Learn how to protect your self from getting sick on your next cruise.
Don’t let motion sickness ruin your dream cruise vacation! Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, motion sickness can strike unexpectedly. Luckily, with a few simple strategies, you can prevent or treat it effectively.
Here are 12 proven ways to stay comfortable and enjoy smooth sailing on your next cruise.
1. Choose the Right Cabin Location
Selecting the right cabin can help minimize the feeling of motion on a cruise ship. Opt for a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck, as this is the most stable part of the ship. Cabins near the bow (front) or stern (back) experience more motion, which can trigger seasickness. Additionally, rooms with windows or balconies can provide a visual reference to the horizon, which may help your brain adjust to the ship’s movement.
2. Take Medication Before Symptoms Begin
Over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or Bonine are effective in preventing and treating motion sickness. It’s best to take them before symptoms start, especially if you know you’re prone to seasickness. These medications work by blocking signals to the brain that cause nausea and dizziness. Be sure to follow dosage instructions and be aware of potential side effects like drowsiness. For longer cruises, consider asking your doctor about prescription options such as a scopolamine patch.
3. Use Natural Remedies for a Gentle Approach
If you prefer a natural approach, ginger is a well-known remedy for easing nausea. You can take ginger in various forms, such as capsules, tea, or ginger candy. Peppermint is another natural option that can help soothe an upset stomach. Aromatherapy, like inhaling peppermint oil, may provide relief. Acupressure wristbands, designed to target pressure points that alleviate nausea, are another non-medical option that many travelers find effective.
4. Stay Hydrated to Keep Nausea at Bay
Dehydration can worsen motion sickness, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water during your cruise. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration and make symptoms worse. Keeping hydrated helps maintain your body’s equilibrium, making it easier to handle the ship’s movement. Sip water throughout the day, and if you’re feeling queasy, small amounts of ginger ale or herbal tea can help settle your stomach.
5. Avoid Heavy Meals Before Sailing
Eating large, heavy meals before boarding can make you more susceptible to motion sickness. Opt for light, easy-to-digest foods like fruits, vegetables, and crackers instead. Greasy, spicy, or overly rich meals can upset your stomach, especially when combined with the ship’s movement. Stick to small, frequent meals while on board to keep nausea at bay and avoid foods that could trigger discomfort.
6. Spend Time on Deck for Fresh Air
Getting fresh air and keeping your eyes on the horizon can help stabilize your body’s internal sense of balance. If you’re starting to feel queasy, head to the deck and focus on the horizon—it gives your brain a stable reference point. The fresh air can also help reduce nausea and dizziness. Spending time outside can be particularly effective when you feel the ship’s motion the most, such as during rough seas.
7. Stay Active to Distract Your Mind
Engaging in light physical activity can help take your mind off the motion of the ship and alleviate symptoms. Walking around the ship, participating in a yoga class, or swimming in the pool can distract you from feelings of nausea. Gentle exercise also promotes blood flow and keeps you from focusing too much on the sensation of movement. Keeping active is a great way to stay ahead of seasickness.
8. Focus on Calm Breathing Techniques
Practicing deep breathing exercises can help calm your nervous system and reduce the sensation of nausea. Take slow, deep breaths in through your nose and exhale through your mouth to help your body relax. Pairing breathing exercises with visual focus on the horizon can enhance the calming effect. These techniques are easy to practice anywhere on the ship and can be particularly helpful if you feel a wave of motion sickness coming on.
9. Avoid Reading or Screen Time
Focusing on close-up tasks like reading or staring at a phone screen can worsen motion sickness, as it causes a disconnect between your inner ear and visual cues. If you’re prone to seasickness, avoid these activities, especially when the ship is moving. Instead, engage in activities that allow you to keep your eyes on the horizon or look at distant objects, which can help your brain process the ship’s movement more effectively.
10. Take Breaks from Indoor Spaces
Staying inside the ship’s interior can make motion sickness worse due to the lack of fresh air and visual reference points. Taking breaks to go outside or visit areas with large windows can provide relief. Seeing the horizon and getting some fresh air can help recalibrate your body’s balance and reduce nausea. Make it a habit to step outside periodically, especially if you start to feel queasy while indoors.