FIRST-TIME CRUISER ADVICE
How to Avoid Seasickness: Tips for New Cruisers
A Little Preparation Can Make Your First Days at Sea Much More Comfortable.
Seasickness is one of the most common worries new cruisers bring to the ship, but many travelers discover that modern cruise ships feel much steadier than they expected.
If you know you are sensitive to motion, a few smart choices before and during the cruise can help you feel more comfortable and enjoy the voyage with greater confidence.
What Can Help Reduce Seasickness on a Cruise?
Choose a cabin in a part of the ship where motion is generally less noticeable, look toward the horizon, avoid reading when you feel queasy, stay rested and hydrated and speak with a healthcare professional or pharmacist before sailing if you are considering motion-sickness medicine.
MEET THE PERSON BEHIND THE ADVICE
Meet Captain Chuck
Chuck Lund is the founder of America’s Best Cruises and a retired Captain with over 35 years of experience taking care of his guests. He brings the same attention to planning, communication and detail to helping first-time cruisers feel prepared before they ever step aboard.
His goal is simple: help you choose wisely, know what to expect and enjoy the anticipation of your cruise instead of worrying about every “what if.”
“I treat every guest like family because that's what these trips are all about.”
WATCH
First-Time Cruisers: Start With Confidence
A first cruise is much easier when you know what to expect before boarding. This video covers helpful first-time cruiser guidance so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the experience.
Preparation does not remove the adventure. It gives you more freedom to enjoy it.
UNDERSTAND WHAT IS HAPPENING
Why Does Seasickness Happen?
Motion sickness can occur when what your eyes see does not match the movement your inner ear senses. That mismatch can leave some travelers feeling uncomfortable, dizzy or nauseated.
Motion Varies
Sea conditions, ship size and where you are onboard can all affect how much movement you notice.
People Vary Too
Some travelers are naturally more sensitive to motion than others.
Your Body May Adjust
Many travelers become more comfortable as they spend time aboard and adapt to the ship's movement.
CABIN LOCATION
Choose a Location Where Motion May Feel Less Noticeable
If motion sensitivity is a major concern, cabin location is worth considering before you book.
Cabins closer to the middle of the ship and on lower passenger decks are often chosen by travelers who want to minimize the sensation of movement.
When Comparing Cabins
- Consider a more central location
- Consider a lower passenger deck
- Avoid choosing only by view or price
- Ask about the ship's layout
- Balance motion concerns with convenience
LOOK OUT, NOT DOWN
Use the Horizon to Help Your Senses Agree
Looking at a distant, stable point such as the horizon can help some travelers feel better when the ship is moving.
Look Toward the Horizon
A stable visual reference can be easier on your senses than focusing on something close to you.
Get Fresh Air
Stepping into an open-air area may feel more comfortable than staying in a confined interior space.
Reading When You Feel Queasy
Books and close-up screen use can make motion symptoms worse for some people.
Keep Your Head Steady
Reducing unnecessary head movement can help some motion-sensitive travelers.
THE BASICS MATTER
Rest, Hydration and Simple Meals Can Help
Get Enough Sleep
Being overtired can make motion discomfort harder to deal with.
Drink Water
Regular hydration is a simple part of staying comfortable while traveling.
Keep Meals Reasonable
Large, heavy or greasy meals may feel less comfortable when the sea is moving.
Give Yourself Time
Do not schedule every minute of your first day if you already know you are sensitive to motion.
MEDICATIONS & REMEDIES
Talk With a Healthcare Professional Before You Sail
Plan Ahead if Motion Sickness Has Been a Problem Before
Several prescription and nonprescription medicines are used for motion sickness, but they can have side effects and may not be appropriate for every traveler.
If you think you may need medication, ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist what is appropriate for you and when it should be taken. This is especially important for children, older adults and anyone who takes other medicines or has ongoing health conditions.
Ask about appropriate motion-sickness options before departure rather than waiting until you feel unwell.
Some travelers like ginger products, although evidence for supplements and similar remedies is mixed.
Some people find acupressure-style bands comforting, but results vary and they should not replace medical guidance when you need it.
YOUR FIRST DAY ONBOARD
Give Your Body an Easy Introduction to the Ship
Embarkation day already brings plenty of new sights, sounds and activity. If you are worried about motion, there is no need to make the first few hours a race.
A Comfortable First-Day Plan
- Explore at an easy pace
- Spend some time outside
- Eat a reasonable meal
- Drink water
- Find a comfortable open deck
- Rest if you need it
IF YOU START FEELING UNWELL
Do Not Try to Tough It Out
If motion discomfort starts, simplify what you are doing. Sit or lie down if that feels better, look toward a stable horizon when possible and give yourself time to recover.
If symptoms are severe, unusual, persistent or you are worried about dehydration or another health problem, seek help from the ship's medical staff.
Simple Comfort Steps
- Stop reading or using screens
- Look toward the horizon
- Reduce unnecessary movement
- Get fresh air if comfortable
- Sip fluids
- Rest
DO NOT LET THE FEAR DECIDE FOR YOU
Many First-Time Cruisers Worry More Than They Need To
Concern about seasickness can become bigger than the actual experience. Modern cruise ships are designed for passenger comfort and many travelers who expect to struggle discover that they adjust very well.
If you know motion sickness has affected you before, prepare for it. Then give yourself permission to look forward to the cruise instead of assuming the worst.
THE REAL GOAL
Prepare, Then Enjoy the Voyage
Seasickness is worth thinking about, but it does not need to dominate the planning for your first cruise.
Choose your cabin thoughtfully, learn a few simple comfort strategies and talk with a qualified healthcare professional if you think medication may be useful.
A little preparation can turn “What if I get seasick?” into “Why did I worry so much?”
HAVE SOMEONE IN THE GROUP WORRIED ABOUT MOTION AT SEA?
Tell Captain Chuck About Your Travelers
Tell us roughly who may travel, whether anyone is a first-time cruiser and what concerns are making people hesitate. You do not need to choose a ship or itinerary before asking for help. We’ll help narrow the cruise options around the people traveling and point guests toward the current cruise-line and medical guidance they should review for their own circumstances before sailing.
