Will You Get Seasick On A Cruise?
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When talking to a first-time potential cruiser, the most common question is, “Will I get seasick?” It’s a valid concern, and the good news is that modern cruise ships, thoughtful planning, and simple precautions can make seasickness a rare occurrence or at least manageable.
Let’s dive into what you need to know.
What Modern Ships Do to Prevent Seasickness
Cruise lines have invested heavily in technology to ensure passengers enjoy smooth sailing. Modern ships are equipped with advanced stabilizers, which are large fins attached to the hull that reduce the ship’s roll. These stabilizers are especially effective in calm to moderate seas, significantly minimizing the motion you feel onboard.
In addition to stabilizers, many cruise ships have state-of-the-art navigation systems and experienced captains who can alter courses to avoid bad weather. Cruise lines also carefully plan itineraries around seasons with the most favorable conditions, reducing the risk of rough seas.
That said, anyone who promises you that “You won’t even feel the movement” is not telling the truth. I hear this constantly, and I’ve felt movement every single time I’ve been on a ship. It’s not always a bad thing, but you will feel movement.
Which Itineraries Are Most Likely to Have Rough Waters
While most cruises are smooth, certain itineraries are more prone to rough seas. Transatlantic crossings, trips around Cape Horn in South America, and cruises in the North Atlantic during winter can encounter choppier waters. Similarly, the Bay of Biscay and parts of the Pacific Ocean can be unpredictable.
I’m sure you’ve heard of Drakes Passage on the way to Antarctica; its the most famous rough water location in cruising, often called the “Drake Shake”. Thankfully, most cruises don’t offer that much excitement when it comes to rocky rides.
If you’re particularly concerned about seasickness, consider cruising in regions known for calm waters, like the Caribbean, Alaska’s Inside Passage, or the Mediterranean during summer.
The most movement I’ve felt on cruises has been
- Tasman Sea (October for reference)
- Between Vancouver, Canada and Juneau, Alaska (August)
- Bahamas to Fort Lauderdale (December)
- Between Greece and Italy (October)
Winter Caribbean and Mexico sailings can have rough waters, while cruising in the spring and fall usually are smoother sailing. Hurricane season is November in the Caribbean, and while you won’t ever be sailing in the path of a hurricane, winds can still create a more rocky sailing.
How to Choose a Cabin to Prevent Seasickness
The location of your cabin can make a significant difference in how much motion you feel. For the smoothest experience:
- Choose a midship cabin, as this is the ship’s center of gravity and has the least motion.
- Opt for a lower deck, as cabins closer to the waterline experience less sway than those on higher decks.
- Consider cabins with a window or balcony. While these won’t reduce motion, having a view of the horizon can help orient your body and relieve symptoms of seasickness.
You’ll be able to feel the differences as you roam about the ship. You can feel the most movement when on an upper deck or far forward or aft of the ship. If you are in choppy waters, head to a lower deck in a midship location to reduce movement.
Your ship selection matters, too. Sailing on a large ship generally leads to feeling less movement. On a smaller ship like Disney Dream or Wonder, I feel more movement regardless of the weather than on a larger ship like NCL Viva or Carnival Horizon.
How to Prevent Seasickness
There are several steps you can take to minimize the chances of feeling unwell:
- Medications: Over-the-counter options like Dramamine or Bonine are effective for many people. If you’re prone to severe motion sickness, your doctor may prescribe a scopolamine patch.
- Natural Remedies: Ginger, available in candies, teas, or supplements, is a well-known remedy for nausea. Acupressure wristbands, like Sea-Bands, can also help some travelers. Green apples are also said to help.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen nausea, so drink plenty of water throughout your cruise. I bring liquid IV with me on every sailing to help keep me hydrated.
- Avoid Heavy Meals: Eating light meals and avoiding greasy or spicy foods before and during your cruise can reduce the risk of an upset stomach.
What to Do If You Get Seasick
Even with all the precautions, some passengers may still experience seasickness. If this happens, here’s how to find relief:
- Go Outside: Fresh air and focusing on the horizon can help stabilize your senses.
- Lie Down: Resting in a quiet area, preferably midship, can reduce motion sensitivity.
- Visit the Medical Center: Cruise ships have medical staff who can provide anti-nausea medication or other treatments.
- Try Ginger or Peppermint: Sipping ginger tea or sucking on peppermint candies can help soothe nausea.
- Talk to your waiter or room attendant: The crew has dealt with seasickness many times and will often have helpful tips or offer suggestions. My room steward knew I wasn’t feeling well on my last sailing and brought me a coke. She said the sugar and the caffeine tend to help.
Smooth Sailing Ahead
While seasickness is a common concern for first-time cruisers, modern ships, thoughtful planning, and simple remedies mean that most people enjoy their cruise without any issues.
With the proper preparation, you can focus on the adventure, relaxation, and incredible experiences you can only have on a cruise.
