Imagine the open sea, the sun setting on the horizon, and the gentle sway of a cruise ship. Now, imagine that tranquility shattered by the roar of flames. This curated list dives into the heart-pounding genre of movies where cruise ships become fiery infernos. From real-life inspired tales to edge-of-your-seat thrillers, these films offer a gripping look at survival, heroism, and the chaos that ensues when fire strikes at sea. Whether you're a fan of disaster movies or just looking for a thrilling watch, this collection promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Poseidon Adventure (1972)
Description: This classic disaster film features a luxury cruise ship, the SS Poseidon, which is hit by a rogue wave and capsizes, trapping passengers inside. The struggle to survive includes battling fires that break out in the ship's interior.
Fact: The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won two for Best Song and Best Visual Effects.


DeepStar Six (1989)
Description: Although primarily a sci-fi horror, the film includes scenes where a fire breaks out on a submerged military base, which could be likened to the claustrophobic environment of a ship.
Fact: The film was one of several underwater-themed movies released in the late '80s, competing with "The Abyss" and "Leviathan."


Titanic (1997)
Description: While the Titanic's sinking was not caused by fire, the film includes scenes of fires in the ship's boiler rooms, contributing to the chaos.
Fact: The film won 11 Academy Awards, tying the record for the most Oscars won by a single film.


Hard Rain (1998)
Description: Although primarily an action film, it features a heist on a flooded town where a burning boat plays a pivotal role in the plot.
Fact: The film was shot in a specially constructed water tank to simulate the flooding scenes.


The Perfect Storm (2000)
Description: While not directly about a cruise ship, this film includes scenes where the fishing vessel Andrea Gail faces fires and explosions due to the storm's ferocity.
Fact: The film was based on the book by Sebastian Junger, which chronicled the real-life events of the 1991 storm.


Ghost Ship (2002)
Description: This horror film features a deserted cruise ship with a dark history, where a fire plays a significant role in the backstory of the ship's demise.
Fact: The film's opening scene, involving a cable snapping and slicing through a dance floor, became iconic in horror cinema.


The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Description: This disaster epic includes scenes where ships are affected by extreme weather conditions, leading to fires and chaos.
Fact: The film's depiction of weather phenomena was criticized for its scientific inaccuracies but praised for its visual effects.


The Finest Hours (2016)
Description: Based on a true story, this film showcases the Coast Guard's rescue mission during a massive storm, where a tanker ship splits in two, leading to fires and explosions.
Fact: The film was shot in Massachusetts and Nova Scotia to replicate the harsh conditions of the 1952 storm.


The Burning Sea (2021)
Description: While not exclusively about a cruise ship, this Norwegian film deals with an oil platform disaster that leads to a massive fire, which affects nearby ships, including a cruise liner.
Fact: The film is based on real events, specifically the Alexander L. Kielland platform disaster in


The Sea Wolf (1993)
Description: This adaptation of Jack London's novel features a ship where a fire breaks out, adding to the tension and survival elements of the story.
Fact: The film was shot on location in the Pacific Northwest, providing an authentic backdrop for the maritime setting.
