How Do I Prevent Seasickness on the Boat?

Is there anyone here who enjoys going on vacations? Vacations offer one of the most thrilling escapes. On average, everyone requires a break in life, especially with the burden of heavy workloads and other pressures.

However, there are certain people who love vacations but struggle with seasickness. Just imagine planning a trip to be enjoyed, only to feel uncomfortable due to seasickness. Sucks right? But don’t worry, this article will provide insights on preventing and effectively treating seasickness!

What is Seasickness?

Seasickness, also known as motion sickness or sea sickness, is a condition characterized by a feeling of nausea and discomfort that occurs when a person is exposed to motion, typically on a boat or ship.

It is caused by the brain receiving conflicting signals from the eyes, inner ear, and other sensory receptors. When these signals don’t align, such as when the eyes see motion but the inner ear senses stability, it can lead to symptoms like nausea, dizziness, sweating, and vomiting.

What Causes Seasickness?

Ever wondered why seasickness decides to crash the vacation when you’re out on the water? The answer is that our brain gets mixed signals. Since our eyes spot the boat rocking, but our inner ear doesn’t sense much movement.

This mix-up in signals can make you feel queasy, dizzy, or even break out in a cold sweat. The unpredictability of the boat’s movements, coupled with the sensitivity of your inner ear and the influence of stress, can all contribute to the seasickness experience. Essentially, it’s a case of sensory miscommunication.

Symptoms of Seasickness

There are usually several symptoms of seasickness.The most prevalent and enduring symptom is nausea, persisting throughout the journey and even up to the destination. Here are some key seasickness symptoms you should be aware of:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Pale Skin
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Loss of Appetite
• Increased Salivation
• Cold Sweats

How Do I Prevent Seasickness on the Boat?

Even if you’re prone to seasickness, it doesn’t mean you can’t prevent it. You can still enjoy a sea trip. Check out these friendly tips on how to avoid and lessen seasickness :

1. Keep Hydrate

First thing you have to do to prevent seasickness is to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water before and during your sailing adventure. Remember to also skip the acidic drinks!

Some people also mentioned that they feel good with sparkling water, club soda, ginger ale, chamomile, or peppermint tea. Try it out and see whether it works!

2. Eat Lightly

Have little meals regularly and stay away from heavy or greasy foods, even the night before your sailing adventure. If you start feeling a bit queasy, munch on some saltine crackers. A touch of candied peppermint or ginger might do the trick too!

3. Avoid Strong or Unpleasant Odors

Watch out for engine fumes, strong perfumes, and cooking smells since they can make seasickness worse. Pick a spot in the cockpit where you can catch lots of fresh air for a more pleasant ride!

4. Choose the Journey for Vacation

If you are prone to get seasick, it’s a good idea to go for larger ships and pick routes with smoother waters for a more comfortable journey. For example, you can choose a speed boat from Gili Voyages that has been trusted for their smooth rides from Bali to several islands such as Nusa Penida, Gili Trawangan, etc.

5. Get Some Fresh Air

When seasickness hits, head to a balcony or open deck and fix your gaze on the horizon. It sounds unbelievable but it actually works!

The fresh air, especially if there’s a breeze, can be super helpful. Keep yourself occupied with something other than the boat’s movement, so stay engaged and active while you’re on board.

6. Get Enough Rest

Sleep is a simple but underrated thing for many people. If you are going on vacation, make sure to get enough rest because lack of sleep can make your body unfit and prone to seasickness.

7. Avoid Alcohol

Avoid consuming alcohol during your travels. However, if you still wish to indulge, do so in moderation and keep it light.

8. Get Medicine

Numerous medications are available to effectively tackle seasickness, ranging from pills to patches. Please note that some seasickness medications have the side effect of drowsiness. So remember to ask about the side effects before buying the medicine!

You Don’t Have to Be Afraid of Seasickness!

Although seasickness may not be a significant issue, it can still be quite bothersome. Imagine you’re on a vacation in Bali, planning to take the Bali ferry to smaller islands. Of course the last thing you want is to feel nauseous, dizzy, and pale, which can ruin the mood for the entire trip. Fortunately, with various tips above, you can easily prevent seasickness.

And if you plan to visit Bali soon,you can conveniently purchase boat tickets from Gili Voyages online in advance to have a more organized trip. On top of that, Gili Voyages also offer a complete service at an affordable price. Go book your ferry ticket right away and you can fully enjoy the trip without any worries!

FAQ

I’m planning a boat trip, and I’m worried about getting seasick. Any tips to prevent it?

Seasickness can be a concern, but there are ways to minimize its impact. First, choose a seat near the center of the boat, as it experiences less motion. Keeping your eyes on the horizon and getting some fresh air on the deck can also help.

Are there specific foods or drinks that can help prevent seasickness?

Ginger is your seasickness superhero. Consider ginger candies, ginger tea, or even ginger capsules. Avoid heavy, greasy meals before the journey, and stay hydrated with water or clear beverages.

Should I take medication to prevent seasickness, and if so, what kind?

Over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or wristbands with pressure points can be effective. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Can I do anything in terms of preparation before the boat trip to prevent seasickness?

Yes, make sure to get a good night’s sleep before your journey, and avoid consuming heavy meals or excessive alcohol the night before. Packing some snacks and staying well-hydrated can also contribute to a smoother sailing experience.

What if I start feeling queasy during the trip? Any in-the-moment remedies?

If the seasickness creeps in, focus on a fixed point on the horizon, and consider sipping on clear, non-alcoholic beverages. Stepping out to get some fresh air on the deck can provide relief. In extreme cases, lying down and closing your eyes may help.

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