What do Admiral Horatio Nelson, Charles Darwin (and some astronauts) have in common? Well, like so many others they suffered with seasickness or motion sickness. Fortunately today’s cruise ships are designed quite differently to vessels of yester-year. Stabilisers are often built in to give a smoother ride in rough weather.
We have taken 60 cruises on many ships and fortunately have rarely experienced little more than discomfort. However even for the most experienced sailors seasickness can be a debilitating experience. Understanding more about it and how it can be reduced or prevented may be of interest.
What is Seasickness?
It is known more generally as motion sickness as it can affect you on land, sea, in the air or in space. It happens when there is a conflict in the inner ear, where the human balance mechanism resides, and is caused by a vessel’s erratic motion – in this instance on the sea.
What are the Symptoms?
Symptoms commonly include nausea, vomiting, cold sweat, headache, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite and increased salivation. Symptoms often subside within a few hours after the motion stops.
Who is prone to Seasickness?
According to research children between the ages of 2 and 12, women and those who suffer with inner ear disorders such as vertigo are more likely to feel seasickness and motion sickness in general.
What can you do?
Don’t get put off travelling, particularly in this instance on a cruise. There are things you can do to help reduce the likelihood of you suffering – although everyone’s different and some remedies may not suit.
Before Booking
You can start to look at how to reduce seasickness even before you book a cruise. It’s important to remember that the action of a cruise ship, like other vessels, is much like a fulcrum. Think of a seesaw. The part of it that will have least movement will be in the centre. So, if you look at a ship, the most stable places to have a cabin will be on the lower decks and midships.
Be Prepared
It may sound obvious, but take time to think about potential remedies before you sail. Have a word with your local pharmacist who can advise on medications to take with you – these can include tablets and patches. We always take a supply with us as part of our informal personal `first aid’ pack. If you do use these, it is important to follow the instructions to ensure the best outcome.
You may prefer to consider more natural remedies including:
Ginger – used for centuries to combat nausea and motion sickness. Can be consumed as tea, cold drinks sweets or supplements
Peppermint – in the form of tea or peppermint oil can also help
Vitamin B6 – is another item that can help
Acupressure Wristbands – can be effective if positioned correctly
Aromatherapy – scents like lavender, lemon and eucalyptus
Once onboard a Ship
Once you are on board there are still things that you can do to reduce the likelihood of experiencing seasickness – without medication.
It is important to stay hydrated and avoid heavy, spicy or greasy foods as well as acidic and caffeinated beverages.
Eat small, frequent meals and choose light bland foods (crackers, plain bread and bananas).
Give your body time to acclimatise to the motion. If you feel nauseous focus on a distant object on the horizon as this can reduce the sensory conflict that causes motion sickness.
Avoid reading and using electronic devices.
Get involved in activities or scheduled events so that you are distracted.
Light exercise can help – walking, deck sports or light fitness classes.
Spend time in the open air if you can as sea breezes can ease discomfort.
Extreme Conditions
Despite everything, there can be times when discomfort is such that medical assistance is required. On these rare occasions you may find it applicable to consult with the medical team on board – this is chargeable but should be covered on your travel insurance. They can advise at the time and administer stronger remedies if it is medically advised.
Above all – don’t let seasickness put you off
Seasickness can pose a challenge to an otherwise delightful cruising experience. With proper preparation and awareness you can effectively manage the condition.
Remember every individual responds differently to remedies and some will work better for you than others.
Happy Cruising!