Let's Talk Seasickness

Even the most expert cruisers have experienced seasickness. Depending on the season, such as during hurricane season in the Atlantic, you may expect the waves to be rougher. But in reality, the weather and ocean swells can kick up any time of year. ​

If you are susceptible to seasickness, take that into consideration when booking your cabin. Even an expensive suite isn't always located in the calmest part of the ship. Look for a cabin located in the center of the ship. Then look up and down. The middle decks are your best bet if the seas get rough. It also helps if you have an outside cabin with a window or better yet, a verandah. Ironically, adults typically experience seasickness the most and kids are the least affected. ​

So what do you do to prevent seasickness? ​

Assume the worst and prepare ahead of time! ​I always bring Bonine (adult and child's strengths), a few types of natural ginger candy, and Sea-Bands. ​

Confession...yes, I wear Sea-Bands. They are stretchy bands with an acupressure plastic bead that sits right on the inside of each wrist. They don't contain any kind of medicine so they won't interact with anything you may already be taking (or drinking!) Plus, they really work. I wear them from the moment I get up to when I go to sleep. My family laughs at my Sea-Bands "jewelry" on Formal Night. But I don't get seasick, so I'm not changing a thing. ​​​

I actually love ginger and snack on it even when not at sea. The spiciness is delicious and refreshing (you might be thinking I'm a bit odd by now, but seriously try it.) If you go to Trader Joe's or sometimes found at your grocery store, look for crystallized ginger slices or pieces in the dried fruit section. You can also often find ginger candy in either the pharmacy area or in the candy area of stores as well. They are easy enough to pack in your carry-on and pop one in your mouth if you start feeling the slightest bit queasy. You might even enjoy them like me! 

You can still enjoy yourself, even while wearing Sea-Bands!

Once you are onboard, if you start to feel a bit queasy, here are some easy tricks to remember:

• ​Head Outside. Always best to feel the ocean breeze and focus on the horizon. If you have a balcony, step outside and enjoy the air, or head out to mid-deck where you can choose your best location for a beautiful sunset. 
• Ginger. Fantastic remedy for any kind of motion sickness. Check out the closest bar or lounge and get a ginger ale. The ginger along with the carbonation are sure to help you feel better.
• Green Apples. This is the sailor's secret! Now you know why cruise ships provide green apples as a bountiful display on the buffet or in a fruit bowl in your cabin. The tartness may tame that queasy feeling.​
• Over-The-Counter Medicine. There are many debates on whether Dramamine or Bonine work best. Personally, I find Bonine doesn't make me sleepy and works fairly quickly. If you forget to bring it onboard, you can usually find either one at the infirmary onboard or in the sundries shop. 
• Eat. Why not? You are on a cruise! Light and bland food is best for seasickness. Grab some crackers or bread, along with the green apples and ginger ale mentioned above, and you have an instant buffet. 

If you already know that you are prone to seasickness, there are several medicines that your doctor can prescribe for you ahead of time. Or if you do experience unpleasant side-effects while on your cruise, don't hesitate to visit the doctor on board as well. Keep in mind, on some cruise lines, they might charge you a few dollars or GBPs for seasickness medication, but trust me, you'll be glad you got them. Or if the medical facility is closed, the sundries shops often have basic seasickness medications to purchase. 

Admittedly, seasickness can be debilitating. But keep in mind, the captain of the ship is doing their best to get you back into calmer waters. Once the waves are less rocky, it's usually only a matter of an hour or two before you will be back to enjoying your cruise! 

Do you have any secret remedies or tricks that you use for seasickness? Let's hear!