With a few smart choices and preparation, you can significantly reduce your chances of feeling queasy and enjoy your time onboard. From selecting the right cabin to knowing which foods to eat (and avoid), here’s how to keep seasickness at bay and make the most of your cruise.
Choose the Right Cabin Location
Where you stay on the ship can make a big difference in how much motion you feel. If you’re sensitive to movement, consider these cabin tips:
- Midship is best – Cabins located midship (the central part of the ship) tend to experience the least motion compared to those at the front (fore) or back (aft).
- Lower decks feel more stable – The higher up you go, the more sway you may feel. If seasickness is a concern, opt for a cabin on a lower deck.
- Balcony cabins can help – Having access to fresh air and being able to look at the horizon can help steady your senses if you start feeling uneasy.
Cruise Into Unforgettable Experiences
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you book through them—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly believe in!
Prepare with Medication and Natural Remedies
Taking precautions before you start feeling seasick is key. Here are some options:
- Over-the-counter medication – Dramamine and Bonine are popular choices, but they work best if taken before the ship starts moving.
- Motion sickness patches – Over the counter motion sickness patches are available and are placed behind the ear and provide longer-lasting relief. Prescription options, like Scopolamine patches, are available from a doctor. My sister takes Dramamine pretty much anytime she is in motion (cars, trains, flights, boats) but she used patches on our recent cruise and she had no problems at all even though we had some rocky seas.
- Pressure point wristbands – Some travelers swear by acupressure wristbands, which apply pressure to a specific point on your wrist to help prevent nausea.
- Ginger remedies – Ginger is a natural anti-nausea aid. Bring along ginger candies, ginger tea, or ginger capsules. Many ships also stock ginger ale. I loved ginger candies when I had morning sickness during my pregnancies and why not add in some extra vitamins with these Ginger Raspberry sweets, which can also help with motion sickness.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
Certain foods and drinks can make motion sickness worse, while others may help keep your stomach settled. Also, sometimes vacationers will eat differently on the cruise than they do at home which can also cause some stomach upset.
Foods to Avoid:
- Greasy, heavy foods – Fried foods and rich, creamy dishes can sit heavily in your stomach, making nausea worse.
- Spicy foods – Spicy meals can sometimes irritate the stomach, increasing discomfort.
- Excessive caffeine and alcohol – Both can lead to dehydration, which can make seasickness symptoms feel worse.
Foods That May Help:
- Green apples – Many cruisers swear by eating a green apple daily to prevent seasickness. Most ships, including Virgin Voyages, have them readily available in buffets and grab-and-go areas.
- Crackers or dry toast – Simple, bland foods can help settle your stomach.
- Ginger-based foods and drinks – As mentioned earlier, ginger candies, tea, and even ginger ale can be soothing.
- Plenty of water – Staying hydrated can help your body adjust to the ship’s motion. Honestly, I start each day with filling my reusable water bottle with water and adding a Liquid IV so I start the day rehydrating.
Get Plenty of Rest and Fresh Air
- Stick to a regular sleep schedule – Lack of sleep can make your body more susceptible to motion sickness. Try to get a good night’s rest. I know it might be hard to get to bed at your regular time with all the fun you are having on the cruise, but then maybe sleep in or nap to make up the sleep you might be missing.
- Step outside – If you start feeling queasy, head to an open deck for fresh air and focus on the horizon to help your body regain balance. This is where a balcony room can be helpful.
- Avoid stuffy areas – Enclosed, warm spaces with strong smells can make nausea worse. Luckily cruise ships typically have a lot of open spaces.
Join my newsletter
Want to know when I post new tips and travel information to my site? Sign up for my email newsletter and get updates several times a month in your inbox with travel tips, trip reviews, and other great travel details.
Take Advantage of Onboard Seasickness Relief
If you start your cruise and the motion sickness creeps up on you, most cruise ships are well-prepared to help passengers with motion sickness:
- Medical center supplies – Some cruise lines, like Virgin Voyages, have self-service areas in their medical centers where you can get seasickness medication.
- Shops onboard – Most ships sell motion sickness remedies like Dramamine or wristbands if you forget to bring your own but you will be paying a premium if you purchase online.
- Crew assistance – If you’re feeling unwell, don’t hesitate to ask the crew for advice—they’re experienced in helping guests handle seasickness.
If you know you’re prone to motion sickness, take it easy on embarkation day. Avoid large meals, limit alcohol, and give yourself time to adjust to the ship’s movement. Once you find your sea legs, you’ll likely feel much better!
Seasickness is a common concern, but it doesn’t have to ruin your cruise. With a little preparation—choosing the right cabin, bringing remedies, watching your diet, and getting fresh air—you can minimize your chances of feeling unwell and focus on enjoying your vacation.
Have you found any tricks that work well for avoiding seasickness on a cruise? Share your tips in the comments!
