The day has arrived! You reach the port and prepare for boarding. As you step onto the gangway you can feel the excitement building. Walking onto the ship you feel elated that you are here and the vacation can begin! You are thinking “Lunch is a wonderful way to wait for your room”. Off to your room to get settled and…wait…what is that queasy feeling? Why is the room moving? Am I going to fall over? And there it is… the dreaded sea sickness begins. But it doesn’t have to ruin your trip! Here are a few ways to combat sea sickness and have an absolutely wonderful cruise experience.
1. Let me start with the one you will like the least. Don’t drink too much. Over-indulgence is your enemy, moderation is your friend. Alcohol drains your body of B-Vitamins. Which is also why you get a headache. Bring B Complex with you, it is also good for a hangover. But don’t take too much, follow directions.
2. Plan ahead: bring your medication and take it the on your way to the ship. There are a variety of medicines you can get that are over the counter. The classics include, Dramamine, Bonamine and a variety of other oral medications. Patches and pressure point wrist bands are also an option and work well. Some are prescriptions so you should check with your physician. What you use is a matter of choice. Always check with your physician to make sure it is ok with your other medications if you take anything.
3. Try not to travel when seas may be rough if at all possible. Summer in the Caribbean for example but only if there is a hurricane. Obviously difficult to plan when a hurricane may be present. Certain areas such as the English Channel and North Sea are rougher than other areas.
4. Location, location, location. While ships have come a long way from “the old days” of cruising with optimal ballast to keep the ship from too much rocking, you are best in a mid-ship cabin. Think of a zodiac racing through the water, what does the front of the zodiac look like? Yep, so when you see the ad that says, great price, buy now, ask where the room is. The best order is, Mid, Back, Front. Also consider lower decks as opposed to upper decks.
5. Get a balcony room, on one of the lowest balcony levels. Then walk outside focus on the horizon and take a great breath of fresh air. In an inside room you can feel the movement more
6. I know you are on vacation but get some sleep.
7. Stay hydrated…with water. Have water delivered to your room before you arrive. That way you always have water when in your room and take it with you too.
8. Although water is my choice, if you are feeling nauseous, try some ginger ale or a clear carbonated beverage to settle your stomach. Ginger is great for settling your stomach, hence, ginger ale is my go-to.
9. Lose the electronics. If you are trying to read your phone or iPad for any length of time, the movement of your eyes against the movement of the ship make it worse.
10. Depending on where you are sailing, try not to get overheated. Cool off when needed, jump in the pool or the water if you are on shore.
I hope you find these tips helpful for your next seasick free cruise! Let me know if you have any ideas.
Bon Voyage!
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