The film follows the story of Charlie Gordon (played by Walter Matthau) and Herb Sullivan (played by Jack Lemmon), two lifelong friends who find themselves in financial trouble. Desperate for money, they concoct a scheme to work as dance hosts aboard a luxury cruise ship, the Sun Princess, where they hope to meet wealthy widows and score free vacations.
Once aboard the ship, Charlie and Herb quickly realize that their plan may not be as easy as they thought. They struggle to keep up with their duties as dance hosts and find themselves in over their heads as they try to navigate the complex social dynamics of the cruise ship.
Complicating matters further is their encounters with the ship’s strict social director, Gil Godwyn (played by Brent Spiner), who becomes suspicious of Charlie and Herb’s true motives. Despite their best efforts to avoid trouble, Charlie and Herb find themselves embroiled in a series of hilarious misadventures and misunderstandings.
As the cruise progresses, Charlie and Herb’s friendship is put to the test as they navigate romantic entanglements and personal conflicts. Herb falls for Liz LaBreche (played by Gloria DeHaven), a wealthy widow who is initially unaware of his true identity, while Charlie finds himself drawn to Vivian (played by Elaine Stritch), a fellow passenger with a sharp wit and a no-nonsense attitude.
In the climax of the film, Charlie and Herb’s scheme is exposed, and they must face the consequences of their actions. However, with the help of their newfound friends and a little bit of luck, they manage to redeem themselves and find love in unexpected places.
In the end, Charlie and Herb return home with their heads held high, having learned valuable lessons about friendship, honesty, and the importance of being true to oneself. Despite the challenges they faced along the way, they emerge from their adventure with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the bonds that unite them.
“Out to Sea” is praised for its charming performances, witty dialogue, and delightful mix of humor and heart. It’s a feel-good comedy that offers audiences a fun and entertaining escape into the world of luxury cruise ships and the colorful characters who inhabit them.