Getting seasick on a cruise can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. The good news is that modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers that significantly reduce motion, and there are plenty of proven strategies to keep that queasy feeling at bay.
While some people are naturally more susceptible to motion sickness than others, almost everyone can enjoy a cruise with the right preparation and techniques. Most seasickness remedies work best when you start them before you even set foot on the ship.
Here is a list of 16 practical ways to avoid cruise seasickness and ensure your time at sea stays enjoyable.
Choose a Midship Cabin
The middle of the ship experiences the least amount of motion because it’s the pivot point for the vessel’s movement. Think of it like sitting in the center of a seesaw rather than at either end.
Cabins located toward the front or back of the ship will feel more of the rocking motion, especially during rough weather.
Book a Lower Deck Cabin
Lower deck cabins are closer to the ship’s center of gravity, which means less movement overall. The higher up you go, the more you’ll feel like you’re on top of a swaying tree.
Many experienced cruisers swear by cabins on decks 6-8 as the sweet spot for stability.
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Get a Cabin with a Window or Balcony
Having a visual connection to the horizon helps your brain reconcile what your inner ear is feeling with what your eyes are seeing. This visual reference point is one of the most effective natural remedies for motion sickness.
Interior cabins can feel claustrophobic and make seasickness worse since you lose that crucial visual anchor.
Start Motion Sickness Medication Early
Begin taking over-the-counter motion sickness pills at least an hour before boarding, and continue as directed throughout your cruise. Popular options include Dramamine, Bonine, and meclizine.
Don’t wait until you feel sick to start taking them, as they work much better as a preventive measure.
Pack Ginger Supplements
Ginger has been used for centuries to combat nausea, and modern studies back up its effectiveness. You can take ginger capsules, chew ginger candy, or sip ginger tea throughout your cruise.
Crystallized ginger works particularly well and tastes pretty good, too.
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Stay Hydrated Throughout Your Trip
Dehydration can make seasickness symptoms much worse, so drink plenty of water before and during your cruise. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
Keep a water bottle with you and take regular sips even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Eat Light, Frequent Meals
Heavy, greasy foods can make seasickness worse, while an empty stomach can trigger nausea just as easily. Stick to bland, easily digestible foods like crackers, toast, and bananas when the seas get rough.
Think of your stomach like a washing machine – you want it partially full but not overloaded.
Get Fresh Air on Deck
Fresh air and the ability to see the horizon can work wonders for seasickness. When you start feeling queasy, head to an outdoor deck and find a spot where you can look out at the water.
The combination of fresh air and visual stability often provides immediate relief.
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Focus on the Horizon
When you’re on deck, keep your eyes on the distant horizon rather than watching the waves or looking down at the water directly below. The horizon remains relatively stable and gives your brain a fixed reference point to work with.
This technique is used by sailors and fishermen worldwide.
Use Acupressure Wristbands
These simple fabric bands apply pressure to specific points on your wrists that are believed to reduce nausea. While the scientific evidence is mixed, many people swear by them, and they have no side effects.
They’re inexpensive and worth trying, especially in combination with other prevention methods.
Avoid Reading During Rough Seas
Looking down at books, phones, or tablets while the ship is moving can trigger motion sickness quickly. Your inner ear feels the motion while your eyes focus on something stationary, creating a sensory conflict.
Save the reading for calmer waters or when you’re in a stable central location.
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Stay Active and Keep Moving
Lying down and being inactive can make seasickness worse for many people. Take walks around the ship, participate in activities, and keep yourself occupied.
Movement helps your body adjust to the ship’s motion, and staying busy keeps your mind off any queasiness you might feel.
Choose Cruise Times During Calmer Seasons
Caribbean cruises during hurricane season or North Atlantic crossings will have rougher seas than cruises during calmer months. Research typical weather patterns for your destination and choose sailing dates when the seas are generally smoother.
Your travel agent can help you identify the best times for calm sailing.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol can worsen seasickness symptoms and interfere with your balance and spatial awareness. While cruise ship bars are certainly tempting, moderation is key, especially during the first day or two when you’re still adjusting.
Save the tropical drinks for when you’re feeling completely stable.
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Pack Crackers and Plain Snacks
Bring along some saltine crackers, plain cookies, or other bland snacks to keep in your cabin. Having something light to nibble on can help settle your stomach when you first wake up or if you start feeling queasy between meals.
The crew can also provide crackers from room service if needed.
Try Peppermint Essential Oil
A small dab of peppermint oil on your temples or under your nose can help reduce nausea symptoms. Some people find that just the scent of peppermint is enough to settle their stomach.
You can also pack peppermint candy or gum as a more convenient alternative.
From Ancient Remedies to Modern Comfort
The battle against seasickness has come a long way from the days when sailors had no choice but to tough it out during rough voyages. Today’s combination of ship technology, medical advances, and time-tested natural remedies means that seasickness doesn’t have to ruin your cruise experience.
Most people find that even if they feel a bit queasy on their first day, their bodies quickly adapt to life at sea. The key is preparation and having multiple strategies ready to deploy if needed, turning what could be a miserable experience into the relaxing vacation you planned for.
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