One of the top reasons I hear for not wanting to cruise is “I’m afraid I’ll get sick”. I totally get it as that was my #1 reason as well.
See, I’m very susceptible to motion sickness. I love roller coasters, but the feeling isn’t mutual! If there are loops, corkscrews, or any other rapid change of directions, I’m toast. The list of great roller coasters I can no longer ride just keeps getting longer. For Lynn, it’s just the opposite. She loves coasters and they love her right back!
Fortunately this tendency has not transferred over to cruising. After 25+ cruises, I can say I’ve only felt queasy a couple of times and it was when we were dealing 15′-18′ seas. Fortunately seas that high are not the norm, certainly not for the typical Caribbean cruise.
All this being said, seasickness may be a real concern for a number of you reading this post and that’s ok. All is not lost. With a little planning, you can still cruise and have a great time!
If you’re concerned about seasickness, or perhaps have suffered from it, here are 10 tips to help you get through it and not only survive, but thrive:
- Choose the right cabin: This is where I come in to help. If a client expresses a concern regarding seasickness, I always suggest they opt for a cabin in the middle of the ship and on a lower deck, as these areas tend to experience less movement.
- Keep your eyes on the horizon: Focusing on a fixed point in the distance can help your brain better adjust to the motion of the ship. Similar principle as ice skaters when they spin.
- Take medication: Over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or Bonine can help prevent seasickness. Alternatively, you can use prescription medications like scopolamine patches. I can’t tell you how many people I see wearing patches. I just know it’s a bunch! Of course it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, but avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can make seasickness symptoms worse.
- Eat small, bland meals: Not what you want to hear when going on a cruise, but avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods. Instead, opt for small, bland meals until the seas and your stomach settle down a bit. Ginger can also help settle your stomach, so consider bringing ginger candies or ginger tea.
- Get fresh air: Spend time outdoors on deck where you can get fresh air and have a better sense of the ship’s motion.
- Use acupressure bands: Some people find relief from seasickness by wearing acupressure bands on their wrists. These bands apply pressure to specific points that are believed to alleviate nausea.
- Rest and relax: Try to rest and relax as much as possible. Stress and fatigue can worsen seasickness, so finding ways to unwind can help alleviate symptoms.
- Stay cool: Avoid getting overheated, as this can worsen nausea. Seek out air-conditioned areas of the ship if you start to feel too warm.
- Distract yourself: Engage in activities that take your mind off the motion of the ship, such as taking in a show, listening to music, or watching a movie.
Remember, everyone’s experience with seasickness is different, so it may take some trial and error to find the strategies that work best for you. However, if your seasickness persists or becomes severe, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention from the ship’s medical staff.
