10 Ways to Avoid Seasickness on a Cruise Ship

Motion sickness is way more common than you probably think. According to a study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine, about one in three individuals is highly susceptible to motion sickness, and the rest of the population may experience motion sickness under extreme conditions.

First-time cruisers or people who are not used to motion sickness could be at more risk, but even many seasoned travelers have to deal with this troublesome condition.

I’ve had my fair share of seasickness over my 10+ years of cruising, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way to help prevent it.

Choose the Right Cabin 

I think I’ve already said this many times in articles on my blog, but it’s always useful to underline it.

You’re more likely to experience seasickness if in areas of the ship that move the most, like at the front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship.

So the next time you book a cabin, choose somewhere in the midship area, which is the one that remains most stable. In a similar way, lower decks tend to be more stable and experience less motion than higher ones. Keep that in mind when you book.

Get a Good Night’s Rest 

Traveling can be exciting, so I wouldn’t blame you for tossing and turning the day before the trip. I still do, and it’s wonderful to be excited about a trip, but unfortunately, it’s not a good thing for those who get seasick.

Tiredness and lack of sleep can worsen the effects of motion sickness, making you feel nauseated quickly. Be sure to get a good night’s sleep before your cruise so your body is well-rested. 

Similarly, try to get enough sleep and take time to relax while you’re on the ship. You can have a look at the article when I’ve explained how you can sleep like a baby when you’re on a cruise ship.

Eat Light and Stay Hydrated 

It’s no mystery: heavy, greasy, deep-fried, or spicy foods can trigger seasickness, so stick to light, healthy meals. If you feel nauseous, opt for crackers, bananas, apples, or toasted bread. 

In addition, remember that you should also keep yourself hydrated throughout your cruise because dehydration can worsen symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and nausea. 

Drink plenty of water and juice, always in small sips and never in large quantities all at once. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can worsen the symptoms of motion. 

Look at the Horizon 

Seasickness happens when the movement you see differs from what your inner ear senses. 

Looking at the horizon gives your eyes a steady point to focus on, matching what your body feels. 

As you look out, take deep breaths and try to relax your body and muscles. Don’t look down into the water, as watching the waves can be disorienting. 

Avoid Strong Odors and Stuffy Areas 

Strong smells like engine fumes, perfume, and food can trigger nausea.

Stay in well-ventilated spaces and take deep breaths of fresh air if you start to feel unwell. If your cabin feels stuffy, turn on the air conditioning or open the balcony door if you have one. 

If you’re in an inside cabin, remember that you can ask your cabin steward for a small fan. It’s among the items they can provide for free.

Avoid Screens and Reading 

Just like how you’d feel queasy when reading a book or using your phone in the car, the same can happen while on a cruise. 

Looking down at a screen for long periods can make you feel sick, so minimize your screen time while on board. 

If you want to read, take breaks in between and look out at the horizon now and again. 

Try Natural Remedies

Another great way to prevent seasickness is to drink herbal teas like ginger or peppermint tea, which are known to ease nausea. 

You can also pack ginger candies or peppermint lozenges. Keep it in your bag and pop them in your mouth when you start getting seasick. 

You usually find herbal teas at the buffet. Last time I was on Royal Caribbean, there were several that included ginger and peppermint.

Snack Often 

An empty stomach can make you feel ill. So, make sure you eat something light when needed.

Once again, if you feel seasick, pay attention to what you eat. Avoid liquid foods such as soups or broths, prefer dry, salty foods such as crackers, rusks, or dry bread.

Traditionally, apples are considered a good remedy for seasickness. On my last cruise, there was a day when the sea was especially rough, and I started feeling nauseous while I was at the restaurant, so I went back to my cabin.

Very kindly, the restaurant manager sent a peeled apple to my room, saying it’s a natural remedy they often use on board.

Take Motion Sickness Medication 

If all else fails, and you have pretty severe seasickness, turn to medication. There are many types of medication available, so remember to ask your pharmacist or doctor before you travel.

Over the years, I’ve tried everything: bracelets, patches, drops, and pills. Some things didn’t work for me at all, while others made me really drowsy.

Lately, I’ve started using Bonine, and I have to say it might be the best option for me. It works and doesn’t make me sleepy, plus it’s super convenient since I can just get it on Amazon. I’m leaving a button below in case it might be helpful for you too.

Some will wonder if they can be found directly on the ship. Usually, yes, you can buy remedies on the ship, but I always recommend that you bring them from home.

First of all, they are more expensive if bought on board, and there isn’t always as much availability, and you might not find what you are looking for.

Remember to check all the other 10 things to bring from home on a cruise to save money.