White Squall

The film is based on the fate of the brigantine Albatross, which sank May 2, 1961, allegedly because of a white squall. The film relates the ill-fated school sailing trip led by Dr. Christopher B. Sheldon, whom the boys call "Skipper". He is tough and teaches them discipline. He forms a close connection with well-off Chuck Gieg, troubled rich kid Frank Beaumont, shy Gil Martin and bad boy Dean Preston. On the first days, it is discovered that Gil suffers from acrophobia when he fails to aid the choking Chuck who becomes entangled after slipping from a mast. He is instead saved by Skipper Sheldon while Gil is ordered to climb the ropes, something he ultimately cannot do, and is therefore assigned limited duty on board.