Cruise without Seasickness: Genius Tricks You Need to Know

Have you ever felt sick on a cruise? If so, you are not alone. Seasickness is a common problem that affects many people on a cruise. It is caused by the motion of the vessel, which can make your brain and inner ear feel out of sync. Seasickness can easily ruin your cruise experience, but it can be easily prevented. Below are strategies on how to avoid seasickness on a cruise ship. Also, I’m sharing my Cruise Port and Sea Days Planner (get it as a free printable below).

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How to Avoid Seasickness on a Cruise Ship

1. Choose a cabin in the middle of the ship and on a lower deck

If you are prone to seasickness, definitely choose a cabin that is in the middle of the ship and on a lower deck. This is where the motion of the ship is less noticeable and more stable.

2. Always Keep a Full Stomach

A simple and effective way to avoid seasickness on a cruise ship is to keep your stomach full. Snack frequently throughout the day, regardless of the water conditions.

This is based on my own experience and the advice of many cruise staff. Being full is the best defense against seasickness! You don’t want to end up in a situation where you are too nauseous to eat.

Prevent this by having large meals and snacks. I recommend foods that are rich in carbs, as they will help you feel less sick. Avoid greasy and oily food!

It should be easy to eat all day long, since you are on a cruise with unlimited food! It’s a great opportunity to enjoy your vacation! Forget the salad and go for the pasta and bread basket!

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3. Sail on big cruise ships with stabilizers

If you are prone to seasickness, you need to avoid smaller, older ships that don’t have effective stabilizers. Stabilizers are devices that minimize the ship’s rolling motion and increase its stability.

You should go on big ships that are stable and not prone to a lot of rocking. Being on a big ship will make you more comfortable and will greatly lower the chances of seasickness.

Check out: When to Book a Cruise to Get the Best Deal

4. Choose an itinerary where the ship will not be subjected to choppy waters

Choppy waters can increase the motion of the ship and make you more prone to seasickness. For example, if you are planning to go on a Caribbean cruise, then you are better off leaving from one of the Florida cruise ports so you do not have to sail the Atlantic Ocean. Sailing from New York down the Atlantic Ocean to the Caribbean is more likely to encounter choppy water and trigger seasickness.

Also avoid sailing when it’s hurricane season since the water will be more choppy. You should also steer clear of Antarctica cruises. The Drake Passage is known for its harsh and choppy waters.

5. Stay Well-Hydrated

An easy way to avoid seasickness is to drink a lot of fluids. Staying hydrated can help you flush out toxins and prevent dehydration. Drink plenty of water, juice, or herbal tea, and avoid caffeinated or carbonated drinks.

6. Take Anti-Seasickness Medication

Anti-seasickness medication can help you prevent seasickness. If you expect choppy waters, take it as soon as possible. Cruise ships used to offer free anti-seasick medication, but now they charge you or limit the supply. I recommend bringing your own from home to avoid having to buy it at the Cruise gift shop. If you have kids, bring Dramamine for Kids (it’s chewable!).

7. Avoid looking at the waves or the horizon

Don’t look out at the waves! This can trigger or worsen your seasickness by making you more aware of the movement of the ship. Instead, focus on a fixed point inside the ship, such as a wall or a painting.

When the water is rough, I stay away from the buffet on the higher deck. The big windows there show the choppy water. I recommend staying on the lobby level where the windows are smaller or fewer.

8. Avoid alcohol

Avoid alcohol if you anticipate choppy waters. Alcohol can dehydrate you and impair your balance, which can worsen your seasickness.

Check out: 30 Unusual Things to Pack for a Cruise: Things You Didn’t Know You Need

9. Get some fresh air

When you are feeling seasick, try to get fresh air. Fresh air can help you breathe better and reduce your nausea.

10. Take Deep Breaths

Taking deep breaths can help you ease your motion sickness. Relax and breathe deeply. This can make you feel less seasick.

Check out: 11 Anti-Theft Cruise Tips that Every Cruiser Needs to Know

11. Avoid doing strenuous things such as going to the gym

Going to the gym can worsen your seasickness. Treadmills and ellipticals can make you feel the ship’s motion more. If you are into fitness, resist the urge to work out during the cruise. Instead, do some stretching and relaxing. You are on vacation, after all!

Looking for last minute deals? I recommend searching for last minute cruise deals from Cruise Direct

Get Your Free Cruise Port and Sea Days Planner

Sign up once and you will get access to ALL exclusive content on this website. After unlocking the printable, just save the printable image and then print it. Use it to plan your shore excursions on port day and activities on sea days. I hope you like it!