Seasickness on cruises: tips, tricks and remedies

Seasickness is often among the most common answers in surveys exploring why people hesitate before booking their first cruise.

Here, we’re exploring how common the condition is among cruisers and what to do to minimise its impact if we suffer from it.

Seasickness is rare on modern ships

First, it’s important to mention that seasickness is much less common on modern cruise ships than you might think. Thanks to advancements in engineering and design, today’s vessels are built to minimise the motion felt onboard. 

Most large ships, for example, have stabiliser fins. These fins extend underwater and counteract the ship’s rolling motion, even in rough seas. This technology makes the ride smoother and more stable, reducing the likelihood of seasickness.

Plus, the sheer size of contemporary cruise liners plays a significant role. These floating cities are far more stable than smaller boats because of their weight and structure. Popular cruise routes also favour calmer waters, like the Mediterranean or Caribbean. 

As a result, while the fear of seasickness is understandable, most passengers never encounter significant issues during their journey.

Understanding seasickness

Seasickness, a form of motion sickness, appears when the brain receives mixed signals from the inner ear and the eyes. If you're inside a cabin without windows, your inner ear senses the ship's movement, but your eyes don't see it. This confuses the brain and results in discomfort.

Choosing the right cabin

Your cabin's location can significantly influence your susceptibility to seasickness. You should opt for a mid-ship cabin and on a lower deck, as this area experiences the least movement. 

A cabin with a window or balcony can also help by allowing you to focus on the horizon, which can stabilise your senses.

Medications and remedies

Several over-the-counter medications can help prevent or alleviate seasickness:

• Hyoscine hydrobromide patches: These patches are applied behind the ear. They release medication over time and are effective for up to three days. Apply the patches at least eight hours before exposure to motion. They are usually not suitable for children under 10.
• Antihistamines: Medications such as cinnarizine can also be effective. You should take them before symptoms start, as they are more effective preventatively.

Natural remedies

Although hard evidence of the effectiveness of natural remedies to ease seasickness, some cruisers report finding the following useful:

• Ginger: Consuming ginger, whether in pill form, as a candy, or in tea, can help alleviate nausea. It's easy to keep handy during your cruise.
• Peppermint: Sucking on peppermint candy or smelling peppermint oil can also help reduce symptoms.
• Acupressure bands: these are another natural way to alleviate seasickness. These bands apply pressure to specific points believed to control nausea. But, their effectiveness seems to vary from person to person.

Other ways to combat seasickness

These tips can also help you keep sickness at bay on a cruise:

• Stay hydrated and eat lightly: Dehydration and heavy meals can exacerbate symptoms. Opt for light, non-greasy foods and drink enough water
• Get fresh air: Spending time on deck can help. If the weather permits, take a stroll outside.
• Focus on the horizon: Fixing your gaze on a stable point, like the horizon, can help your brain reconcile the motion signals.
• Avoid reading or screens: Focusing up close can worsen symptoms. Instead, engage in conversations or listen to music.

Get medical advice

Before your cruise, ask for advice from your GP or local medical practice, especially if you're prone to motion sickness. They can recommend the most suitable medications or remedies based on your health profile.

By taking these proactive steps, you can minimise the risk of seasickness and enjoy a more comfortable and pleasant cruise experience.