Seasickness occurs when motion information perceived by the eyes does not match the signals the body receives from the vestibular system. Common symptoms include:
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Dizziness.
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Nausea.
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Vomiting.
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Sweating.
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Fatigue.
The CDC recommends several non-pharmacological measures, such as looking at the horizon, lying down or closing your eyes when possible, staying well hydrated, and eating small amounts instead of having an overly empty or overly full stomach.
Before the trip
If you know you are prone to motion sickness:
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Get enough sleep.
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Avoid drinking excessive alcohol.
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Avoid meals that are too greasy.
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Have a light snack before the trip.
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Bring water.
Do not stay up all night looking at your phone and expect motion sickness medicine to solve everything.
Onboard the boat
Some people feel better when they:
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Look at the horizon.
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Close their eyes.
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Rest their head.
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Limit reading.
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Limit screen time.
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Move to a well-ventilated area if permitted by the crew.
Do not stand up and walk around on your own when the vessel is moving fast or when the sea is rough.
Motion sickness medication
The CDC notes that many motion sickness medications can cause drowsiness and not all medications are suitable for everyone; children require separate consultation regarding appropriate types and dosages. Therefore:
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Consult a doctor/pharmacist prior to the trip if necessary.
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Read the instructions carefully.
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Do not increase the dose on your own.
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Do not combine multiple medications out of fear that “the medicine is not strong enough”.
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Be cautious with alcohol and other drugs that cause drowsiness.
If you are pregnant, have underlying health conditions, or are taking regular medications, seeking professional advice beforehand is even more critical.
After vomiting
Notify the boat staff. If you are still conscious and able to swallow normally:
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Take small sips of water.
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Rest.
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Avoid trying to eat a lot right away.
When should it no longer be treated as mere “seasickness”?
Seek medical assistance if you experience:
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Continuous vomiting to the point of being unable to keep fluids down.
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Lethargy or confusion.
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Fainting.
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Difficulty breathing.
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Chest pain.
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An unusually severe headache.
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Weakness or paralysis.
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Symptoms inconsistent with ordinary seasickness.
Excessive vomiting can cause dehydration, and symptoms assumed to be “seasickness” can sometimes stem from other medical issues. In critical emergencies → 112.
Children
The CDC notes that motion sickness is common in children aged 2–12 years and emphasizes never giving adult medications to children without proper guidance. Do not administer a medication to a child for the first time right at the port without knowing how they might react.
Quick checklist
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Get enough sleep.
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Eat lightly.
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Drink plenty of water.
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Look at the horizon.
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Put down your phone.
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Medication → consult a doctor/pharmacist if needed.
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Do not increase dosages on your own.
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Administer medication to children strictly under professional advice.
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Unable to keep fluids down/lethargic → seek medical care.
