Inspired by a novel and true story, Wild follows the journey of a young woman as she hikes the Pacific Crest Trail and along the way climbs a mountain of self discovery, eventually using the wild to understand the wild in her

FULL LIST OF THE 91 BEST TRAVEL MOVIES OF ALL TIME

Beyond my 11 favorites, there are hundreds of other travel movie options that inspire wanderlust, trigger that desire for self-discovery and exploration that comes with a good travel film.

In this section, we’ll go even further, sharing the the 91 best movies and TV shows for travel lovers by genre. Whether you’re in the mood for a Rom Com, an action adventure flick, beautiful scenery provided courtesy of nature, a timeless classic, we’ll share great movies from every genre to fill your needs.

Click to jump to your genre of choice

THE BEST PURE TRAVEL MOVIES

• The Beach (2000)
• The Way (2010)
• The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
• Life in a Day (2010)
• Life in a Day (2020)
• The Motorcycle Diaries
• The Bucket List (2007)
• Into The Wild (2007)
• 180 South (2010)
• Seven Years in Tibet (1997)
• Endless Summer (1966)
• Expedition Happiness (2017)
• The Darjeeling Limited (2007)
• Catch Me If You Can (2002)

BEST DESTINATION MOVIES

• The Beach – Thailand (2000)
• Slumdog Millionaire – India (2008)
• Vicky, Cristina Barcelona – Spain (2008)
• Under the Tuscan Sun – Italy (2003)
• Best Exotic Marigold Hotel – India (2011)
• Grand Budapest Hotel
• A Good Year – France (2006)
• The Last Samurai – Japan (2003)
• Memoirs of a Geisha – Japan (2005)

ADVENTURE TRAVEL

• 14 Peaks: Nothing is Impossible (2021)
• Point Break (2015)
• The Way Back (2010)
• Wild (2014) (88% on Rotten Tomatoes)
• Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001 – 2003)

ACTION AND SPY MOVIES

• Skyfall (2012)
• Casino Royale (2006)
• The Bourne Supremacy (2004)
• The Bourne Ultimatum (2007)
• Indiana Jones Movies
• Captain America – Civil War (2016)
• Black Panther (2018)
• Fast Five (2011)
• The Tourist (2010)

ROMANCE AND “CHICK FLICKS” (THAT ANYONE CAN LOVE)

• Under The Tuscan Sun (2003)
• A Good Year (2006)
• Before Sunrise (1995)
• Before Sunset (2004)
• Before Midnight (2013)
• Vicky Christina Barcelona (2008)
• Under the Tuscan Sun (2003)
• Eat Pray Love (2010)
• Crazy Rich Asians (2018)
• ‘The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants’ (2005) 

NATURE AND DOCUMENTARIES

• Chasing Ice (2012)
• Mission Blue (2014)
• Chasing Coral (2017)
• Captain Fantastic (2016)
• Encounters at the End Of The World (2007)
• A Walk in the Woods (2015)
• Mile… Mile and a Half (2013)

COMEDY AND PURE FUN

• Eurotrip (2004)
• Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga (2020)
• The Hangover Part II (2011)
• National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)
• ‘Pee-wee’s Big Adventure’ (1985)
• Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune (2022)
• All is Lost (2013)
• Adrift (2018)
• Maiden Voyage (2004)
• Ratatouille (2007)

CLASSIC TRAVEL MOVIES

• Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
• Casablanca (1942)
• Roman Holiday (1953)

TRAVEL TV SHOWS

• Parts Unknown (12 Seasons, 2001-2013)
• No Reservations (9 Seasons)
• A Cook’s Tour (2 Seasons, 2002-2004)
• Departures (3 Seasons, 2008-2011)
• Long Way Up (1 Season, 2020)
• Long Way Down (1 Season, 2007)
• Long Way Round (1 Season, 2004)

FOOD TRAVEL TV SHOWS

• Somebody Feed Phil (Netflix) (5 Seasons, 2018)
• Street Food – Asia (Netflix) (1 Season, 2019)
• Street Food – Latin America (Netflix) (1 Season, 2020)
• Eat the World with Emeril Lagasse (Amazon Prime) (1 Season, 2016)

NATURE TRAVEL TV SHOWS

• Planet Earth (2 Seasons, 2006)
• Planet Earth II (1 Season, 2016)
• Human Planet (1 Season, 2011)
• Win the Wilderness (1 Season, 2020)
• Our Greatest National Parks (Narrated by Barack Obama) (1 Season, 2022)

BONUS!!! My personal list of 95 MORE well rated travel movies to watch (and rate)

• 2 Days In Paris (2007)
• 7 Days in Havana (2012)
• A Map For Saturday
• Adventures of Pricilla Queen of the Desert
• Amélie
• Around the World in 80 Days (1956)
• Away We Go (2009)
• Baraka (1992)
• Black Mountain Poets (2015)
• Brooklyn (2015)
• Call Me By Your Name (2017)
• Carol (2015)
• City of God (2002)
• Doctor Zhivago (1965)
• Duma (2005)
• Easy Rider (1969)
• Eight Below (2008)
• Encounters at the End of the World (2007)
• Fitzcarraldo (1982)
• French Kiss
• Girls Trip (2017)
• Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
• Hector and The Search for Happiness (2014)
• Hit the Road: India
• Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
• In Bruges (2008)
• Into the Cold (2013)
• Julie & Julia
• Kundun (1997)
• L’Auberge Espagnole (2002)
• La La Land (2016)
• Last Holiday
• Lion (2016)
• Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
• Lost in Translation – Tokyo
• Meek’s Cutoff (2010)
• Midnight in Paris
• Midsommar (2019)
• Monsoon Wedding
• Murder on the Orient Express (1974)
• My Life in Ruins
• Nomadland’ (2020)
• Not Without My Daughter (1991)
• Nowhere in Africa
• On the Road (2012)
• One Week (2008)
• Out of Africa (1985)
• Paris, Je T’aime (2006)
• Patagonia (2010)
• Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
• Queen of Katwe (2016)
• Riding Solo to the Top of the World
• Roma (2018)
• Romancing the Stone
• Salmon Fishing in the Yemen (2012)
• The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)
• The Art of Travel (2008)
• The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)
• The Big Year
• The Endurance (2000)
• The English Patient (1996)
• The Farewell (2019)
• The Good Lie (2014)
• The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
• The Kite Runner (2007)
• The Lost City of Z (2017)
• The Road Within
• The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
• The Terminal (2004)
• The Tourist
• The Trip (2010)
• The Trip to Italy
• Thelma & Louise (1991)
• Tracks (2013)
• Tracks (2014)
• Up in the Air
• Wadjda (2013)
• Whale Rider
• Withnail & I (1987)
• World’s Fastest Indian 
• Y Tu Mamá También (2001)

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

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)

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Lead image:  IM_photo/Shutterstock

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Best Movies On the Sea and Shipping

The silver screen has always been inspired by the sea. Whether it is action or romance or even comedy, it has been very easy to project the world of a seaman and life on ship in all the genres of film making. It has a sense of mystery and romanticism which makes it a favorite with film makers around the globe.

So it comes as no surprise that Google comes out with a comprehensive list of movies related to the sea life. And although it is literally impossible to talk about all the movies related to the sea life ever made, some of them have left a lasting impression and hence the reason for being on this list. Here is the list of movies inspired by the deep blue waters that I believe should be with every seaman.

You cannot talk about the seas and ships without mentioning the hugely popular movie that broke all the records. Titanic was based on the maiden voyage of the ill-fated passenger liner by the same name, which sank into the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. Though the real life incident was gruesome and dark, James Cameron made the movie with romance as the main theme, which eventually struck a chord with the movie goers making it the highest grosser of all times.

 Crimson Tide

A true edge of the seat action movie, Crimson Tide features two of the finest actors of the US movie industry; Gene Hackman & Denzel Washington. Filled with beautiful performances from both the actors and some powerfully engaging scenes, Crimson Tide was a major hit with the audiences. The movie successfully projects the clash of ideologies of the top ranking officers onboard and how the feud between them almost starts a nuclear war.

One of Russell Crowe’s finest performances, Master and Commander takes us back to the time of Napoleonic Wars. It traces the journey of a British captain of HMS Surprise who is commanded to pursue a French ship Acheron, which happens to be bigger and better equipped than Surprise. The will of the Captain to capture the massive vessel puts him at logger-heads with the crew. How he overcomes the internal and external obstacles to reach the mighty goal is what the whole movie is about.

Pirates of the Caribbean 

A 4 series movie, Pirates is an all-out entertainer, which captures a more magical and mysterious side of the sea in a very light and humorous way.  Johnny Depp steals the spotlight with his exceptional portrayal of Jack Sparrow, a selfish-narcissistic captain of the Black Pearl. The first three parts of the series capture the extraordinary adventures of the crazy captain around the darker side of the seas. Gripping story and beautiful special effects makes this movie a hit with both the younger and the older audiences.

The Perfect Storm

The movie tells the story of the brave crew of Andrea Gail, which is headed by Captain Billy Tyne, played by George Clooney. It follows the boat’s unfortunate journey in the Flemish Cap, Atlantic Ocean, which turns into a nightmare. After a dismal catch at the sea, Captain Billy persuades the crew of Andrea Gail for one more fishing adventure, despite a dangerous weather. As fate would have it the weather turns ugly forcing the captain to call in a Mayday but eventually meets a deadly end.

The Poseidon Adventure 

The story of SS Poseidon, which is on its final voyage before going to a scrapyard, was way ahead of its times back in 1972. But the risk paid off and Poseidon Adventure went on to become one of the very successful sea-inspired movies. The movie involves the capsizing of the luxury liner which is on its way to get dismantled. Gene Hackman plays Reverend Scott, who helps fellow passengers to reach the hull of the ship.

Another underwater winner from James Cameron, The Abyss is the story of a nuclear submarine which encounters massive electrical and hydraulic malfunctions and asks the nearby oilrig crew to help them ascertain the cause of the malfunctioning. It’s only after starting the journey to find the reasons behind such incidents that they realize that they have alien presence amongst them, which is probably the reason behind everything.

Set against the World War ll backdrop, U-571 is the story of American submariners who board the German U-boat in order to obtain the secret Enigma Cipher Machine. So they masquerade as Nazis and take over the U-boat. They are successful in capturing the Enigma Machine, but are hit by a German torpedo, and that is where their troubles begin.

Waterworld is a unique story of the future where the polar icecaps have melted, and have caused majority of Earth to come under water. The movie follows the struggle of a mariner who is striving to fight starvation and rebels. In his journey to survive he helps a woman and a young girl to find dry land.

Do you think we missed any important movie? If yes, please let us know.

You may also like to read – 15 Amazing Ocean Documentaries You Must Watch

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BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT

please add following movies to your list

1. Crimson tide 2. U – 571 3. Down periscope 4. Robinson crusoe

Please add the movie “Captain Phillips” one of the good movies.

Mister Roberts; The Caine Mutiny; The Sea Chase;

@John: Thank you for the addition.

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