1. Plot Summary

Samantha and her teenage daughter Ellie book a sailboat getaway for spring break. But their relaxing excursion turns sinister when the charismatic captain Javier reveals ulterior motives: he’s plotting to kidnap Samantha in a disturbing “bride-for-cash” scheme. With danger closing in, the duo must rely on courage and wit to survive.

2. Notable Elements

• Mother-daughter dynamic: Armstrong and DeBerry bring warmth and authenticity, grounding the thriller in familial bond even under threat. Their banter and shared fear feel real.

• Javier’s creep factor: Callard Harris’s portrayal of the sleazy captain strikes the right mix of charm and menace, making the threat palpably unsettling.

• Tense atmosphere: The open water setting adds isolation and vulnerability—and the confined boat becomes a pressure cooker of dread.

• Plot twists: The film delivers occasional narrative surprises, earning praise from some viewers for keeping suspense alive.
  Shortcomings:

• Critics note the storytelling slips into melodrama and requires some suspension of disbelief; characters sometimes act implausibly.

3. Themes and Messages

Deadly Excursion explores trust, authority, and exploitation, warning that appearances can mislead and isolation amplifies risk. Although not holiday-themed, it resonates with cautionary holiday morality tales—embracing vigilance when adventure beckons.

4. Personal Impressions

Strengths:

• Armstrong anchors the film with emotional truth, making the danger feel personal.

• The oceanic setting is understated yet effective—waves and wind become enemies.

• Harris’s performance keeps you uneasily glued to his gaze.

Weaknesses:

• Certain plot developments hinge on convenience or naïveté, which may frustrate detail-oriented viewers.

• Story logic weakens in places—some choices feel forced to sustain tension.

5. Audience Recommendations

✔ Recommend to:

• Viewers who enjoy character-driven thrillers with maternal focus and psychological suspense.

• Fans of made-for-TV suspense like those airing on Lifetime or Peacock.

🚫 Not for:

• Those expecting high-budget production values, nuanced logic, or gritty realism.

6. Conclusion & Rating

Deadly Excursion isn’t perfect, but it delivers a tense, character-led cruise into danger. With strong lead performances and a setting that amplifies every heartbeat, it’s compelling TV-thriller fare—quibble with believability if you must, but it’s enjoyable in the moment.
Final Recommendation: A solid pick for light-to-moderate thriller fans seeking suspense on the water.
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5 stars)