TOP 5 SAILING MOVIES & BOOKS

Staff Picks For Their Top Sailing Themed Movies And Books

Escape to a different oasis for a little bit with one of our staffs' favourite movies or novels. The Toronto team from North Sails has shared their favourite sailing themed novels and flicks to dive into when things get a little rocky. We hope you enjoy these as much as we do and share some of your favourites as well.

Top 5 Movies / Documentaries

Maiden

An inspirational story that keeps you hooked the moment it starts on the screen with its classic footage and heartfelt interviews. Based upon on a true-story, Maiden follows 26 year old Tracey Edwards and their crew on their quest to become the first-ever-all-woman to compete in the Whitbread race. The book, written by Edwards, is also a fantastic read on the entire endeavour and what followed afterwards.

Wind

While some may say it's cheesy, it is still an awesome sailing packed film with amazing 12m and i14 scenes. Released in 1992, Wind follows Will Parker on his quest to win back the America's Cup from the Austrians in the early 1980s. The film star's Jennifer Grey, Joe Heisler and Matthew Modine as well as a host of other actors and actresses. No one can forget the classic "Whomper" scene towards the end of the film. A must watch for every sailing fanatic!

Morning Light

Follow along as sailors compete for a spot on Roy Disney's Morning Light, a TP52 competing in the 44th Transpac Yacht Race. Eleven sailors are selected and trained with world-class instructors to help them prepare for the 2,300 mile race. A heart warming story that showcases the will power, determination and strength of young sailors determined to prove themselves in the prestigious race. One of the young competitors in the film you'll see vying for one of the spots is Volvo Ocean Race sailor and North Sails expert Charlie Enright.

Under 30

Available on Amazon Prime, this documovie follows Team Brunel during the 2017-18 Volvo Ocean Race focusing on two members of the team who are under 30: Louis Balcaen and Rokas Milevicius. An absolutely amazing piece which highlights the life changing adventures of the two young sailors from start to finish of sailing's toughest race. A life changing experience that takes the two sailors around the world with some of the best sailors around, creating a bond that will hold them together forever. Hands down must watch!

Captain Ron

A feel good favourite for the whole family featuring funny man Martin Short, Mary Kay Place and Kurt Russell. Share a laugh as Martin Harvey (Short) inherits a boat from his uncle in the Carribbean for his family vacation, only to discover upon arrival, the rough state of the boat and their over the top skipper Captain Ron (Russell) as they head out to sea.

Top 5 Books

Against the Flow by Dee Caffari

First solo round the world sailor, Dee Caffari shares her story of stepping outside her comfort zone and achieving her dream. Discover how the then teacher became a record-making yachtswoman through her journey sailing the wrong way around the world.

The Billionaire and The Mechanic by Julian Guthrie

Discover how Larry Ellison teamed up with a car mechanic to win the America's Cup with Oracle Team USA.

Godforsaken Sea by Derek Lundy

Classic story for the 1997 Vendee Globe Race, a favourite of our North Sails expert Doug Folsetter.

Sailing on the Edge: America's Cup by Bob Fisher and Kimball Livingston

Going behind the scenes of the oldest sailing race that has inspired sailors all over for more than 150 years. Beautiful photos accompany this compelling and comprehensive read. A wonderful addition to any sailing library and favourite of team member Louisa Bobyk.

Against the Odds by Doug Hunter

Discover the story of Evergreen in the 1979 Canada's Cup. Featuring local sailors Don Green, Steve Killing, John Fitzpatrick and Al Megarry to name a few.

Beyond Endurance Adam Mayers

Learn about the famous 1979 Fastnet race which claimed the lives of 15 competitors and local boat Evergreen competed in.