
Our top boating and sailing movies
Image credit: Paris Plages
When the weather's keeping you off the water, there's nothing quite like settling in with a good sailing film to keep the maritime spirit alive. Whether you're craving high-seas adventure, inspiring true stories, or just want to feel the spray on your face from the comfort of your lounge, we've curated our top boating and sailing movies.
From edge-of-your-seat thrillers to heartwarming tales of determination, these films capture everything we love about life on the water. So grab a cuppa, get comfortable, and let these maritime adventures remind you why we're all drawn to the sea.
True spirit (2023)
This inspiring Netflix film follows 16-year-old Australian Jessica Watson as she attempts to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world. Based on Watson's own memoir, the film captures both the incredible highs and the lonely lows of her 210-day journey, beautifully showcasing the determination and courage required for such an extraordinary adventure. Perfect family viewing that might just inspire the next generation of sailors. Available on Netflix NZ.
Maiden (2019)
If you haven't seen this brilliant documentary, put it on your must-watch list immediately. Following Tracy Edwards and her all-female crew in the 1989-90 Whitbread Round the World Race, Maiden is both thrilling and deeply moving. The film combines incredible archival footage from aboard their yacht with present-day interviews, creating an unforgettable portrait of courage in the face of overwhelming scepticism. Available on DocPlay, Youtube.
The perfect storm (2000)
George Clooney stars in this gripping tale of commercial fishermen caught in an unprecedented storm pattern. While technically about fishing rather than sailing, it deserves a place on any maritime movie list for its incredible portrayal of the sea's raw power. Available on Prime Video, Apple TV.
Adrift (2018)
Based on Tami Oldham Ashcraft's true story of survival, this film follows a young couple whose romantic sailing adventure turns into a fight for survival when they encounter a catastrophic hurricane. Starring Shailene Woodley and Sam Claflin, it's a powerful testament to human resilience and the importance of being prepared for anything at sea. Available on TVNZ+, Prime Video, Apple TV.
Untold: The race of the century (2022)
Part of Netflix’s Untold series, this doco revisits Australia II’s wing-keeled upset of Dennis Conner in 1983. Archival footage and new interviews reveal innovation, mind games and a victory that still stings the New York Yacht Club. Available on Netflix NZ.
The Mariner perspective
At Mariner, we've heard plenty of real-life adventure stories from our clients – some thrilling, some harrowing, and many that could rival anything Hollywood has produced. While these films provide great entertainment, they also serve as valuable reminders about the importance of proper preparation, quality safety equipment, and comprehensive marine insurance.