Besting Motion Sickness on the High Seas
I started cruising regularly in 2022, and I thought I was ready, but I was so wrong!
My prior cruising experience had me thinking that seasickness would not come for me, but it sure did, and in a the most unkind way. Let me explain.
My first cruise at age seven was smooth sailing—no queasiness, just pure joy. Fast forward to my late twenties, and I confidently embarked on a three-night cruise, feeling invincible and seasickness-free.
So, when I signed up for a seven-day cruise, I thought, "Piece of cake!" Boy, was I wrong! The first night, I found myself battling a sensation of rolling and swaying that made me feel like my body was doing a weird dance. Nausea hit me like a ton of bricks, and I could barely leave my bed. Thankfully, my mom had meds for my dad, and there was enough to save me from a week of misery.
But what if she hadn’t been there? Would I have sworn off cruises forever? Maybe! And I would have missed out on so much. I’m so glad that wasn’t the case. And it doesn't have to be your story either! Now that I’ve had several cruises under my belt (and I won’t tell you how many more I’ve planned) here’s how to make sure seasickness doesn’t rock your boat, with five tips to help you conquer the waves.
*Quick Disclaimer. This blog is intended to provide useful information, absolutely! However, I am not a medical professional! This article is not for medical advice, rather a useful guide and starting point designed to give you helpful information to plan for motionsickness so that you can enjoy your cruise! Please consult a medical professional to get the best advice for you. Now let’s get into the good part!
1. Consult Your Doctor: Because You Deserve Smooth Sailing without Seasickness!
Ready to set sail? First, have a chat with your doctor. Seriously, this could be your game-changer. They can prescribe medications that are like magic wands against nausea. For instance, my go-to is dissolvable Zofran tablets, which dissolve under your tongue faster than you can say "Bon Voyage!"—and they work wonders. Another superhero in the anti-nausea lineup is the transdermal scopolamine patch, a tiny sticker behind your ear that packs a big punch against dizziness.
Pro tip: Start taking these meds before you step foot on the ship; following doctor’s orders of course. Get ahead of the game and let the medication settle into your system. It's like pre-gaming, but for nausea—guaranteed to make your cruise a breeze!
2. Go Natural: Ginger to the Rescue! (Maybe?)
Prefer a more natural approach? You may be in luck! There is research to suggest that ginger may alleviate the effects of motionsickness. Check out this article here from Science Direct.
Ginger has been the go-to for centuries when it comes to fighting nausea. Whether you munch on ginger candies, sip ginger tea, or pop ginger tablets, this root has got your back. And if you’re feeling fancy, fresh ginger slices work too!
I will say that I've found conflicting information on the efficacy of ginger in preventing or managing motion sickness. Some swear by it, while others find it less effective (I found another article linked here suggesting that ginger may not have an effect on certain side effects of motion sickness). So, it’s always best to get medical recommendations to ensure you're choosing the right remedy for your needs.
Bonine is a company trusted by many for seasickness remedies. Check out this link to it’s ginger root capsules.
3. Over-the-Counter Aces: Your Sea Legs’ Best Friends to Prevent Cruise Seasickness
If you're a fan of convenience, over-the-counter remedies like Dramamine and Meclizine are go-tos for many. Bonine (a Meclizine provider) provides chewable tablets. Dramamine provides motion-sickness remedies in pill form and in chewable tablets or gummies. They’re readily available at pharmacies and even onboard your cruise ship.
Carnival Cruise Line, for example, offers Meclizine for just $3.29 USD for four pills. Not bad for peace of mind, right? And guess what? Royal Caribbean offers motion sickness medications like eclizine for free at their Medical Centers. Talk about a lifesaver!
You can even find anti-nasuea wristbands to help prevent or manage the effects of seasickness.
Here are links to Bonine and Dramamine options to check out:
Bonus link: Check out this motionsickness patch!
Just remember: it's always smart to check with your doctor before popping any pills, especially if you're already on medication. Safety first! Also, be sure to buy child-friendly remedies for your kiddos!
4. Pick Your Cabin Wisely: The Middle Ground Is Golden (But So Is Adventure!)
Where you sleep can make a big difference. The middle of the ship, on a lower deck, is the sweet spot for minimizing motion. But hey, with my motionsickness meds, I’m able to handle any cabin on the ship (at least so far). With the right meds, you can potentially enjoy the high life on higher decks, too! The key is finding what works for you and rolling with it—literally.
5. Prepare for the Worst: Because You've Got This!
Even with all the precautions, sometimes seasickness can sneak up on you. No worries, though! Here’s a backup plan:
Rest and Stay Hydrated: Keep your energy up and dehydration down. Water and electrolyte rich foods and drinks are your best friend.
Seek Fresh Air: Head to the deck and focus on the horizon. It’s like nature’s anti-nausea screen saver.
Avoid Strong Odors: Say no to overpowering perfumes and strong food smells. Your nose and stomach will thank you (trust me on this one).
Know Your Resources: Familiarize yourself with the ship’s Medical Center and resources before getting on board.
I’ll say it again, consult with your doctor before traveling! Even if you’re pretty sure you won’t have any issues, at least talk to a medical professional to get good guidance on what to do in case the seasickness creeps up on you. Even the most stalwart sailor can have a rough sea day if the ocean is moving and grooving hard enough.
And here's a little secret: some cruises have affordable motion sickness solutions onboard. For instance, Carnival Cruise Line sells Meclizine, and Royal Caribbean gives it away at no cost (based on current research in August 2024!). Having a plan in place means you're ready for anything and can avoid that dreaded trip to the Medical Center.
Final Thoughts: Smooth Sailing Ahead!
Cruising is an incredible way to explore the world, and a little preparation can ensure seasickness doesn't dampen your adventure. Whether you prefer doctor-prescribed meds, natural remedies, or trusty over-the-counter options, there’s a solution out there for you. Remember, your journey is yours to enjoy, so why not make it as comfortable as possible? After all, the only thing you should worry about is the best seat on the pool deck or which shore excursion sounds the most exciting. Happy cruising, and may your seas be calm and your adventures endless!
With love,
Nico
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