Best Sea Sickness Remedies

A common concern for those embarking upon their first cruise is seasickness. While some guests will experience 'mal de mer', the majority of guests don't feel the effects at all, or are able to combat nausea with a few simple and readily available remedies. Whether you're prone to seasickness or just want to be prepared, read on to find out more about the best seasickness tablets and remedies.

What is seasickness?

Symptoms of seasickness can include:

• Dizziness
• Lethargy and sleepiness
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating

Best seasickness tablets

Dramamine

Available over the counter and in a variety of forms such as chewable, non-drowsy and for kids, Dramamine is a popular option for preventing and treating seasickness. You'll also find versions which offer relief for up to 24 hours, making them one of the best seasickness tablets you'll find in your local pharmacy.

Benadryl

Often available freely or for sale in shops onboard cruise ships, Benadryl can be obtained without a prescription. Versions suitable for children are also available.

Both Dramamine and Benadryl are affordable options that are easy to purchase before your cruise. However, be aware that these medicines may cause drowsiness. For further advice on which is the best option for you, speak to your GP or pharmacist.

Other seasickness remedies

Patch

As a preventative remedy, seasickness patches are a fantastic option, with some providing relief for up to 3 days. Transderm Scop is available only by prescription and must be applied behind the ear 8 hours before boarding your cruise, but is a great option for longer term relief. For an over-the-counter option, other motion sickness patches are available, such as the herbal MQ Motion Sickness Patch. Seasickness patches are suitable for adults and children over the age of 10 and, similarly to seasickness tablets, may cause drowsiness.

Ginger

To treat mild symptoms, or to supplement medicines, ginger has been proven to ease the effects of motion sickness. Particularly ideal for those looking for a more natural remedy, ginger comes in many forms making it easy to pack for your cruise. Available as ginger sweets and ginger tea, as well as powders and tablets, the ginger root relieves the effects of seasickness.

Wristband

Easy to purchase and an affordable option, seasickness wristbands can be worn on each wrist to alleviate nausea through the use of acupressure. By maintaining a light pressure just below the wrist, the P6 nerve is stimulated to interrupt sensations of nausea sent from the brain. Sea-bands often come in a pack of two, are washable, are easy to pack in your bag for whenever you need them and have no side-effects as opposed to tablets and patches.

Tops tips for avoiding cruise sickness

1. Choose larger ships

With so many top cruise lines producing bigger and better ships each year, it's easy to opt for larger cruise ships which use state-of-the-art technology and stabilisers. These stabilisers are submersed beneath the ship to prevent the side-to-side rocking that you may experience out at sea, ensuring guests enjoy a smooth, comfortable journey without a hint of motion sickness.

2. Book cabins in the middle of the ship

Seasickness is usually caused by the motion of a ship rocking from side to side. To avoid feeling the effects of this, opt for a cabin that's situated in the middle of the ship on a lower deck. Like the middle of a seesaw, cabins in this area will feel less of a tilt than the aft and forward, meaning those prone to cruise sickness will have a blissful night's sleep.

3. Choose itineraries with less sea days

With so many itineraries to choose from around the world, there's bound to be a cruise holiday to suit you. If you're prone to seasickness, opt for an itinerary with fewer days out to sea, and more time spent in port. While a Transatlantic crossing cruise is certainly an unforgettable experience, you may find the extended time at sea is too much for your seasickness. Instead, go for something like a Mediterranean island hopping cruise where you'll be in port almost every single day or in calmer waters.