The vast, mysterious expanse of the sea has long been a source of both wonder and fear. This curated list of horror films set at sea taps into that primal fear of the unknown, offering viewers a unique blend of suspense, terror, and the eerie isolation of being surrounded by water. Whether it's the fear of what lies beneath the waves or the claustrophobia of being trapped on a ship, these films explore the ocean's dark side, making them perfect for those who crave a nautical nightmare.

The Fog (1980)
Description: A coastal town is besieged by a mysterious fog that brings with it vengeful spirits from a shipwreck, showcasing the sea's vengeful side.
Fact: John Carpenter directed this film, which became a cult classic for its eerie atmosphere.


The Perfect Storm (2000)
Description: While not strictly a horror film, the real-life terror of facing a monstrous storm at sea makes it a gripping tale of survival against nature's wrath.
Fact: The film was based on the book by Sebastian Junger, detailing the 1991 storm.


Ghost Ship (2002)
Description: A salvage crew discovers a long-lost passenger ship, only to find it haunted by the ghosts of its passengers, blending sea horror with supernatural elements.
Fact: The film's opening scene, featuring a gruesome dance floor massacre, became infamous.


Open Water (2003)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a couple left behind by their dive boat, facing the perils of the open ocean and its inhabitants.
Fact: The film was shot with real sharks, adding to the authenticity of the terror.


The Shallows (2016)
Description: A surfer is stranded on a rock 200 yards from shore, with a great white shark circling, creating a tense, survival horror scenario.
Fact: The film was praised for its simple yet effective premise and Blake Lively's performance.


The Ghost Ship (1943)
Description: A classic tale of a ship with a dark secret, where the crew begins to disappear under mysterious circumstances, adding a supernatural twist to maritime horror.
Fact: The film was part of Val Lewton's series of low-budget horror films at RKO, known for their atmospheric tension.


DeepStar Six (1989)
Description: This film combines the terror of deep-sea exploration with the claustrophobia of an underwater base, where the crew faces an ancient sea creature.
Fact: It was one of several underwater horror films released in the late '80s, competing with "Leviathan" and "The Abyss."


DeepStar Six (1989)
Description: A deep-sea military installation faces an unknown creature, showcasing the terror of the deep ocean's unexplored regions.
Fact: The film was part of a wave of underwater horror movies in the late '80s.


Leviathan (1989)
Description: A mining crew discovers a sunken Russian ship and inadvertently unleashes a mutated creature, blending horror with sci-fi elements.
Fact: The film was inspired by "Alien" and "The Thing," but set in the ocean depths.


The Triangle (2001)
Description: A TV movie that delves into the Bermuda Triangle's mysteries, where a ship encounters supernatural phenomena, blending horror with mystery.
Fact: The film features a mix of real-life legends and fictional horror elements.
