Seasickness Tips: Why It Happens and How to Combat It While Boating

Seasickness is a common ailment when boating. Discover the best tips to alleviate discomfort, for smooth sailing, no matter the waves.

Seasickness, also known as motion sickness, is a common condition that can occur when a person is on a boat, regardless of its size. Many people get sick on small boats and even watercraft like kayaks, where you can feel every bit of movement, but a large number of people also experience seasickness on even the largest cruise ships, just by seeing the waves. Seasickness is actually caused by the motion of the water, which can disrupt the balance within the inner ear. Resulting symptoms include nausea and vomiting, as well as dizziness. For avid boaters, this affliction can be a real bother, hindering them from enjoying their experience on the water or even keeping them off boats entirely. Here, we dive into the best ways to combat even the worst seasickness.

Fresh Air

It may seem counterintuitive, but going outside can really help reduce the nauseating feeling associated with seasickness. Fresh air is one of the best medicines for motion sickness, so even though going to the top deck to get some air may seem like it’ll worsen the effect when you see the waves, it actually can heal you completely. Moreso, many seasoned boaters recommend looking at the horizon to “balance” yourself and help seasickness subside. Talk about a lifesaver!

Medication

There are a number of medications available at your local drugstore that can help to prevent or alleviate seasickness; the most well-known is Dramamine. Also known generically as Dimenhydrinate, Dramamine is an antihistamine that is used to prevent and treat common symptoms associated with motion sickness, including nausea and dizziness. It comes in many forms, including oral tablets, liquid, and patches to be worn behind the ear. Many boaters who know they are prone to seasickness will put these on before they even get onboard.

Acupressure

Acupressure is a form of alternative medicine in which physical pressure is applied to “pressure points” on the body. Generally, this treatment is used to reduce pain and treat symptoms. The specific pressure points are believed to correspond to particular organs or systems in the body, so the pressure applied is believed to stimulate the flow of energy to those places and through the body. It is similar to acupuncture but instead uses finger pressure. Acupressure is often used to treat a variety of conditions, including headaches, back pain, and–you guessed it–motion sickness. For seasickness, acupressure can work wonders. There are even special wristbands that apply pressure to the P6 (Nei Guan) acupressure point on the wrist, which can help to alleviate symptoms and discomfort. There there really will be no pressure!

Distraction

It may seem silly, but distraction is one of the best treatments for seasickness. For some, the focus on the rough seas or even simply the view itself can get them feeling sick. Getting your mind off the sick feeling and away from the sight of the water can help more than you know–grab some reading material or watch a movie to distract yourself from how you’re feeling. Often, that’s more than enough to do the trick (literally).

Snacks

Most people aren’t thinking about eating when they’re feeling nauseous. However, having a snack or small meal can really help with seasickness. Being on an empty stomach can actually worsen nausea, so eating something can put some of that stomach unease at bay. Better yet, having a light meal before boarding can stabilize your stomach and actually prevent seasickness altogether. Bon appetite and bon voyage!

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