29 Movies To Watch About Cruise Ships - Cruising For All (2024)

The allure of cruise ships, opulent vessels sailing the open seas, has a magnetic pull, not only for travelers but also for filmmakers seeking captivating backdrops for their stories. In this cinematic voyage, we’ll delve into a broader selection of Movies To Watch About Cruise Ships that have set sail on the high seas of entertainment.

This collection of movies on cruise ships will give you a much-needed cruise fix between voyages. And live the cruise ship life through classic and modern movies with cruise ships as the main focus. Sit back and enjoy these ocean-fairing movies whilst planning your next voyage.

Movies To Watch About Cruise Ships

1. The Titanic 1997

A film directed by James Cameron that tells the story of a young couple, Jack and Rose, who fall in love aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic during its maiden voyage. The ship hits an iceberg and sinks, leading to chaos and tragedy. The film alternates between the past and present as an elderly Rose recalls her experiences. The movie was a huge success, winning multiple Academy Awards and becoming a cultural phenomenon.

2. The Poseidon Adventure (1972)

A cinematic classic, this disaster film thrusts passengers into chaos when the S.S. Poseidon capsizes after being struck by a tidal wave. Their journey through the ship’s interior to reach safety forms the heart-pounding core of the story.

3. Speed 2: Cruise Control (1997)

The sequel to the hit “Speed,” this film ups the ante by placing its action-packed events on a cruise ship. A rogue hacker takes control of the vessel, leaving the heroes with the daunting task of regaining control and averting disaster.

4. Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation (2018)

Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation” is an animated comedy film where Count Dracula and his monster friends go on a cruise vacation. Dracula falls for the ship’s captain, Ericka, unaware that she’s a descendant of a monster hunter. As their romance unfolds, secrets are revealed, leading to comedic chaos as they navigate mishaps and save their vacation from turning disastrous. The film combines humor, animation, and positive themes of acceptance.

5. Overboard (1987)

In this delightful romantic comedy, a wealthy heiress with amnesia is misled into believing she’s the wife of a working-class carpenter. The story takes a playful twist when the duo finds themselves on a luxury cruise, navigating not only the sea but also the waters of love.

6. Out to Sea” (1997)

This comedy duo Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau, shines once again as they play dance hosts aboard a cruise ship. Their escapades and misadventures in this maritime setting create a perfect recipe for laughter and heartwarming moments.

7. Deep Rising (1998)

A unique blend of action and horror, “Deep Rising” takes a group of mercenaries to a hijacked cruise ship, only to find it infested with deadly creatures. The film’s suspense and adrenaline-pumping sequences keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

8. Monkey Business (1931)

A comedy film starring the Marx Brothers as stowaways on an ocean liner. Their irreverent and zany antics lead to chaos and confusion, involving gangsters and a young woman named Lucy. The film highlights the Marx Brothers’ signature rapid-fire wordplay and physical comedy, leaving a comedic legacy and showcasing their unique brand of humour

9. Virus (1999)

In a chilling twist, an alien force takes over a research ship, transforming it into a malevolent entity threatening humanity. The tense atmosphere and the survival struggle aboard the ship add layers of suspense to this sci-fi horror film.

10. An Affair to Remember (1957)

A romantic drama about Nickie and Terry, who meet on a cruise, despite both being engaged. They promise to reunite at the Empire State Building in six months if they still love each other. A tragic event separates them, but fate eventually brings them back together. The film explores themes of love, fate, and second chances, with an iconic Empire State Building scene. It’s a timeless tale of enduring romance and human connection.

11. Cruise Into Terror (1978)

A made-for-television horror film set on a cruise ship. When an ancient Egyptian curse is unleashed from a sarcophagus, passengers and crew members are haunted by supernatural events and mysterious deaths. The film combines horror and mystery elements within the unique backdrop of a luxury cruise, creating a suspenseful and eerie atmosphere.

12. The Last Voyage (1960)

A disaster film set on the S.S. Claridon, a luxury ocean liner that experiences an engine room explosion and fire. Passengers and crew, including the Webster family, must navigate chaos and peril as the ship sinks. The film captures tension and heroism amid the disaster and showcases the realistic portrayal of a ship’s demise.

13. Cruise (2018)

Set against the backdrop of a summer cruise, this drama explores the evolving relationship between two friends. As they sail through their vacation, unexpected emotions and challenges lead to introspection and growth.

14. Jack and Jill (2011)

The movie tells the story of Jack Sadelstein, a successful executive, and his identical twin sister Jill, both played by Adam Sandler. As part of their holiday adventure, they join a cruise on the Allure of the Seas, a groundbreaking ship by Royal Caribbean International. Onboard, a blend of sibling rivalry and comedic attempts to matchmake Jill with Al Pacino leads to hilarious chaos and calamity.

15. Carry on Cruising (1962)

A British comedy film set on a cruise ship, featuring Captain Crowther and his bumbling crew as they navigate a series of hilarious misadventures involving passengers. This film is part of the renowned “Carry On” film series, known for its slapstick humor and memorable ensemble cast.

16. Ship of Fools (1965)

A drama set on a German ocean liner in 1933. The film follows a diverse group of passengers from different backgrounds, each with their own stories and conflicts. Through their interactions, the movie delves into themes of prejudice, class divisions, and human nature, serving as a microcosm of society and reflecting the tensions of the era. The film’s ensemble cast and exploration of complex social issues have made it a notable entry in cinematic history.

17. Shall We Dance (1937)

A musical romantic comedy starring Fred Astaire as Petrov, a ballet dancer, and Ginger Rogers as Linda Keene, a musical comedy star. The film follows their mistaken identity as a married couple on a cruise ship, leading to romantic complications and charming dance routines, including the famous roller skating dance. The movie showcases the iconic partnership and dance skills of Astaire and Rogers in a lighthearted and entertaining story.

18. Open Water 2 (2006)

A psychological horror film about a group of friends who become stranded in the open ocean after jumping off their yacht for a swim and realising they can’t climb back aboard. Tensions rise as they confront their mistakes and struggle to survive while adrift at sea. The film explores their psychological and emotional turmoil in the face of their dire predicament.

19. Assault on a Queen (1966)

A heist film where criminals led by Mark Brittain (played by Frank Sinatra) plan to rob the luxury ocean liner S.S. Queen Mary using a refurbished submarine. The heist unfolds with tension and complications as the group faces unexpected obstacles and personal conflicts during the daring plan. The film’s unique premise and ocean liner setting make it a notable entry in the heist genre.

20. Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953)

A musical comedy film following showgirl friends Lorelei and Dorothy as they embark on a cruise to Europe. Lorelei aims to marry a wealthy man while dealing with a missing diamond tiara, leading to comedic chaos and romantic escapades. The film is known for its iconic musical numbers, including Marilyn Monroe’s performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” and remains a classic in Hollywood musical history.

21. Like Father (2018)

A comedy-drama film about Rachel, a woman left at the altar, who ends up on her honeymoon cruise with her estranged father, Harry. As they navigate the challenges of reconnecting, the cruise becomes a personal growth and healing journey. The film combines humour and heartwarming moments, emphasising the importance of family connections and forgiveness.

22. Romance on the High Seas, a Comedy Cruise Movie (1948)

A musical romantic comedy about Elvira Kent, who sends a look-alike, Georgia Garrett, on a cruise to test her husband’s fidelity. The switch leads to comedic misunderstandings and romantic entanglement, featuring musical performances. The film marked Doris Day’s debut and is a charming example of classic Hollywood musical comedies.

23. Legend of 1900 (1998)

A drama film about a pianist named 1900 who grows up on an ocean liner and becomes exceptionally skilled. When encouraged to leave the ship by a fellow musician, he faces a personal struggle between his love for music and his fear of the outside world. The film is known for its evocative storytelling, beautiful cinematography, and a memorable piano duel scene.

24. Murder Mystery (2019)

A comedy-mystery film starring Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. The story follows a couple on a European vacation who get caught up in a murder investigation during a family gathering on a super yacht. The film is known for its humor and the chemistry between the lead actors and found success on Netflix.

25. Bon Voyage! (1962)

A comedy-adventure film set during World War II, following the Willard family’s trip to Paris, which turns into an unexpected adventure involving espionage and intrigue. The film blendshumourr and suspense and features a talented cast, offering an entertaining take on wartime Europe.

26. Ghost Ship (2002)

In this supernatural horror film, salvage crew members discover a derelict Italian cruise liner that holds a dark secret. As they uncover the ship’s eerie history, they are drawn into a terrifying mystery.

27. Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked (2011)

An animated comedy where the Chipmunks and Chipettes embark on a cruise that turns chaotic when they get shipwrecked on a deserted island. The film combines humor, music, and life lessons as they learn to survive and work together to find a way back home. It’s a family-friendly adventure within the “Alvin and the Chipmunks” film series.

28. The Parent Trap (1998)

Is a family comedy about identical twin sisters, Annie and Hallie, who meet at summer camp and decide to switch places to reunite their divorced parents. The film is known for its humour, heartwarming moments, and Lindsay Lohan’s dual role performance. It’s a beloved family classic that emphasises the importance of love and unity.

29. Triangle (2009)

A psychological horror film about a group of friends stranded on an abandoned ocean liner after a storm. As they face eerie events, one of them, Jess, experiences unsettling deja vu and realises they are caught in a twisted loop of time, leading to a mind-bending and suspenseful story. The film is known for its inventive storytelling and psychological horror elements.

Enjoy a Little Cruise Fix with these Fabulous Movies About Cruise Ships

There’s nothing like the real thing but the world of cruise ship movies is a captivating realm that offers a wide array of genres, from romance and comedy to disaster and horror.

These films transport us to the high seas, where adventures, mysteries, and emotions unfold against the backdrop of these magnificent vessels. Whether you’re seeking thrills, laughter, or romance, the movies set on cruise ships provide an engaging and immersive cinematic experience that lets you sail away from reality for a while.

If You Are Movie Fans Also See

• Harry Potter Locations to Visit in Edinburgh
• Harry Potter Movies in Order
• Marvel Movies in Watch Order