How to Avoid Seasickness on a Cruise

Cruising offers adventure, relaxation, and endless ocean views. But for some travelers, seasickness can turn excitement into discomfort. Motion sickness happens when your inner ear, eyes, and body send mixed signals to your brain — resulting in nausea, dizziness, or fatigue. The good news? With the right preparation, you can minimize or even avoid seasickness on your next cruise.

This guide breaks down proven tips and tricks to keep you feeling steady at sea.

Choose the Right Cabin Location

Where you stay on the ship makes a difference.

Midship cabins near the waterline feel the least motion.
Avoid cabins at the very front (bow) or back (stern), where movement is stronger.
Balcony cabins give you access to fresh air, which can help.

Start Preventive Measures Early

Don’t wait until you’re feeling queasy.

Take motion sickness medication before boarding if you’re prone to it.
Wear acupressure wristbands designed to ease nausea.
Consider natural remedies like ginger capsules or peppermint tea.

Spend Time Outside

Fresh air and a horizon view help your brain recalibrate.

Go out on deck and focus on the horizon.
Avoid staying in small, enclosed spaces for too long.
Stay cool — heat and stuffiness can worsen symptoms.

Watch What You Eat and Drink

Your diet plays a role in how you feel onboard.

Stick to light, bland meals (crackers, bananas, toast).
Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods.
Stay hydrated, but don’t overdo alcohol or caffeine.

Keep Moving (But Not Too Much)

Light activity helps your body adjust.

Gentle walking on deck can ease queasiness.
Avoid vigorous exercise or reading for long stretches if you’re feeling uneasy.

Use Over-the-Counter and Prescription Options

Medications can be very effective.

Dramamine or Bonine: Popular over-the-counter choices.
Scopolamine patches: Prescription-only, applied behind the ear for long-lasting relief.
Antihistamines: Sometimes recommended for nausea.

👉 Always talk to your doctor before trying new medications.

Choose the Right Cruise and Timing

Larger, newer ships have stabilizers that reduce motion.
Calm waters (like the Caribbean) are easier on beginners than rougher seas (like the North Atlantic).
Shoulder season cruises may have choppier waters.

Distract Yourself

Watch a show, listen to music, or chat with fellow passengers.
Keeping your mind engaged can reduce your focus on nausea.

20 Inspirational Quotes About the Sea and Travel

“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” – Jacques Cousteau
“A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
“To reach a port, we must set sail.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
“The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination, and brings eternal joy to the soul.” – Wyland
“The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea.” – Isak Dinesen
“We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, we are going back from whence we came.” – John F. Kennedy
“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” – André Gide
“You can’t cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water.” – Rabindranath Tagore
“The sea lives in every one of us.” – Wyland
“Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
“The voice of the sea speaks to the soul.” – Kate Chopin
“Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean.” – Ryunosuke Satoro
“The ocean is everything I want to be: beautiful, mysterious, wild, and free.” – Unknown
“Dance with the waves, move with the sea.” – Unknown
“Let the sea set you free.” – Unknown
“There are no limits to the ocean, only horizons.” – Unknown
“Life is simple: just add water.” – Unknown
“May your joys be as deep as the ocean.” – Irish Blessing
“Like seashells, we are beautiful and unique, each with a story to tell.” – Unknown
“Seas the day.” – Unknown

Picture This

Imagine stepping onto the deck, the fresh sea breeze brushing your face. You focus on the horizon, take a deep breath, and feel steady and calm. Later, you sip ginger tea on your balcony, watching the waves roll by without a hint of nausea. Your cruise becomes what it should be — an adventure full of joy, not queasiness.

Have you ever found a seasickness remedy that works perfectly for you?

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If this guide helped you feel more confident about cruising, share it with friends or family who are planning their first voyage.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only. Seasickness remedies vary by individual. Always consult with a healthcare professional before trying new medications or treatments. We disclaim responsibility for outcomes related to this information.