Wind, Tide & Oar

5/1/2025

This is quite an entertaining and informative documentary that follows a collection of mariners - both amateur and more professional, as they try to navigate the waterways of England using boats without engines. From small rowing boats to dinghies, sloops and even large-scale clippers that could have the potential - à la the Cutty Sark - to revolutionise the global distribution of goods and people whilst profoundly reducing the environmental impact caused using fossil fuels. Aside from showcasing some of the beauty and ruggedness of the Essex, Norfolk and Cornish scenery, it introduces us to a quirky band of people, often accompanied with some drink-induced sea shanties and a bit of toe-tapping at their aptly named “jolly”. The ingenuity on display here is also remarkable, with skills long