seasick on land after cruise

After Cruise Motion Sickness: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Do you ever feel like you’re still on a cruise ship even after you’ve returned home? Do you experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and a rocking sensation that just won’t go away?

If so, you may be suffering from a condition known as mal de debarquement syndrome (MdDS).

MdDS is a rare motion disorder that affects some people after they disembark from a boat or ship. Symptoms can persist for days, weeks, or even months after the cruise has ended, making it difficult for sufferers to resume their daily activities.

While the exact cause of MdDS is not fully understood, it is believed to be related to a mismatch between the brain’s perception of motion and the body’s actual movement.

Fortunately, there are ways to manage the symptoms of MdDS and get your land legs back. From medication to natural remedies, there are various options available to help alleviate the discomfort associated with this condition.

In this article, we will explore the causes and MdDS symptoms, as well as the most effective treatments for after-cruise motion sickness.

Understanding Motion Sickness

The inner ear, also known as the vestibular system, is responsible for maintaining your body’s sense of balance and orientation. When you are in motion, the vestibular system sends signals to your brain to help it understand your body’s position and movement.

However, if your eyes see something different from what your inner ear is sensing, it can cause a conflict in your brain, leading to motion sickness.

After cruise motion sickness (aka land sickness) can affect anyone, but some people are more susceptible to it than others. Women, children under 12, and people with a history of migraines or inner ear problems are more likely to experience this balance disorder.

Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, and fatigue. These symptoms can be mild or severe and can last for minutes or hours, depending on the severity of the motion sickness.

To prevent land sickness, it is important to avoid activities that can trigger it, such as reading while in motion or sitting in the backseat of a car. It is also helpful to keep your eyes fixed on a stable object, such as the horizon, and to avoid looking at moving objects.

If you do experience such symptoms, there are several remedies that can help alleviate the nausea. These include taking over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines or ginger supplements, and practicing deep breathing and relaxation techniques.

Specifics of After Cruise Motion Sickness

After a cruise, it’s common to feel like you’re still on the ship for a short period of time. This feeling is known as “sea legs” and is caused by your brain still adjusting to being back on land.

However, for some people, the symptoms of motion sickness can persist for days or even weeks after the cruise has ended. This is known as after cruise motion sickness or mal de debarquement syndrome (MDDS) .

MDDS is a rare condition that affects a small percentage of people who have been on a cruise. The symptoms of MDDS can include a persistent feeling of rocking or swaying, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms can be mild or severe and can last for days, weeks, or even months.

The exact cause of MDDS is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a mismatch between the signals that your brain receives from your inner ear and your eyes. This mismatch can cause your brain to continue to perceive motion even when you are stationary, leading to the symptoms of MDDS.

If you are experiencing symptoms of MDDS after a cruise, it’s important to seek medical attention. Your doctor may be able to recommend treatments such as medication or physical therapy to help alleviate your symptoms.

It’s also important to take steps to prevent MDDS before and during your cruise. This can include taking medication to prevent motion sickness, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine. Additionally, during the cruise, you can try to stay in the middle of the ship, where there is less motion, and avoid looking at the ocean or other moving objects.

Symptoms of Land Sickness

If you have ever experienced motion or land sickness, you know how uncomfortable it can be. The symptoms can vary from person to person, but some common symptoms include:

These symptoms can last for hours or even days, depending on the severity of your motion sickness. In some cases, you may experience migraines or headaches as well.

One of the most common symptoms is imbalance. You may feel like you are swaying or rocking, even when you are standing still. This can make it difficult to maintain your balance and can lead to falls.

In addition to imbalance, you may also experience tiredness and fatigue. This can make it difficult to focus and can affect your overall mood. Some people even experience depression as a result of their motion sickness.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to take steps to manage your motion sickness. This may include taking medication, avoiding certain foods or activities, or using relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety.

How to Prevent Land Sickness After Your Cruise

While there is no foolproof method to prevent land sickness, you can take certain steps to help minimize its effects:

• Gradual Adjustment: Give your body time to readjust to the stable ground. Avoid making sudden movements and take it easy during the first few days after disembarking from the cruise ship.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as dehydration can worsen the symptoms of land sickness.
• Get Adequate Rest: Allow your body to recover from the physical and sensory changes experienced during the cruise. Get enough sleep to aid in the readjustment process.
• Avoid Stimulants: Limit the intake of caffeine, alcohol, and other stimulants that can disrupt your body’s natural equilibrium.
• Focus on the Horizon: When walking or standing, try to focus on the horizon or a stable object in the distance. This can help your brain reorient itself and reduce the sensation of movement.
• Avoid Prolonged Screen Time: Minimize excessive screen time, such as watching TV or using a computer, as this can exacerbate symptoms.
• Motion Exercises: Gentle motion exercises, like rocking or swaying slowly while sitting or standing, might help your body adapt to the changes.
• Balance Training: Engage in simple balance exercises, like standing on one leg or walking in a straight line, to improve your body’s balance mechanisms.
• Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing deep breathing and relaxation exercises can help reduce stress and alleviate symptoms.
• Consult a Healthcare Professional: If the symptoms persist or become severe, consult a healthcare professional experienced in treating motion-related issues or vestibular disorders.

It’s important to remember that land sickness usually resolves on its own within a few days to a few weeks. However, if the symptoms persist for an extended period or interfere with your daily life, it’s best to seek medical advice.

As with any medical condition, individual responses may vary, and the effectiveness of preventive measures can differ from person to person.

If you are concerned about land sickness or have any underlying health conditions, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance

Preventing Motion Sickness on Your Cruise

If you’re planning a cruise, you may be worried about getting motion sickness. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent it.

Choose Your Cabin Wisely

When booking your cabin, try to choose one in the middle of the ship. This is the most stable area of the ship and will experience the least amount of movement. Additionally, cabins that are located on lower decks tend to experience less motion than those on higher decks.

Take Advantage of Stabilizers and Hull Design

Modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers that help reduce the amount of rolling and pitching. Additionally, the hull design of newer ships is optimized to reduce motion. When booking your cruise, try to choose a newer ship that has these features.

Look at the Horizon

When you’re on the ship, try to focus on the horizon. This can help reduce the feeling of motion sickness. Avoid looking at anything that is moving, such as the waves or other passengers.

Avoid Reading

Reading while on a moving ship can make motion sickness worse. If you’re prone to motion sickness, try to avoid reading while on the ship.

Get Fresh Air

If you’re feeling queasy, try to get some fresh air. Go outside on the deck and take deep breaths. This can help you feel better.

Avoid Windy Areas

Windy areas of the ship can exacerbate motion sickness. Try to avoid areas where there is a lot of wind.

Medications

If you’re prone to motion sickness, talk to your doctor about medications that can help prevent it. There are several over-the-counter and prescription medications that can be effective. However, be aware that some medications can cause drowsiness.

Motion Sickness Medications

Meclizine is an over-the-counter medication that come as motion sickness pills. It is an antihistamine that works by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical in the body that can cause nausea and vomiting. Meclizine is available in tablet form and should be taken at least one hour before traveling.

Scopolamine is a prescription medication that is available in patch form. It is a type of anticholinergic medication that works by blocking the effects of acetylcholine, a chemical in the body that can cause nausea and vomiting. The patch should be applied behind the ear at least four hours before traveling and can be effective for up to three days.

Dramamine is an over-the-counter medication that can be used to treat motion sickness. It contains the active ingredient dimenhydrinate, which is an antihistamine that can help alleviate nausea and vomiting. Dramamine is available in tablet or liquid form and should be taken at least 30 minutes before traveling.

It is important to note that these medications can cause drowsiness as a side effect, so it is recommended that you avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking them.

Additionally, some medications may interact with other medications you are taking, so it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking any new medication.

Natural Remedies for Motion Sickness

If you’re looking for natural remedies to help ease your motion sickness after a cruise, there are several options to consider. These remedies can help alleviate symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and vomiting.

One of the most popular natural remedies for motion sickness is ginger. Ginger has been used for centuries to treat nausea and vomiting, and studies have shown that it can be effective in reducing symptoms of motion sickness as well. You can try drinking ginger tea or taking ginger supplements to help alleviate your symptoms.

2. Fresh Air

Another natural remedy is fresh air. When you’re feeling nauseous or dizzy, getting some fresh air can help provide relief. If possible, step outside onto the deck of the ship or open a window in your cabin to get some fresh air.

3. Acupressure Bands

You may also want to try using acupressure bands. These bands apply pressure to certain points on your wrist that are believed to help alleviate nausea and vomiting. They are safe, easy to use, and can be found at most drugstores.

4. Peppermint

Peppermint is another natural remedy that can be effective in reducing symptoms of motion sickness. Peppermint has a calming effect on the stomach and can help alleviate nausea. You can try drinking peppermint tea or using peppermint essential oil to help ease your symptoms.

5. Green Apples

Green apples are believed to help with motion sickness due to their natural acidity and fresh aroma. Green apples have a slightly higher level of acidity than other apple varieties. Some people claim that the acidity can help neutralize stomach acids, reducing feelings of nausea and discomfort associated with motion sickness. (I got ill on a cruise one time from large waves and I ate half a green apple with some sprite and within 20 min I was feeling much, MUCH better).

6. Alcohol Pads

Smelling alcohol pads for nausea is a home remedy that some people use to try and alleviate feelings of nausea. The idea behind this practice is that the strong scent of the alcohol might help to distract from or mask the sensation of nausea. Additionally, some believe that the alcohol’s volatile compounds could have a calming effect on the stomach.

If you’re looking for a medication that is considered natural, you may want to consider Bonine. Bonine is an over-the-counter medication that contains meclizine, an antihistamine that can help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness. It is considered safe and effective for most people.

8. Acupuncture

Finally, acupuncture is an alternative therapy that can be effective in reducing symptoms of motion sickness. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, and it is believed to help promote balance and alleviate nausea and vomiting.

Tips for Traveling with Motion Sickness

Motion sickness can be a real bummer when you’re traveling, especially after a cruise vacation. But don’t let it hold you back from exploring the world. Here are some tips to help you manage motion sickness while traveling:

Choose the Right Mode of Transportation

Some modes of transportation can trigger motion sickness more than others. If you know you’re prone to motion sickness, try to avoid cars, buses, and trains that have a lot of sudden stops and starts. Instead, opt for a cruise ship or plane, which tend to have smoother rides. If you’re traveling by car, try to sit in the front seat and focus on the road ahead.

Choose the Right Seat

When traveling by plane or cruise ship, try to choose a seat near a window or with access to fresh air. Being able to see the horizon can help with motion sickness, and fresh air can help alleviate symptoms. If you’re on a cruise ship, consider booking a stateroom with a balcony so you can step outside whenever you need to.

Pack the Right Supplies

There are several over-the-counter medications and natural remedies that can help with motion sickness. Ginger, for example, has been shown to be effective in reducing nausea and vomiting. You can take ginger supplements or bring ginger tea or candies with you on your trip. Other options include acupressure wristbands, which apply pressure to a specific point on your wrist to help alleviate symptoms, and over-the-counter medications like Dramamine.

Take Breaks

If you’re on a long trip, make sure to take breaks and get some fresh air whenever possible. Take a walk around the plane or cruise ship, or step outside for a few minutes if you’re traveling by car. Taking breaks can help reset your senses and alleviate motion sickness symptoms.

By following these tips, you can manage motion sickness and enjoy your travels without feeling sick. Remember, everyone’s experience with motion sickness is different, so it’s important to find what works best for you.

Specific Groups Affected by Motion Sickness

Motion sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. However, some groups may be more prone to motion sickness than others. Here are some specific groups that may be affected by motion sickness:

Studies have shown that women are more likely to experience motion sickness than men. This may be due to hormonal differences, as women’s levels of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate throughout their menstrual cycle. These hormones can affect the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation.

Middle-aged Women

Middle-aged women are particularly susceptible to motion sickness, especially during the perimenopausal and menopausal periods. This is because hormonal changes during this time can disrupt the vestibular system, making it more sensitive to motion.

Pregnant Women

Pregnant women may experience motion sickness due to hormonal changes, increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli, and changes in balance and coordination. Additionally, many anti-motion sickness medications are not safe for pregnant women to take, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any medication.

Children are also prone to motion sickness, especially those between the ages of 2 and 12. This is because their vestibular system is still developing, and they may not have fully developed their ability to suppress conflicting sensory information.

In general, anyone can experience motion sickness, but some groups may be more susceptible to it than others. If you fall into one of these groups, it’s important to take preventative measures to avoid motion sickness, such as sitting in the front of a car or boat, focusing on a fixed point in the distance, and avoiding reading or looking at screens while in motion.

Diagnosing Land Sickness

If you are experiencing symptoms of land sickness after a cruise, it is important to seek medical attention from a doctor or medical professional. Your doctor will begin by taking your medical history and performing a physical exam to check for any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.

In some cases, your doctor may refer you to a neurologist, who specializes in disorders of the nervous system. They may also order blood tests or a hearing exam to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms.

One way that doctors diagnose motion sickness is by evaluating your internal models. These are the mental representations that your brain uses to predict how your body will move and react to different stimuli. When your internal models are disrupted, such as when you are on a moving ship, it can lead to symptoms of motion sickness.

Your doctor may also use a variety of other diagnostic tools to help diagnose your condition. For example, they may use a computerized dynamic posturography (CDP) test to evaluate your balance and stability. This test involves standing on a platform that moves in different directions while sensors measure your body’s response.

Dealing with Severe Motion Sickness

One effective treatment is vestibular rehabilitation. This therapy involves exercises that help you retrain your brain to process the signals it receives from your inner ear, which can help reduce your symptoms.

Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist who specializes in vestibular rehabilitation to help you develop a personalized treatment plan.

Another condition that can cause persistent motion sickness is Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MDDS). If you have been diagnosed with MDDS, your doctor may recommend medication to help manage your symptoms. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can be effective in reducing the severity of your symptoms.

In addition to medication and therapy, there are other steps you can take to manage your motion sickness.

Here are a few tips that may help:

• Avoid reading or looking at screens while in motion
• Focus on a fixed point in the distance to help stabilize your vision
• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Get plenty of rest and avoid overexertion

By taking these steps and working with your doctor to develop a treatment plan, you can manage your severe motion sickness and improve your quality of life.

Lifestyle and Motion Sickness

Motion or land sickness can be a frustrating and debilitating condition that can impact your daily life, especially after a cruise. While there is no guaranteed cure, there are several lifestyle changes and remedies that can help alleviate symptoms.

Regular exercise can help reduce the severity of motion sickness symptoms. Exercise increases blood flow and can help improve balance and coordination. However, it is important to avoid exercising immediately before or after a cruise, as this can exacerbate symptoms.

Getting enough rest before and after a cruise can help reduce the likelihood and severity of motion sickness. Lack of sleep can make symptoms worse, so it is important to prioritize rest and relaxation.

Dehydration

Dehydration can worsen motion sickness symptoms, so it is important to stay hydrated before, during, and after a cruise. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and caffeine can help prevent dehydration and reduce symptoms.

Alcohol can worsen motion sickness symptoms, so it is important to avoid drinking alcohol before and during a cruise. If you do choose to drink, it is important to do so in moderation and to stay hydrated.

Hormonal changes can impact the severity of motion sickness symptoms, especially in women. If you experience motion sickness during your menstrual cycle, consider talking to your doctor about hormonal birth control options.

Overall, making small lifestyle changes and taking preventative measures can help reduce the severity and frequency of motion sickness symptoms after a cruise.

Devices for Motion Sickness Relief

When it comes to motion sickness relief, there are various devices you can use to prevent or alleviate symptoms. Here are some of the most popular options:

Wristbands are a common choice for motion sickness relief. They work by applying pressure to the Nei-Kuan acupressure point on your wrist, which is believed to help reduce nausea. There are two types of wristbands: elastic bands with a plastic stud and battery-powered bands that use electrical stimulation. Both types are designed to be worn on both wrists and can be adjusted for a comfortable fit.

Anti-Nausea Medication

If you’re prone to motion sickness, you may want to consider taking anti-nausea medication before your cruise. There are several over-the-counter and prescription medications available, including Dramamine, Bonine, and Scopolamine patches. These medications work by blocking the signals that cause nausea in your brain. It’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any medication to ensure it’s safe for you.

Sea-Bands are similar to wristbands but are worn on your ankles instead. They work by applying pressure to the Pericardium 6 (P6) acupressure point, which is believed to help relieve nausea and vomiting. Sea-Bands are a good option if you prefer not to wear something on your wrists or if you find wristbands uncomfortable.

The ReliefBand is a battery-powered wristband that uses electrical stimulation to prevent nausea and vomiting. It works by sending gentle pulses to the median nerve on your wrist, which helps to rebalance your body’s natural electrical signals. The ReliefBand is FDA-approved and has been clinically proven to be effective for motion sickness relief.

Ginger is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat nausea and vomiting. You can take ginger supplements, drink ginger tea, or eat ginger candy to help prevent motion sickness. Some people find that nibbling on plain crackers and sipping cold water or a carbonated drink without caffeine also helps.

Overall, there are several devices and remedies available to help prevent or alleviate motion sickness symptoms. It’s important to find the option that works best for you and to talk to your doctor before taking any medication.

Side Effects of Motion Sickness Medications

When you experience motion sickness, you may want to take medication to alleviate the symptoms. However, like any medication, motion sickness drugs can have side effects. Here are some of the most common side effects you may experience when taking medication for motion sickness:

• Drowsiness : One of the most common side effects of motion sickness medication is drowsiness. This can be particularly problematic if you are driving or operating heavy machinery. If you experience drowsiness after taking medication, avoid driving or operating machinery until the drowsiness wears off.
• Dry mouth : Some motion sickness medications can cause dry mouth. This can be uncomfortable, but it is usually not a serious side effect. Drinking plenty of water can help alleviate dry mouth.
• Blurred vision : Some motion sickness medications can cause blurred vision. If you experience this side effect, avoid activities that require good vision, such as driving or reading.
• Dizziness : Dizziness is another possible side effect of motion sickness medication. If you experience dizziness, avoid activities that require balance, such as walking on uneven ground or climbing stairs.
• Nausea : Ironically, some motion sickness medications can cause nausea as a side effect. If you experience nausea after taking medication, try taking it with food or a full glass of water.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some people may experience side effects that are not listed here. If you have concerns about the side effects of a particular medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

In some cases, the benefits of taking motion sickness medication may outweigh the potential side effects. However, it’s important to be aware of the possible side effects so you can make an informed decision about whether to take medication for your motion sickness symptoms.

The Role of the Inner Ear in Motion Sickness

Motion sickness is a common phenomenon that affects many people, especially after a cruise. The inner ear plays a crucial role in motion sickness. The inner ear is responsible for detecting movement and changes in the body’s position, which helps the brain maintain balance.

The inner ear consists of three semicircular canals filled with fluid and tiny hair-like sensors. These sensors detect the movement of fluid as the head moves. The information is then sent to the brain, which processes the signals and sends messages to the muscles to maintain balance.

When you are on a cruise, the movement of the ship can cause the fluid in the inner ear to move in a way that is different from the movement of the body. This can cause a conflict in the signals being sent to the brain, leading to motion sickness.

The inner ear is not the only factor that contributes to motion sickness. Other factors, such as visual cues and the body’s position, also play a role. For example, if you are reading a book or looking at your phone while on a moving ship, your eyes may send signals to the brain that conflict with the signals from the inner ear, leading to motion sickness.

In conclusion, the inner ear plays a crucial role in motion sickness. It detects movement and changes in the body’s position, which helps the brain maintain balance. When the signals from the inner ear conflict with other signals, such as visual cues, it can lead to motion sickness.

The Influence of the Ocean on Motion Sickness

If you experience motion sickness after a cruise, you may wonder why the ocean has such a strong effect on your body. The truth is that the ocean’s movement and the resulting motion sickness are closely related. Here are a few factors that influence motion sickness when you’re on a cruise:

• Wave frequency and amplitude : The ocean’s waves can have different frequencies and amplitudes, depending on the weather and other factors. When the waves are high and frequent, your body may have a harder time adapting to the motion, which can lead to motion sickness.
• Visual cues : When you’re on a cruise, your eyes may see the ship moving, but your body may not feel it. This mixed signal can confuse your brain and trigger motion sickness.
• Inner ear balance : Your inner ear is responsible for maintaining your body’s balance. When you’re on a cruise, the constant motion of the ship can affect your inner ear and make you feel dizzy or nauseous.
• Stress and anxiety : Feeling stressed or anxious can make motion sickness worse. If you’re worried about getting sick or have other concerns about your cruise, it can amplify the symptoms of motion sickness.

Overall, the ocean’s movement can have a significant impact on your body and trigger motion sickness. However, there are ways to prevent and manage motion sickness when you’re on a cruise.

The Role of Timothy C. Hain in Motion Sickness Research

Timothy C. Hain is a neurologist and researcher at Northwestern University who has made significant contributions to the study of motion sickness. His work has focused on understanding the underlying causes of motion sickness and developing effective treatments for this common condition.

Hain has conducted extensive research on various types of motion sickness, including seasickness, car sickness, and air sickness. He has also studied the role of the vestibular system in motion sickness and the use of medication and other interventions to prevent or alleviate symptoms.

One of Hain’s most significant contributions to the field of motion sickness research is his work on Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MdDS). This condition is characterized by a persistent feeling of motion or rocking, even after a person has returned to solid ground after a cruise or other extended period at sea. Hain’s research has helped to shed light on the underlying causes of MdDS and identify effective treatment options for those who suffer from this debilitating condition.

Hain’s research has also focused on the use of virtual reality and other technologies to simulate motion and help people overcome motion sickness. He has worked with a team of researchers to develop a virtual reality system that can be used to treat motion sickness in a clinical setting.

Overall, Timothy C. Hain’s research has helped to advance our understanding of motion sickness and improve treatment options for those who suffer from this condition. His work has been instrumental in developing new treatments and interventions that can help people overcome the symptoms of motion sickness and enjoy travel and other activities without discomfort.

The Cleveland Clinic and Motion Sickness

The Cleveland Clinic explains that motion sickness occurs when your brain can’t make sense of information sent from your eyes, ears, and body.

Lots of motion, whether on a car, airplane, boat, or even an amusement park ride, can make you feel queasy, clammy, or sick to your stomach. Some people may even vomit. Being carsick, seasick, or airsick is motion sickness.

The Cleveland Clinic offers several recommendations to help prevent motion sickness.

These include:

• Focusing on a fixed point in the distance
• Avoiding alcohol and greasy or spicy foods
• Getting fresh air
• Taking breaks to walk around
• Using over-the-counter medications, such as Dramamine or Bonine

If you’re still experiencing motion sickness symptoms after your cruise, the Cleveland Clinic recommends seeing a healthcare provider. They can help determine if you’re experiencing mal de debarquement syndrome, a rare condition that causes a feeling of motion sickness even after you’re no longer in motion.

Walking and Motion Sickness

Walking is a great way to alleviate motion sickness after a cruise. It helps your body adjust to being on land again and can reduce the feeling of dizziness and nausea.

Here are some tips to make walking more effective in reducing motion sickness:

• Start slow: Begin with a gentle stroll and gradually increase your pace as you feel more comfortable. Don’t push yourself too hard too soon.
• Focus on your surroundings: Look at the scenery around you, the trees, buildings, people, and animals. This will help your brain adjust to the new environment and reduce the feeling of disorientation.
• Take deep breaths: Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. This can help calm your nerves and reduce anxiety, which can exacerbate motion sickness.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during your walk. Dehydration can worsen motion sickness symptoms.
• Avoid heavy meals: Don’t eat a large meal before walking or during the walk. Stick to light snacks like fruits or nuts.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Choose comfortable shoes with good support. This will help you maintain your balance and prevent falls.

Walking after a cruise can be an effective way to reduce motion sickness symptoms. It helps your body adjust to being on land again and can reduce the feeling of dizziness and nausea. By following these tips, you can make the most of your walk and start feeling better sooner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: how do you get rid of motion sickness after a cruise.

A: Land sickness after a cruise can be uncomfortable, but it usually goes away on its own within a few days. However, there are some things you can do to alleviate the symptoms. Drinking plenty of fluids and staying hydrated can help reduce nausea and dizziness.

Ginger, either in the form of ginger ale or ginger supplements, is a natural remedy that may help ease motion sickness. Over-the-counter medications, such as meclizine or dimenhydrinate, can also be effective in treating motion sickness.

Q: How long does it take for motion sickness to go away after a cruise?

A: Motion sickness after a cruise can last for a few days to a few weeks, depending on the severity of the symptoms. Most people start to feel better within a few days of returning home, but some may experience lingering symptoms for a few weeks after the cruise.

Q: How long does post cruise vertigo last?

A: Post-cruise vertigo, also known as disembarkation syndrome, can last for a few days to a few weeks. The symptoms usually go away on their own, but in some cases, they may last for several months. If you are experiencing severe vertigo, you should consult a doctor.

Q: What are the symptoms of disembarkation sickness?

A: Disembarkation sickness, also known as mal de debarquement syndrome, can cause a range of symptoms, including dizziness, vertigo, nausea, headache, and fatigue. Some people may also experience difficulty with balance and coordination.

Q: What is the treatment for disembarkation sickness?

A: There is no specific treatment for disembarkation sickness, but symptoms can be managed with medications such as benzodiazepines and antihistamines.

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, which involves exercises to improve balance and coordination, may also be helpful for some people.

Q: Are there any patches for post-cruise motion sickness?

A: Yes, there are patches available that can help alleviate post-cruise motion sickness. These patches contain scopolamine, a medication that can help reduce nausea and dizziness.

However, scopolamine can cause side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and drowsiness, so it’s important to consult a doctor before using this medication.

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• Travel Tips

How To Stop The Rocking Feeling After A Cruise

Published: December 15, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Maressa Harty

Introduction

Going on a cruise can be a thrilling and unforgettable experience. The open sea, picturesque views, and luxurious amenities make it a popular choice for holidaymakers. However, for some people, the rocking feeling that persists even after disembarking can be quite unsettling. This post-cruise sensation, often referred to as “sea legs” or “land sickness,” can cause discomfort and disrupt daily activities. Luckily, there are ways to alleviate and even prevent this rocking feeling.

Understanding the rocking feeling is crucial to finding effective solutions. It occurs when the body’s balance system, which includes the inner ear and sensory receptors responsible for detecting motion and orientation, is thrown off balance. During the cruise, your body adjusts to the constant rocking motion of the ship. When you return to land, your balance system needs time to readjust to the stable environment, leading to the sensation of rocking.

There are several factors that can contribute to the severity and duration of the rocking feeling. The length of the cruise, the size of the ship, and the individual’s susceptibility all play a role. Some people may experience mild symptoms that subside after a few days, while others may have more intense and longer-lasting symptoms.

In the following sections, we will explore the common causes of the rocking feeling, as well as practical tips to minimize the discomfort during the cruise. We will also discuss coping strategies after the cruise, natural remedies that may help alleviate the rocking feeling, and when it’s important to seek medical help for severe symptoms.

By better understanding the rocking feeling and implementing the strategies outlined in this article, you can make your cruise experience more enjoyable and avoid the post-cruise discomfort that comes with it. So let’s set sail and discover how to stop the rocking feeling after a cruise!

Understanding the Rocking Feeling

The rocking feeling that occurs after a cruise, also known as “sea legs” or “land sickness,” can be an unsettling experience for many individuals. To better understand this sensation, it’s important to delve into the science behind it.

When you’re on a cruise ship, your body is constantly exposed to the rocking motion caused by the movement of the ship on the water. This motion stimulates the inner ear, which plays a vital role in maintaining balance and equilibrium. The inner ear contains fluid-filled canals and sensory receptors that detect motion and orientation.

During the cruise, your body adapts to the constant rocking motion, and your brain adjusts its perception of what is considered “normal.” This adaptation is known as “vestibular accommodation,” and it allows you to maintain balance despite the ship’s movement.

However, when you disembark from the cruise and return to a stable, stationary environment, your balance system needs time to readjust. The brain continues to perceive the rocking motion even though it is no longer present, leading to the sensation of rocking. This lingering effect can last for hours, days, or even weeks, depending on various factors.

It’s important to note that not everyone experiences the same degree of rocking feeling after a cruise. Some individuals may barely notice it, while others may find it persistent and bothersome. Factors that can influence the severity and duration of the rocking feeling include:

• The length of the cruise: The longer the time spent on the ship, the more the body adapts to the motion, potentially leading to a more pronounced rocking feeling afterward.
• The size and stability of the ship: Larger ships with advanced stabilizing technology may minimize the intensity of the rocking motion, reducing the likelihood of experiencing significant post-cruise discomfort.
• Individual susceptibility: Each person’s sensitivity to motion and ability to adapt to changes in equilibrium can vary. Some individuals may be more prone to experiencing the rocking feeling even with shorter cruises or smaller ships.

By understanding the underlying mechanisms of the rocking feeling, you can better prepare yourself for the post-cruise experience and take appropriate steps to minimize the discomfort. The following sections will delve into practical tips to help alleviate the rocking feeling during the cruise and provide strategies for coping with it after disembarking.

Causes of the Rocking Feeling

The rocking feeling that persists after a cruise can be attributed to various causes, ranging from physiological factors to environmental influences. Understanding these causes can help individuals better manage and mitigate the discomfort associated with the post-cruise sensation.

1. Vestibular Adaptation: The human body possesses a remarkable ability to adapt to changes in motion and maintain balance. During a cruise, the constant rocking motion stimulates the vestibular system in the inner ear, leading to a process called vestibular adaptation. This adaptation allows individuals to adjust to the ship’s motion and maintain equilibrium. However, when returning to solid ground, the vestibular system takes time to readjust, causing the sensation of continued rocking.

2. Sensory Conflicts: Our brain relies on multiple sensory inputs, including visual, vestibular (inner ear), and proprioceptive (body’s sense of position) signals, to maintain balance. When on a cruise ship, the visual cues and the body’s perceived motion align with the rocking motion, reducing sensory conflicts. However, upon disembarking, the visual cues of a stable environment contradict the expected rocking motion, leading to a sensory conflict and the sensation of rocking.

3. Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, play a crucial role in regulating the body’s balance and mood. Prolonged exposure to the rocking motion of a cruise ship can disrupt the balance of these neurotransmitters, potentially contributing to the rocking feeling after disembarking. The readjustment of neurotransmitter levels may take time, prolonging the duration of the post-cruise sensation.

4. Psychological Factors: The psychological aspect of motion sickness cannot be overlooked. Anxiety, fear, and stress can worsen the symptoms of the rocking feeling. The anticipation of discomfort or previous negative experiences with motion sickness can heighten the sensation of rocking, even if the physical causes are minimal.

5. Individual Sensitivity: Each individual has a unique threshold for motion adaptation and susceptibility to the rocking feeling. Some people are more prone to experiencing motion sickness and may have a harder time readjusting to stable ground after a cruise. Factors such as age, overall health, and previous experiences with motion sickness can influence an individual’s sensitivity to the rocking sensation.

It’s essential to recognize that the causes of the rocking feeling can vary among individuals, and multiple contributing factors may be at play. By understanding these causes, individuals can proactively address and manage the discomfort associated with the post-cruise sensation. In the next section, we will explore practical tips to minimize the rocking feeling during the cruise itself.

Tips to Minimize the Rocking Feeling During the Cruise

While it may not be possible to completely eliminate the rocking feeling during a cruise, there are several strategies you can employ to minimize its impact. By implementing these tips, you can enjoy your time on the ship and potentially reduce the intensity and duration of the post-cruise sensation. Here are some practical tips:

• Choose a Midship Cabin: Try to book a cabin located in the middle of the ship, as this area experiences less motion compared to the front or rear sections.
• Look at the Horizon: Focusing your gaze on a fixed point on the horizon can help stabilize your visual cues and reduce sensory conflicts. Look out at the open sea or find a spot on the ship with a clear view.
• Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen symptoms of motion sickness. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay properly hydrated.
• Avoid Alcohol and Heavy Meals: Consuming alcohol and large meals can disrupt your body’s equilibrium and increase the likelihood of experiencing motion sickness. Stick to light and easily digestible meals.
• Acupressure Bands: Acupressure bands, which apply pressure to specific points on your wrist, can help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness for some individuals. Wear them as directed.
• Take Medication: If you know you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking over-the-counter or prescription medication before the cruise. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist for recommendations.
• Focus on Fresh Air: Spending time on the open deck or balcony can provide fresh air and a sense of space, which may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
• Engage in Relaxation Techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm during the cruise.
• Keep a Steady Routine: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and eating meals at consistent times can help minimize disruptions to your body’s internal balance system.
• Try Ginger: Ginger has been shown to help alleviate nausea and motion sickness. Consider consuming ginger products, such as ginger ale, ginger candies, or ginger tea, during your cruise.

Remember, every individual is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It may be necessary to try different strategies or a combination of them to find what works best for you. By taking proactive measures to minimize the rocking feeling during the cruise, you can enhance your overall experience and potentially lessen the discomfort experienced after disembarking.

Coping Strategies After the Cruise

After disembarking from a cruise, it’s common to experience the lingering sensation of rocking, known as sea legs or land sickness. Coping with this discomfort is essential to resume your daily activities smoothly. These strategies can help you navigate the post-cruise period more comfortably:

• Allow for Adjustment Time: Recognize that it may take some time for your body to readjust to a stable environment after being on a moving ship. Be patient with yourself and don’t rush your activities.
• Take Breaks: If you find yourself feeling off-balance or dizzy, take regular breaks throughout the day to rest and sit down. Avoid activities that require quick movements or exertion until the rocking feeling subsides.
• Engage in Gentle Exercises: Light exercises, such as walking or gentle stretching, can help improve blood circulation and promote balance recovery. Start with low-impact activities and gradually increase exertion as you feel more stable.
• Maintain Good Posture: Focusing on maintaining proper posture can contribute to better balance and reduce the feeling of being off-kilter. Stand up straight, align your spine, and keep your head level.
• Minimize Stress: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate the rocking feeling. Engage in stress-reducing activities like yoga, deep breathing exercises, or meditation to promote relaxation and alleviate symptoms.
• Avoid Triggers: Certain stimuli, such as scrolling through your smartphone or watching fast-paced action movies, can aggravate the rocking feeling. Limit exposure to these triggers until your body fully readjusts.
• Stay Well Rested and Hydrated: Fatigue and dehydration can worsen the symptoms of land sickness. Make sure to get enough sleep and drink plenty of fluids to support your body’s recovery process.
• Seek Support: Share your experience with friends, family, or online communities who can provide understanding and support. Often, connecting with others who have gone through similar post-cruise sensations can be helpful.
• Focus on Gentle Activities: Engage in calming and gentle activities like reading, listening to music, or spending time in nature. These activities can distract your mind from the rocking feeling and help you relax.
• Consider Professional Help: If the rocking feeling persists or becomes severe, it may be beneficial to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. They can provide additional advice, recommend treatments, or rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Remember that the duration and severity of the rocking feeling can vary from person to person. It’s crucial to listen to your body and adopt coping strategies that work best for you. Eventually, as your balance system readjusts, the rocking feeling should diminish, allowing you to fully enjoy your post-cruise experiences.

Natural Remedies to Alleviate the Rocking Feeling

For individuals seeking natural alternatives to alleviate the rocking feeling after a cruise, there are several remedies that may provide relief. While these remedies may not work for everyone, they are worth trying as they are generally safe and free from side effects. Here are some natural remedies to consider:

• Ginger: Ginger is well-known for its ability to soothe nausea and alleviate motion sickness. It can be consumed in various forms such as ginger tea, ginger candies, or ginger capsules. Consider incorporating ginger into your daily routine to help ease the rocking feeling.
• Peppermint: Peppermint has calming properties that can help soothe an upset stomach. Sip on peppermint tea or chew on peppermint leaves to help alleviate any symptoms of nausea or discomfort.
• Aromatherapy: Essential oils, such as lavender or peppermint, can be used through aromatherapy to create a calming environment and reduce anxiety. Diffuse the oils in your living space or use them in a relaxing bath to promote a sense of well-being.
• Acupuncture or Acupressure: Traditional Chinese practices like acupuncture or acupressure can be effective in relieving symptoms of motion sickness and balancing the body’s energy. Consult with a trained practitioner to determine the best approach for you.
• Hydration and Electrolyte Balance: Drinking plenty of water and consuming electrolyte-rich fluids can help regulate the body’s fluid balance and minimize symptoms of the rocking feeling. Opt for natural coconut water or diluted fruit juices to replenish essential electrolytes.
• Herbal Supplements: Some herbal supplements, such as ginkgo biloba and chamomile, have been suggested to help reduce dizziness and promote balance. Speak with a healthcare professional or herbalist to find the right herbal supplement for your needs.
• Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 has shown promise in reducing symptoms of motion sickness. Incorporate foods rich in vitamin B6, such as bananas, avocados, and nuts, into your diet or consider taking a vitamin B6 supplement.
• Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing exercises can help you relax, reduce anxiety, and stabilize your body’s equilibrium. Take slow, deep breaths in through your nose and exhale through your mouth to promote a sense of calm and centeredness.
• Stay Grounded: Engaging in grounding techniques, such as walking barefoot on the grass or sand, can help restore a sense of stability and balance to your body’s equilibrium.
• Proper Nutrition: Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support overall health and potentially reduce the severity of the rocking feeling. Aim for a nutrient-dense diet to stabilize your body’s systems.

While these natural remedies may provide relief for the rocking feeling, it’s important to remember that their effectiveness can vary from person to person. It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new remedy, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. By exploring these natural alternatives, you may find a solution that helps alleviate the discomfort and allows you to enjoy your post-cruise experience with greater ease.

Seeking Medical Help for Severe Symptoms

While the rocking feeling after a cruise is typically temporary and subsides on its own, in some cases, the symptoms may persist or become severe. If you experience prolonged or intense rocking sensations that significantly impact your daily life, it may be necessary to seek medical help. Here are some indications that warrant medical attention:

• Severe and Prolonged Symptoms: If the rocking feeling persists for an extended period, lasting weeks or months, or if the symptoms worsen over time, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional. Severe and prolonged symptoms can significantly affect your quality of life and may require further evaluation.
• Significant Impairment of Daily Activities: If the rocking feeling hinders your ability to perform routine tasks or if it causes balance issues that put you at risk of falls or accidents, seeking medical assistance is crucial. Chronic dizziness and instability can have a profound impact on your overall well-being and should not be ignored.
• Chronic Anxiety or Depression: If you experience persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, or emotional distress due to the rocking feeling, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help determine if psychological support or counseling may be beneficial in managing the emotional impact of the symptoms.
• Unexplained Symptoms: If you experience additional concerning symptoms along with the rocking feeling, such as severe headaches, vision changes, hearing loss, or difficulty speaking, it is vital to seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms could indicate underlying health conditions that require prompt evaluation and treatment.
• Individualized Medical Advice: If you have pre-existing health conditions, are taking medications, or have any concerns about your symptoms, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and guidance based on your specific circumstances.

Remember, healthcare professionals have the knowledge and expertise to properly diagnose and manage medical conditions. They can perform a thorough evaluation, conduct appropriate tests if necessary, and recommend suitable treatments or interventions to address your specific symptoms. Seeking medical help ensures that you receive appropriate care and support for your individual needs.

Ultimately, with timely medical intervention and support, you can address severe symptoms effectively and find relief from the rocking feeling, enabling you to regain your normal daily activities and enjoy life to the fullest.

The rocking feeling after a cruise, also known as sea legs or land sickness, can be an uncomfortable and disruptive sensation. However, by understanding the causes and implementing practical strategies, you can minimize its impact and enjoy a smoother transition back to stable ground.

During the cruise, your body adapts to the constant motion of the ship, leading to a readjustment period when you return to land. Factors such as the length of the cruise, the size of the ship, and individual susceptibility can influence the severity and duration of the rocking feeling.

To minimize the rocking feeling during the cruise, it is advisable to choose a midship cabin, focus on the horizon, stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals, and consider wearing acupressure bands. Additionally, relaxation techniques, maintaining a steady routine, and trying natural remedies like ginger can also be beneficial.

After the cruise, coping strategies such as allowing for adjustment time, taking breaks, engaging in gentle exercises, and minimizing stress can help alleviate the rocking feeling. Natural remedies, including ginger, peppermint, aromatherapy, and acupuncture, may provide relief as well.

However, if the symptoms persist or become severe, seeking medical help is essential. Severe and prolonged symptoms, impairment of daily activities, chronic anxiety or depression, unexplained symptoms, or individual concerns warrant professional medical evaluation and support.

In conclusion, while the rocking feeling after a cruise can be unsettling, it is manageable. By implementing the tips, strategies, and natural remedies discussed in this article, you can navigate the post-cruise sensation more comfortably and ensure a smoother transition back to solid ground. Remember to listen to your body, seek support when needed, and prioritize your well-being throughout the process. With time and proper care, the rocking feeling will subside, allowing you to cherish the memories and experiences of your cruise adventure.

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USA TODAY 10Best

4 ways to combat land sickness on a cruise

December 26, 2022 // By Wendy O'Dea

By Wendy O'Dea Travel Expert December 26, 2022

I’ve taken my share of cruises over the years and can confirm that the concept of “sea legs” is real. While land sickness is milder than the more-serious condition known as mal de debarquement – or MDD (translation being the sickness of disembarkment) – the primary symptom of both is the phantom sensation of motion described as rocking, bobbing or swaying.

Land sickness and MDD are considered to be maladies of the inner ear’s vestibular system, which is responsible for our sense of balance and spatial orientation. However, another theory is that it occurs as your brain adjusts to being back on terra firma.

Interestingly, these conditions often impact women between the ages of 30 and 60 more frequently, but anyone who is on the water for an extended period of time is at risk. Although difficult to treat proactively, as sailors have learned, there are steps you can take to minimize the symptoms and get back to normal more quickly.

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Keep moving

If you’re standing still but feel like you’re not, sometimes the opposite also applies. If your schedule allows it, take a drive, go for a walk or participate in other forms of exercise. Ironically, moving your body is one of the best ways to minimize the feeling of movement.

Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol

As is the case with most conditions, one of the first lines of defense is to skip the liquor and drink plenty of water until symptoms subside. Water is the earth’s magic elixir, transporting nutrients to the cells and helping to efficiently regulate the body.

Rest and reduce stress

There are a myriad of benefits associated with getting proper rest, particularly when health challenges arise. Ensuring you’re well-rested and avoiding stress can help the body adapt more quickly once you’re back on land.

Supplements and medication

If you're a fan of herbs and supplements to help alleviate symptoms, ginger – fresh or candied – can sometimes do the trick. Some travelers also believe a decongestant or motion sickness remedy, such as Dramamine, can help. For more serious cases, doctors sometimes prescribe Vitamin B, ginkgo biloba or a mild sedative, such as valium. Consult your physician before taking these potential remedies.

Again, when it comes to land sickness, time is often the only real cure. However, if the symptoms persist or other symptoms develop (such as fatigue or depression), consult your doctor.

About Wendy O'Dea

Born and raised in western New York, Wendy O'Dea moved to L.A. to attend the USC graduate School of Journalism and stayed for the innovative and creative lifestyle the city offers. Other than the traffic, there's not much about California she doesn't love. You can track her gallivanting ways on Instagram via @WendyTravels .

Read more about Wendy O'Dea here.

Connect with Wendy via: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest

What Is Land Sickness—and Why Does it Happen?

The condition typically disappears after a few days on land, but there have been documented cases that lasted for months or even years.

Seasickness happens when a person’s body struggles to grow accustomed to a boat’s motion patterns, causing them to feel unsteady and often nauseated. But land sickness happens in reverse: A person’s body adapts to the motion of the waves, then struggles to return to homeostasis after reaching solid ground. Someone might sway or rock after leaving a boat; they may even begin to feel ill. 

What is land sickness?

One of the earliest known references to land sickness came from Erasmus Darwin in 1796, who wrote : 

“ Those, who have been upon the water in a boat or ship so long, that they have acquired the necessary habits of motion upon that unstable element, at their return on land frequently think in their reveries, or between sleeping and waking, that they observe the room, they sit in, or some of its furniture, to librate like the motion of the vessel. This I have experienced myself, and have been told, that after long voyages, it is some time before these ideas entirely vanish.” 

As Darwin’s description suggests, land sickness typically happens after someone has been out at sea for an extended trip, although the duration of their time on the water doesn’t necessarily correlate to the severity of their symptoms. Boats aren’t the only things to blame; airplanes and trains can also cause people to feel this sense of imbalance and unease. 

Some estimates suggest between 43 and 73 percent of people experience land sickness. The disorder can happen to anyone, but women from the age of 30 to 60 are more susceptible to it, as are those who experience migraines . 

What causes land sickness?

The exact cause of land sickness is still unknown. One of the leading theories is that consistent motion disrupts a person’s vestibular system. The vestibular system, which is located in the inner ear, is what helps people stay balanced and remain aware of their body’s position in space.

After prolonged exposure to a wave-like motion, a person’s body is typically able to adapt to the new environment. They’ll get used to the continual rocking movement. But once that motion stops, the person’s brain may continue reading the environment as if the waves are still rolling. This conflicting sensory information confuses the body and disrupts the vestibular system, making a person prone to feeling nauseated, unsteady, and generally unwell. 

Land sickness typically disappears after a person has spent a few days on land, but there have been documented cases of the condition lasting for months or even years.

Read More About the Human Body:

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How to Deal With Seasickness on a Cruise Ship

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In 2024, almost 35.7 million people will go on a cruise, myself included. While I love the warm days spent in port, unlimited ice cream, and dips in the pool while watching a movie on the outdoor screens, there is one thing I hate about cruising : seasickness.

Symptoms of seasickness can include nausea, dizziness, tiredness, and cold sweats. After sailing on more than 50 cruises across the world and in all types of weather, I’ve perfected my lineup of holy-grail packing essentials to help keep my seasickness at bay.

Whether you’re new to cruising and are worried about the motion of the ocean or you’re a seasoned cruiser looking for a new remedy to keep seasickness under control, we’ve got you covered with tried-and-true products worth a spot on your packing list . But first, a few things anyone prone to seasickness should consider before booking a cruise.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

What’s the difference between small and large ships?

There are many differences between small and large ships, but when it comes to seasickness, the bigger the vessel, the better. Passengers on smaller ships are more likely to feel every wave and bump that hits the side of the cruise ship. Cruisers who sail on large ships are less likely to feel the waves crashing against the hull. Just know that even on the world's biggest ships , the ocean is a strong force of nature, and if there are swells from a passing storm or rough seas, you may still get sick.

What cruise lines have stabilizers?

All modern cruise ships have stabilizers, which act as a counterbalance to keep the vessel from rolling from side to side. The stabilizers create drag in the ocean water to help keep the ship steady and lessen the noticeable movement of the ship. The less movement, the less likely you are to have seasickness.

More to consider before booking a cruise:

When booking a cruise, where and when you’re sailing can impact your likelihood of seasickness. Hurricane season in the Caribbean is from June until November, and before, during, and after storms the waters can be choppy. If this is a concern for you, book your cruise before or after hurricane season. You’ll also want to consider cabin location. Those looking to have the least motion in your room will want to book a stateroom that is mid-ship and on lower decks.

My number one tip for first-time cruisers:

My top tip for first-time cruisers is to be proactive instead of reactive. If you know you get motion sickness on theme park attractions or in a car, start taking some motion sickness pills or put on a motion sickness patch before the ship leaves port on day one. There’s nothing worse than sitting at a poolside bar enjoying the ocean views and suddenly feeling nauseous.

The best products to help with seasickness:

Ginger is a natural remedy for nausea. These ginger chews can be easily stowed in a fanny pack or small purse to keep handy when seasickness rears its ugly head while you’re out enjoying the ship. Even better is that the Prince of Peace brand is made without artificial flavors, additives, and colors and its chews are gluten-free.

If the taste of plain ginger isn’t for you, consider the UpSpring Stomach Settle Drops that combine ginger with lemon and honey for a more palatable way to calm seasickness. The drops are formulated to help with upset stomachs and motion sickness and can be easily tossed into a carry-on for a cruise. They are made without any artificial flavors or colors and are gluten-free.

Sea-Band wristbands work by putting pressure on the Nei-Kuan point on the underside of your wrist; for the best results, wear them on both wrists (two come in a pack). The wristbands are washable and reusable so you can bring them on future cruises, road trips, and amusement park visits, too.

For more severe cases, consider a Reliefband, a wrist wearable that uses a pattern of pulses to help relieve motion sickness and seasickness. The product is latex-free and the contacts are made from surgical-grade steel that are unlikely to irritate your skin. The rechargeable band has 10 intensity settings, which can be adjusted to your preference based on how seasickness is affecting you at any given time.

Meclizine is an over-the-counter chewable tablet that helps to ease seasickness and motion sickness. The 25-milligram tablets are fast-acting; I take these every morning when I’m on a cruise and one pill is enough to counteract any seasickness. This is also good to have on hand after a cruise since you can sometimes still feel the ocean movement as your body adjusts to being back on dry land. As with all medications, you should talk to your doctor before taking something new.

One product that can be used proactively before motion sickness sets in: these MQ Motion Sickness Patches. The patches are 100 percent herbal and non-drowsy. After placing one behind the ear, it takes about 10 minutes to activate; each patch can last for one to three days.

Condé Nast Traveler does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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How To Know If You Will Get Seasick On A Cruise (& PREVENT IT!)

Are you excited about your upcoming cruise but worried about getting seasick?

Don’t let the fear of feeling queasy ruin your adventure. Instead, arm yourself with knowledge and learn how to prevent seasickness before it even starts.

We’ll walk you through the most common causes and symptoms of seasickness, and provide you with actionable tips to minimize your risk of feeling sick on board.

From understanding the sensory mismatch that causes seasickness to learning how to choose the right cabin location, we’ve got you covered.

So, keep reading and get ready to set sail with confidence and comfort!

Table of Contents

How to Know If You Will Get Seasick on a Cruise

Before embarking on your dream cruise, it’s essential to consider how your body might react to the motion of the ship.

Seasickness, a form of motion sickness, occurs when the balance between what your eyes see and what your inner ear senses is off. This confusion can lead to symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and headaches.

Here are some tips to help you determine if you’re prone to seasickness:

• Consider your history of motion sickness : If you have experienced motion sickness before, say on a roller coaster or a boat ride, there’s a chance that you might experience it again on a cruise 2 . Keep in mind how your body reacted in the past, and consider taking precautions.
• Determine your sensitivity to movement : Some people are more sensitive to motion than others. Ask yourself how you usually handle activities like roller coasters, amusement park rides, and car trips. If these activities cause you discomfort, you may be more vulnerable to seasickness.
• Choose the right stateroom : The location of your stateroom can impact how much motion you feel. Staterooms near the middle of the ship and on lower decks tend to experience less motion, while staterooms near the front or back of the ship or on higher decks might magnify the sensation of movement. If you’re worried about seasickness, choose a stateroom where you’ll feel the least motion.
• Test the waters before you sail : If you’re unsure about your reaction to seasickness, consider going on a smaller boat excursion before your cruise. This will give you a chance to experience motion on the water and see how your body reacts. That way, you’ll be better prepared to manage or prevent seasickness during your cruise.

Remember, everyone’s body is different, and it’s possible that even if you haven’t experienced seasickness before, particular conditions might trigger symptoms during a cruise.

Knowing your body and taking necessary precautions are the best ways to ensure a smooth sailing experience.

What Causes Seasickness

Seasickness is a form of motion sickness that occurs when there’s a conflict between what your eyes see and what your inner ear senses while on a moving vessel like a cruise ship.

When your body feels motion but your eyes don’t see it, your senses become confused, leading to symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headaches, and tiredness 1 .

The root of seasickness lies in the inner ear, which houses the human balance mechanism.

The erratic motion of a cruise ship on the water can cause disturbances in the inner ear, making it challenging for your body to maintain equilibrium.

This disorientation can then lead to the onset of seasickness symptoms.

Understanding the factors that might put you at risk for seasickness can help you prepare for your cruise vacation. Some common risk factors for seasickness include:

• A history of motion sickness, especially if you have previously experienced seasickness or get car sick easily
• A sensitive inner ear, which may make you more susceptible to balance disruptions
• Sitting or standing in a position that intensifies the ship’s motion or restricts your view of the horizon, making it harder for your eyes to perceive motion
• Consuming alcohol, which can exacerbate the imbalance in your inner ear and increase susceptibility to seasickness

How Common Is It To Get Sick on a Cruise

How Many People Get Seasick on Cruises

It’s difficult to provide an exact number of people who get seasick on cruises because it varies depending on factors like the size and stability of the ship, weather conditions, and the individual’s susceptibility to motion sickness.

However, it’s important to know that most passengers do not experience seasickness on a cruise, especially on modern ships designed to minimize motion.

Do You Feel the Waves on a Cruise Ship?

The motion you may feel on a cruise ship depends on the ship’s size, design, and location.

Larger, more modern cruises are built with advanced stabilizers to help keep the ship steady and reduce the impact of waves.

These stabilizers can make a massive difference in the amount of motion you feel on board, often reducing the chances of getting seasick.

On the other hand, if you’re on a smaller ship or in rough waters, you might feel the waves more, increasing the likelihood of experiencing motion sickness. However, even in these situations, there are ways to minimize the effects of motion sickness, such as:

• Choosing a cabin in the middle of the ship and on a lower deck, where motion is typically less noticeable
• Spending time on deck, where you can see the horizon, which helps your brain recalibrate its sense of balance
• Avoiding heavy meals and alcohol, as these can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms

Remember that although it’s impossible to predict with certainty whether you’ll get seasick on a cruise, taking steps to mitigate the risk can make a significant difference in your overall experience.

With the right precautions and some understanding of the factors that influence seasickness, you’ll likely find that cruising is an enjoyable and comfortable way to explore the world.

Take a Day Trip to See Who Might Get Seasick on Your Cruise

A day trip on a boat can be a great way to gauge whether you or your travel companions may experience seasickness on an upcoming cruise.

By understanding your body’s response to being on a smaller vessel, you can better prepare for your cruise vacation.

Start by planning a day trip on a boat that has similar characteristics to a cruise ship, such as size and stability.

Take note of the weather conditions, as choppy waters or stormy skies can have a significant impact on seasickness susceptibility.

As you embark on your day trip, pay attention to how you feel when the boat is in motion.

Keep an eye out for early signs of seasickness, such as dizziness, nausea or cold sweats. Keep in mind that everyone’s experience with seasickness is different and may vary depending on conditions.

During the day trip, try out various locations on the boat. Some people find the middle of the vessel or areas with fresh air more comfortable, while others may prefer sitting near the horizon to maintain a steady view.

Experiment with different positions and make note of what works best for you and your travel companions.

Consider also trying some seasickness remedies during your day trip, such as ginger candies, acupressure wristbands, or over-the-counter medications.

This can give you an idea of which methods are most effective for you and help you better prepare for your upcoming cruise. Remember to consult your doctor or pharmacist for recommendations on medications or remedies.

By taking a day trip to assess your group’s potential susceptibility to seasickness, you’ll be well-prepared for your cruise experience and can make informed decisions about accommodations, activities, and remedies to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

What Kind of Cruise Ships Are Best to Avoid Seasickness

When choosing a cruise ship, there are several factors to consider if you want to minimize your chances of experiencing seasickness.

Larger ships tend to be more stable and provide a smoother ride, making them a better choice for those prone to seasickness.

Mega-ships, such as Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas , might be your best bet for avoiding seasickness, thanks to their sheer size and advanced stabilizing technology.

With these features, they are less likely to be affected by rough seas, providing a smoother sailing experience for passengers.

When selecting your stateroom, go for a cabin located near the middle of the ship and on a lower deck, as these areas tend to experience less motion.

This is because the middle of the ship is closer to its center of gravity, and lower decks are less affected by the ship’s movement and sway.

If you don’t want to rely solely on ship size and cabin location, consider your cruise itinerary. Some regions are more prone to rough seas than others.

For instance, Caribbean cruises tend to have calmer waters compared to the North Atlantic.

Research your destination and choose a route with a reputation for smooth sailing to further reduce the risk of seasickness.

In summary, to avoid seasickness on a cruise, consider the following:

• Choose a larger cruise ship
• Opt for a cabin in the middle of the ship and on a lower deck
• Research your destination and choose a route with calm waters

With these factors in mind, you’ll be better prepared to select a cruise ship and itinerary that can help reduce your chances of experiencing seasickness. Happy sailing!

Learning to Cope with Seasickness

Seasickness can be a concern for many people considering a cruise.

Understanding the factors that contribute to seasickness and learning how to cope with it can help you enjoy your time at sea.

Large cruise ships tend to be a lot better for those that tend to get seasick. Also, going out on the balcony and getting some fresh air can help ease the symptoms.

Stabilized Cruise Ships Help Prevent Seasickness

Most modern cruise ships are equipped with advanced stabilization systems that help to minimize the ship’s movement, making your journey smoother and more comfortable.

These stabilizers help to reduce the chances of seasickness for many passengers.

When booking your cruise, it’s a good idea to inquire about the ship’s stabilization technology and choose a ship that offers this feature.

Additionally, choosing a cabin in the middle of the ship, closer to sea level, may also help minimize motion and reduce your risk of experiencing seasickness. The closer you are to the center and the lower decks, the less motion you’re likely to feel.

Remember to stay hydrated and maintain your fluid intake during the cruise, as dehydration can contribute to seasickness symptoms.

Drink water, low-acidity juices like apple and carrot, or clear soup, and avoid milk and coffee.

How Long Does Seasickness Last on a Cruise

The duration of seasickness varies from person to person. For some, it may only last a few hours, while for others, it could take a day or two to acclimate to the ship’s motion.

In most cases, seasickness subsides as your body adjusts to the movement.

During the initial stages of your cruise, try to keep yourself busy and engaged in activities. This helps take your mind off the discomfort caused by seasickness.

If symptoms persist, consider over-the-counter or prescription medications to help alleviate symptoms. Many people find relief from seasickness by taking a short nap, as mentioned in hupla.co .

Understanding the factors that contribute to seasickness and learning how to cope with it can help you better prepare for your cruise and ensure a more enjoyable experience.

With the right precautions in place, you can focus on making the most of your time at sea.

What’s the Best Stateroom Location to Avoid Motion Sickness on a Cruise?

When booking a cruise, it’s important to consider your stateroom location for the maximum comfort and enjoyment during your voyage.

For those concerned about motion sickness, selecting the right cabin can be particularly crucial. So, let’s explore the best spots on a cruise ship to minimize your chances of feeling seasick.

Choose a stateroom that is in the middle (midship) of the ship to reduce motion sickness. The midship area on a lower deck will experience the least amount of sway compared to the other sections of the ship.

The lower and more centered your cabin, the less movement you’ll feel during your journey.

Although it may seem counterintuitive at first, selecting a stateroom with a window or a veranda can actually help combat seasickness.

Having a visual connection to the horizon helps your brain make sense of the movement, allowing you to better adapt to the motion of the ship.

Here’s a brief summary of the suggested stateroom locations to minimize motion sickness:

• Midship stateroom
• Window or veranda cabin

Lastly, avoid booking a guarantee stateroom if you think you might get seasick.

With these types of bookings, you can’t pick your cabin location, meaning you could end up in a room where the motion is more pronounced.

By following these tips and selecting the most suitable stateroom on a lower deck near the center of the ship, you’ll greatly improve your chances of having a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience, without the discomfort of motion sickness.

Motion Sickness Medication and Natural Remedies

If you’re worried about getting seasick on your next cruise, there are several over the counter medication and natural remedies you can consider to help prevent, alleviate symptoms or avoid seasickness altogether.

Taking proper precautions beforehand and exploring various options can make a huge difference during your trip.

Medications such as antihistamines can be helpful in preventing motion sickness and easing symptoms. Be sure to choose antihistamines that cause drowsiness, as non-drowsy formulas won’t be as effective for motion sickness relief Cleveland Clinic .

Another option to consider is scopolamine, which is available as an adhesive patch that you place behind your ear a few hours before you think you’ll need it WebMD .

There are also natural remedies available, which may be worth exploring. Ginger and chamomile are two herbs that have been found to be helpful for motion sickness and nausea Healthline .

You can try drinking ginger tea, taking ginger supplements, or even chewing on fresh ginger root to experience the benefits.

Acupressure is another natural method to help reduce motion sickness symptoms. Research on acupressure’s effectiveness for motion sickness is still in the early stages, but it has shown promising results in easing nausea related to postoperative cases Verywell Health .

You can try pressing the P6 acupressure point, which is located on the inner wrist, with the index finger of your opposite hand to alleviate nausea.

Lastly, making some changes during your cruise can help prevent seasickness:

• Avoid alcohol consumption in excess, as it can contribute to seasickness.
• Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.
• Eat moderately sized meals and avoid large, heavy meals that can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms. A small, light meal will sit better.
• Choose a cabin located in the middle of the ship, where motion is less extreme.

Consider these various medication and natural remedy options for motion sickness prevention and relief during your cruise, and find what works best for you.

There is no reason to avoid a cruise ship if you are prone to feeling seasick! Just being prepared before you board goes a long way in avoiding that nauseous feeling during your first cruise.

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How to Manage and Avoid Seasickness on Your Next Cruise

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Traveling by boat or cruise is exciting, but your experience onboard can vary depending on the weather. If you have an upcoming sail planned, it’s worth knowing how to prevent seasickness before you depart in case you experience severe weather during your crossing.

Whether you’re traveling on a small boat or a large ship, here are some of the best ways to prevent seasickness while sailing. (Top tip: check out these ideas before you travel so you can download any necessary tools without getting stung by maritime roaming charges).

What Is Seasickness and What Is It Caused By?

Before we dive into how to prevent seasickness, let’s look at what it is and why it happens. Understanding the condition can help you better prepare for and prevent it if the dreaded sensation hits.

Seasickness is a type of motion sickness. When there’s a lot of unusual movement occurring, your brain can’t process the conflicting information your eyes, ears, and body are sending. Your brain’s confused reaction to these muddled signals is what makes you feel seasick.

Symptoms of seasickness can include:

• Rapid breathing and heart rate

Although incredibly unpleasant, there are tools you can use to prevent seasickness. We’ve outlined five steps you can take to help avoid as well as manage feeling ill when at sea.

1. Breathe Slowly and Deeply

According to PubMed , controlled breathing (slow diaphragmatic breathing) has been shown to decrease motion sickness. Therefore, one of the best ways to prevent seasickness is to breathe slowly and deeply.

Controlled breathing can be trickier than you think, however, especially if you’ve not tried it before. Many of us are in the habit of breathing quickly and shallowly, so it can take a bit of practice to slow your breath down.

To help improve your breathing, you can download a meditation app that offers breathwork guides . This way, you can be prepared if seasickness overcomes you while you’re traveling.

It’s worthwhile practicing rhythmic breathing before you depart so that if and when seasickness hits, you can call upon this method automatically. Start by breathing through your nose gently and exhaling through your mouth. Try to slow your breathing down and make each inhale and exhale last as long as possible (don’t hold your breath!); counting can help you control the timing.

2. Stay Hydrated

There are plenty of hydration apps around that remind you to drink water , and you may need this reminder when you’re seasick. The thought of putting anything in your tummy while it's somersaulting can make you feel worse, but it’s important to stay hydrated if you become seasick.

The important thing to do when trying to stay hydrated is to sip your water. Downing a glass of water might hit your stomach wrong and come shooting back up as quickly as you swallowed it! (Remember, this is what we’re trying to avoid, not encourage). How you drink is almost more important than how much you drink when you’re poorly at sea.

To help prevent seasickness, make sure you drink plenty of water before you board your ship. Starting hydrated is better than trying to catch up later if you’re struggling to take in and keep down any fluids.

3. Lay Down and Sleep (if You Can)

If you’re feeling dizzy and nauseous onboard, one of the best things you can do is lay down flat on your back. This can help align the sensory cues that your brain has muddled up and will hopefully ease any nausea and other symptoms.

Prior to departing, however, it’s worth getting some extra sleep in to prevent seasickness, as feeling tired and exhausted can make you more susceptible to unpleasant symptoms. If you struggle with getting a good night's sleep, it might be worth trying an app designed to help battle insomnia or even investing in a smart sleep mask to improve your rest time.

Booking a cabin is a good option to help prevent seasickness. If you’re going on a long voyage and you have the option to book a cabin, pick one that’s close to the center of the boat (and lower down, if possible). There’s less motion here which will reduce your chance of becoming seasick. Having a cabin also provides somewhere quiet and private where you can lie down if seasickness hits you.

Even better: try to sleep off the seasickness. Think of sleep as time travel to freedom!

4. Listen to Soothing Sounds to Help Relax

While you’re laying down to prevent seasickness (or any other comfortable position you manage to settle in), listening to soothing sounds will help you relax. Anxiety and panic can make seasickness worse, so an ambient sounds app might do just the trick.

You’ll find plenty of apps for listening to calming sounds on your device’s app store. The trick is to pick one that you know will relax you, so trying out a few different apps when you’re still on dry land is advisable. There is a wide variety of sounds available, from rain and thunderstorm sounds to white noise and ambient music, so take the time to pick a sound app that you enjoy—and that you know will help you relax.

5. Listen to an Audiobook to Distract Yourself

If you’re struggling to prevent seasickness, the next best step you can take is to distract yourself from feeling ill, and what could be more enjoyably distracting than listening to a story?

Looking at your phone’s screen may make you feel worse, but if you are able to control your device with your voice , opening an audiobook app could be your best bet.

Listening to an audiobook is a fully immersive experience as you’re taken away to another world (i.e. a better one than the physical plane you’re currently suffering in!)

Audible is a popular audiobook app with plenty of stories to choose from, and you can often benefit from a free trial of the app if you’re not ready to purchase. Alternatively, there are other free and cheap audiobook apps you can try to find the perfect story to listen to.

If you're not an audiobook person, then you could listen to a podcast series instead. Podcasts are more accessible than audiobooks, and the majority of them are free. Just make sure you download any episodes or books you wish to listen to before you leave. If your ship doesn’t offer free Wifi, you don’t want to be stung with a whopping data bill for connecting to Maritime roaming charges.

How to Prevent Seasickness on Your Next Cruise

Feeling sick aboard your cruise can be miserable and unpleasant, but the steps above can help you prevent seasickness. Remember to take it easy, try to stay still and lay down if you can, and—if severe—reach out for help. There is always a team of trained first-aid staff aboard, so you can ask for help and support.

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Ultimate Guide to Seasickness When Cruising: Prevention, Treatment & Insurance

Last Updated: August 23, 2024 August 23, 2024

Cruise vacations are an incredible way to enjoy a Caribbean getaway or explore the world, but for some, the joy of the open sea is tempered by the discomfort of seasickness. Whether it’s your first cruise or you’ve already got your sea legs, symptoms of seasickness can creep up anytime.

Understanding how to manage your discomfort during rough seas or cruising to the next port can help you enjoy the voyage and focus on creating memories, rather than looking for the nearest can of Ginger Ale while you anxiously await the next shore excursion.

These expert tips on motion sickness prevention and treatment offer how cruise insurance can help offer you relief and comfort, allowing you to enjoy your cruise with peace of mind.

What is Seasickness?

Cruise travel sickness, or seasickness, occurs when your inner ear, eyes, and body send conflicting signals to your brain. It can affect anyone, regardless of age or experience, though some individuals are more prone to it.

These symptoms are triggered when the ship moves through big waves or intense currents.

Typically, people dealing with motion sickness feel symptoms like:

These symptoms can range from mild to severe, typically starting shortly after boarding the ship.

How Common is Seasickness While Cruising?

Seasickness is relatively common, especially for first-time cruisers or those sensitive to motion. According to the CDC , seasickness is one of the most common diagnoses for passengers seeking medical care on cruise ships, affecting up to 25% of travelers and accounting for about 10% of visitings to the medic onboard.

However, some say that most people don’t get seasick under normal circumstances because modern ships have stabilizers and navigational equipment to reduce movement. But, certain locations and times of the year can create conditions to increase the risk, like the choppy waters of Antarctica or the TransAtlantic, so it’s wise to understand your body and prepare for what you need.

Only You Can Prevent Seasickness When Cruising

Do you know where the best place to be on the ship is to help you avoid getting seasick on a cruise ship? Can choosing the right cruise line help mitigate any potential sickness? We’ll get into all this, so keep this information handy.

• Ship Size Matters: If you have a propensity for seasickness, smaller ships can worsen your symptoms. Whether you choose Royal Caribbean or Carnival, consider cruises with a giant boat with stabilizing options.
• Acclimate Yourself: Before setting sail, the CDC recommends spending time on deck to get used to the ship’s motion. So try to get there early.
• Stay Hydrated and Avoid Heavy Meals: Drinking water and eating light meals can help prevent nausea. Avoid alcohol and greasy or spicy foods, which can exacerbate symptoms.
• Use Preventative Medications: Many people find over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or Bonine effective.
• Focus On The Horizon: This can help stabilize your inner ear. When your eyes are fixed on a fixed point, like the horizon, it provides a visual reference that matches the motion your inner ear is detecting, reducing the conflict and thereby the symptoms of seasickness.
• Stay Busy: Distractions like games, reading, or socializing can take your mind off the motion, and if you can do all those activities
• Eat Green Apples: As it turns out, an apple a day can keep the doctor away, at least on a cruise ship. Cruise crew members attest that eating green apples can help ease any feelings of nausea. Worth a try!

Treatment Options for Motion Sickness on a Ship

If prevention strategies don’t work, there are several treatment options available, including natural remedies:

• Over-the-Counter Medications: If you didn’t take medication before boarding, you can still take it when symptoms begin. Motion sickness medications like Dramamine, Bonine, meclizine, and Scopolamine patches effectively mitigate seasickness symptoms. Read labels carefully, however, for any interactions, allergies, or side effects like drowsiness, and plan accordingly.
• Prescription Medications: If necessary, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications like Scopolamine patches for severe cases.
• Ginger and Peppermint: Ginger and peppermint are natural seasickness remedies known for their anti-nausea properties. Ginger tea and peppermint candies can help soothe your stomach.
• Acupuncture: Acupressure wristbands that apply compression to specific pressure points can help alleviate symptoms.
• Fresh Air: Getting fresh air can often help reduce nausea. Spending time on deck and taking deep breaths, inhaling through the nose, and exhaling through the mouth can provide relief.

Why Am I So Sick After a Cruise?

Sometimes, you might still feel unsteady or sick even after your cruise ends — this is a common condition known as land sickness or Mal de Debarquement Syndrome. It occurs when your body struggles to adjust to stable ground after being on the water. It’s a temporary condition and usually resolves within a few days, experts say; however, please check with your doctor before relying solely on this information.

How Long Does Motion Sickness Last on a Cruise?

Motion sickness typically lasts a few hours to a day, but symptoms can persist longer in severe cases, according to The Cleveland Clinic . Symptoms that continue after the cruise usually resolve within a few days, but of course, check with your doctor about your symptoms.

How Cruise Travel Insurance Can Help Seasickness

Travel insurance can be hugely helpful if you experience motion sickness and need to make trip changes. More than just a financial safety net, it provides security and protection.

Here’s how:

• Medical Coverage : Travel insurance can cover these costs if you need medical treatment onboard or at a port of call due to severe seasickness.
• Evacuation Coverage : In rare cases, severe seasickness can lead to a medical emergency requiring evacuation. Travel insurance can cover the significant costs associated with medical evacuations.
• Trip Interruption : If your cruise is interrupted due to severe seasickness, travel insurance can help cover the cost of catching up with your cruise or returning home.

Bottom Line: By taking preventative measures and knowing your treatment options, you can enjoy your cruise with peace of mind. And with the right travel insurance, you’re protected from the unexpected, ensuring your trip is smooth sailing from start to finish. Of course, if you need help choosing the best travel insurance policy, we’re ready to help!

How to Deal With Seasickness on a Cruise

Afar’s special cruise correspondent has been on dozens of cruises in her life. despite being prone to seasickness, she has mostly avoided it with these remedies..

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Don’t let rough waters ruin your cruise vacation.

Photo by Caleb George/Unsplash

I am a cruise writer who suffers from seasickness. But of the approximately 170 cruises I have been on in my life, I have only actually been sick twice, once in particularly strong waves off the coast of Corsica and once when the Pacific was misbehaving off Baja.

I’ve avoided motion sickness on a cruise by bringing the best motion sickness medicines for cruising and by being familiar with factors that contribute to not feeling great—and how to avoid them. For those who don’t know what seasickness is, it starts with your brain getting conflicting information from your inner ear and eyes.

“Inside the cabin of a rocking boat, for example, the inner ear detects changes in both up-and-down and side-to-side acceleration as one’s body bobs along with the boat,” according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration . “But, since the cabin moves with the passenger, one’s eyes register a relatively stable scene. Agitated by this perceptual incongruity, the brain responds with a cascade of stress-related hormones that can ultimately lead to nausea, vomiting, and vertigo.”

Here are some tried-and-true tips and advice for how to avoid motion sickness on a cruise.

Carefully pick your ship and destination

The medications currently available for motion sickness are strong enough that I recently felt only slightly off while crossing the notoriously rough Drake Passage (sometimes referred to as the Drake “shake”) between Cape Horn and Antarctica , albeit while the seas were mostly cooperating.

Still, you can ensure a smoother ride by sticking to destinations with relatively calm waters. Popular cruise itineraries tend to be on routes that are less prone to rockiness, such as in the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Alaska’s Inside Passage . Once you venture deep into the Atlantic and Pacific, you never know what you’ll get. You may want to keep this in mind if you are a first-time cruiser testing your sea legs.

You’ll experience virtually no seasickness on most river cruises . A great option for those who fear getting seasick are the mostly calm inland waters traversed by river ships.

Modern cruise ships have stabilizers, for a relatively smooth ride wherever you cruise. On big ships with thousands of passengers, you’ll typically feel little movement. Smaller ships may be more of a challenge, but here too you’re likely to find stabilizers. A new generation of expedition ships from brands such as Lindblad Expeditions and Aurora Expeditions are designed with an inverted bow, known as an X-Bow, for a smoother ride.

Choose the right cabin

If you are worried about getting seasick, don’t book a cabin or suite at the very front (or forward end) of the ship, at the very back (aka the aft) of the vessel, or on the upper deck of a ship. These staterooms often feel the most movement. You are better off finding a cabin dead center in the middle of the ship, the most stable area. Also, you might want to make sure you book a cabin with windows so that you can look at the horizon when the ship starts rocking—while it doesn’t work for everyone, keeping your eyes on the horizon can offer a stabilizing effect for some.

The best motion sickness medicines for cruises

If you are worried about being seasick, pack some seasickness medication—options include Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) and Bonine (meclizine). There is a downside to these medications, in that they may cause drowsiness. (There are some nondrowsy options available as well.)

My rule of thumb is to take a half a pill when I first get onboard and until I feel my body has adjusted to the movement of the sea (which may or may not occur after a couple of days on the water). If you have kids who have a tendency to get carsick, you may want to ask your pediatrician about Dramamine for kids that you can give them when they board and as you figure out how they are responding to the movement of the water.

I also listen carefully to the captain’s daily announcements, which usually include a weather forecast for the day ahead. If waves are predicted to be high (more than 15 feet by my standards), I will make sure to take motion sickness medicine—because the reality of the meds is that they don’t really help once you feel sick, so plan accordingly.

If you forgot to pack medication and are feeling ill, ask at the guest services desk or the medical center—they will likely have medicine and the pills are often free.

What if it gets very choppy?

If I am on a route known for rough weather, such as in the Antarctic, I switch out the over-the-counter pills for a prescription Transderm Scop (scopolamine) patch, which goes behind your ear and steadily delivers medication for up to three days. It’s strong and not for everyone, so ask your doctor whether it’s right for you. A downside to the patch is it can make you very thirsty. The patches are also expensive and may not be covered by your health insurance.

In a worst-case scenario, if you are suffering in very rough seas, the ship’s medical team may be able to give you a shot, which can help keep you from getting sick (aka vomiting) but not necessarily from feeling bad.

Homeopathic remedies

Acupressure wristbands , ginger pills , and candied ginger are among the nonmedication ways to deal with seasickness, and some people swear by them. It sounds completely counterintuitive, but you’ll also feel better if you aren’t hungry, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which recommends eating small amounts of food frequently to help prevent motion sickness. Fortunately, finding food is not a problem on most cruise ships. The CDC also recommends staying hydrated, while limiting both alcoholic and caffeinated beverages.

AFAR’s senior travel news editor Michelle Baran, a fellow sufferer of seasickness, says the wristbands work for her to help avoid getting seasick on a cruise; she also chews mint-flavored gum to help ward off stomach problems when sailing. Similar to seasickness medications, the wristbands will often only work if they are slipped on before the water actually gets choppy (she just puts them on and keeps them on for the duration of the cruise). She will also drink a bubbly soda such as ginger ale or cola and will make sure to look at the horizon to stabilize if she gets motion sickness on a cruise—though, like me, she has mostly managed to avoid seasickness by being prepared with medications such as Dramamine and using the above preventative measures and remedies.

Being out on deck in open air sometimes helps, but my own fail-safe remedy if I am feeling ill and all else fails is to lie down and shut my eyes, and either sleep or listen to music or the TV in my cabin.

Why am I still dizzy after a cruise?

Some people feel like they are still moving when they get off a cruise ship, as their body adjusts to being back on dry land. According to the Cleveland Clinic , this is totally normal, and the symptoms in most cases disappear within a day or two. If they don’t, you may have a rare syndrome known as Mal de Debarquement (MDD) that is still under study. The Clinic recommends you consult with your doctor if the symptoms persist.

>> Next: The Essential Cruise Packing List

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How Not to Get Seasick On a Cruise

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Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or take to the high seas every chance you can get, few words strike more fear in a land-lubber’s heart than “seasickness.” The rocking and rolling of the ship can wreak havoc on your vacation, leaving you feeling queasy instead of relaxed. 

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting seasick on your next maritime adventure and to treat the condition if it should occur.

What is seasickness?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, seasickness is a type of motion sickness (as are car sickness and air sickness). It happens when the brain isn’t able to make sense of the information being sent from the eyes, ears, muscles, and joints. When there is conflicting sensory input from these areas, the brain can’t tell if the body is moving or still.

Symptoms of motion sickness can include:

• Cold sweats
• Irritability
• Inability to concentrate
• Increased saliva, nausea, and vomiting
• Rapid breathing or gulping for air

Who is at risk of getting seasick?

Certain factors put people at higher risk of seasickness, such as:

• Being female
• Being ages 2 to 12
• Using hormonal birth control
• Having an inner ear disorder
• Having a family history of motion sickness
• Menstruation
• Parkinson’s disease

How long does seasickness last?

According to Celebrity Cruises, in most cases, cruise ship passengers will typically get their “sea legs,” meaning their sense of equilibrium will adjust, within a few hours to a couple of days.

What pre-cruise precautions can you take to avoid seasickness?

If you are concerned about becoming seasick on an upcoming cruise, the first thing to do is make an appointment with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have a history of motion sickness. They can provide tips and recommendations for over-the-counter (OTC) medications or prescriptions that you can use in the event motion sickness strikes. According to Carnival, OTC options include a variety of antiemetic drugs that prevent nausea, while stronger prescription options include scopolamine medicine in patch or pill form. The Mayo Clinic notes that taking antihistamines such as dimenhydrinate (brand name Dramamine and others) 30 to 60 minutes before setting sail can be helpful.

It’s also important to choose the right type of cruise to lessen your chances of seasickness. According to Celebrity Cruise, it’s best to avoid itineraries that include a lot of time sailing in open water. Rather, it’s better to opt for cruises that spend most of their time within a sea, such as European cruises that sail along the Mediterranean Sea or Caribbean cruises that depart from Puerto Rico.

Also consider the time of year. For instance, for those concerned about motion sickness, it’s advisable to book Caribbean cruises outside of the hurricane season (June through November).

If in doubt, try booking a cruise with a relatively short itinerary on a large ship (which are less prone to aggressive motion).

Another tip? Book an outer cabin with a window or balcony in the middle of the ship, which is the natural balance point, says Cruise Critic. Near the water level is best, according to the Cleveland Clinic. And be sure to get a good night’s sleep prior to your cruise (to the extent that you can with the anticipatory excitement!) so your body is in the best shape possible to deal with any motion sickness that should arise.

How can you avoid seasickness once you’re on board?

Once you’ve been welcomed aboard, have a light snack about an hour before you depart, which can help keep your stomach settled, and keep snacking every few hours throughout the cruise. That said, avoid fatty, spicy, or acidic foods and very heavy meals, and steer clear of alcohol, which can make symptoms of seasickness worse. Also be sure to stay hydrated by consuming adequate fluids. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, this is about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids each day for men and 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids each day for women from both food and beverages.

The Mayo Clinic notes that it’s important to avoid smoking or sitting near smokers. Keeping your head still while resting against a seat back and focusing on the horizon or a distant, stationary object (and avoiding reading or using electronic devices) can also keep symptoms at bay. 

What if you start to feel seasick?

If, despite your best efforts, you start to feel that telltale wave of nausea come over you, there are steps you can take to feel better. First, head to an outer deck of the ship , where the fresh air and wind can help keep your body temperature from rising, Carnival says. An area in the middle of the ship is another option, as the rolling of the waves will feel less extreme than on the outer edges. 

Also try wearing an acupressure band around your wrist, which will apply pressure to a specific spot reputed to relieve motion sickness. Having some ginger, whether via a supplement or some ginger ale or ginger candy, can be helpful for nausea, as can nibbling on some plain crackers and sipping on cold water or a carbonated, non-caffeinated drink, notes the Mayo Clinic. Mint, ginger, and lavender scents can be helpful as well, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

And if you’re still not feeling well, it’s a good idea to head to the medical center onboard your ship for medical attention. Typically, the infirmary will be located on a lower deck and will have regular hours reflected in the ship’s program (with staff on call 24 hours a day for emergencies).

Riding the waves on your next cruise

While the thought of getting seasick may dampen your interest in a cruise, remember that with the right preparations and precautions, you can significantly lower your chances of experiencing it. With these tips in hand, you’re all prepared to embark on your maritime journey, focusing on the exciting adventures that await on the high seas. Anchors aweigh, and bon voyage! 

Disclaimer of Medical Advice: This information does not constitute medical advice or recommendation of any kind, and you should not rely on any information contained in such posts or comments to replace consultations with your qualified healthcare professionals to meet your individual needs.

Diane Fennell, a New York City-based editor and writer, served as the Editorial Director of the Wellness Division for Diabetes Self-Management and its sister publications, covering diabetes and related health conditions for more than 20 years. A graduate of Columbia University, she is a proud pharophile and enjoys traveling to visit lighthouses in her spare time.

Motion Sickness, Sea Legs And How to Stop Swaying After Getting Back From Your Cruise

If you just got back from your cruise vacation and are feeling unsteady on your feet, you may be wondering what's going on. Aren't so-called "sea legs" a good thing that helps you adapt to motion caused by unstable water? Well, after spending several days - or even weeks - traveling on the ocean, your body has adapted and now it needs to adapt to life back on land again. This is the quick answer to why people feel like they are still swaying ... even after the cruise is over.

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• Understanding 'Sea Legs' as an Adaptation : The term "sea legs" refers to the body's adaptation to the motion of being on a boat, allowing people to maintain balance and stability at sea, while the reverse process, readjusting to land, can cause a feeling of swaying after disembarking.
• Causes of Motion Sickness on Cruises : Motion sickness on cruises can arise from the constant movement of the ship, size discrepancies with the waves, and the visual disorientation caused by the movement of the horizon, which confuses the inner ear and eyes.
• Symptoms of Disembarkation Syndrome : After a cruise, passengers may experience symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and a persistent feeling of swaying due to their body's previous adaptation to ship motion, known as Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS).
• Coping with Post-Cruise Swaying : To alleviate the swaying sensation after a cruise, strategies include getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, eating light meals, avoiding alcohol, and engaging in gentle exercises.
• Prevalence and Management of Sea Sickness : While less than 15% of cruisers typically experience motion sickness, the blog suggests consulting with a travel agent for optimal cabin placement and utilizing natural remedies and medications to manage symptoms effectively.

Best For Motion Sickness:

Worst for motion sickness:, get plenty of rest:, drink lots of fluids:, eat light meals:, avoid alcohol:, get fresh air:, do some light exercises:, avoid sudden movements:, symptoms of mdds include:, best and worst west coast cruises for people worried about motion sickness.

This is one of the most common questions that we get from clients who ask us to help them plan their cruise vacation. Unfortunately, there are too many variables ever to promise a completely calm cruise, but certainly, some cruises will be better than others. While no itinerary will also be 100% calm, and some people are more sensitive to the rocking of the ship caused by the ocean, some itineraries will be better than others if motion sickness on a cruise is a concern. For instance, 

Inside Passage Alaska Cruise sailing out of Vancouver will feature protected waters for most of your voyage without significant amounts of exposure to ocean swells.

Repositioning cruises to Seattle or Vancouver that pass by the Oregon Coast have a bad reputation for experiencing rough waters regularly. Specifically, the area between San Francisco and Astoria, Oregon but also all the way up the coast until you sail through the Straight of Juan de Fuca and ultimately enter the calm waters of the Salish Sea.

The intensity of motion from the ocean can be more of a factor for some people than others, but if "sea legs" and motion sickness are a concern, you should be prepared. This is a real condition that can affect anyone after spending an extended period of time on a boat or ship. Symptoms include dizziness, motion sickness, and swaying, and sometimes, there is a rocking feeling that continues after being on a boat.

In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common questions that our clients ask, including how to avoid motion sickness, how to get their sea legs, and how to stop swaying after a cruise! Are you ready? Let's begin.

How Calm Are Alaska Cruises vs. Caribbean?

Caribbean waters are among the consistently calm cruise areas found anywhere in the world. However, on the other hand, cruises to Alaska, Coastal California, and the Mexican Riviera can have some pretty significant ocean swells - though typically far from anything that would be generally uncomfortable for most guests. However, if you have taken a Caribbean cruise before and felt issues with sea legs, swaying after disembarkation or a general feeling of discomfort due to the motion then you should prepare accordingly and pack sea sickness remedies to help.

With that being said, as someone who has been on nearly two dozen cruises across both the Caribbean and Pacific Coastal itineraries, this chart is somewhat deceptive. The simple reason for this is that while most Caribbean itineraries take place close to islands that are protected from ocean swells - Pacific cruises - in particular those to Alaska - have EXTREMELY CALM waters once you get into the inside passage, even though the waters west of Vancouver Island can sometimes be rough. Similarly, I find that the seas are far more calm in the triangle area between Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan compared to the seas off the coast of Baja.

What Does, "I've Found My Sea Legs" Mean?

The phrase, "I've found my sea legs" is often used to describe the process of getting used to the motion of being on a boat. While not a guarantee that you will completely avoid suffering from motion sickness, it means that your body has begun to adapt to the environment. For some guests it can take a few hours or even a day or two for your body to adjust but for others they never will. Once you have adjusted, you should be able to walk around without feeling like the room is spinning.

The term first became common among sailors in the early 1700's as a term specifically referring to new mariners and conscripted sailors whose bodies acclimated to long boat trips and life at sea so that they were able to work on deck with a good sense of balance despite the motion of these naval vessels as they sailed across rough seas. Later the term became more broadly associated with other challenging tasks as a novice becomes comfortable with a complicated task.

While most people look at this merely as an adjustment to life at sea ... few people focus on the opposite, readjusting to life back on land. This is likely because these mariners were so glad to be back home that the phantom swaying sensation that they felt back on land was such a minor inconvenience that they didn't worry about it.

While life on a naval vessel is vastly different from a vacation on modern cruise ships, motion sickness from rough seas is a major concern for most new cruisers. Few of them consider the opposite concept, land sickness, much less refer to the process of finding their land legs again!

What Causes Motion Sickness On A Cruise?

Various things can cause motion sickness on a cruise, but the most common is simply being in unfamiliar surroundings. The human body is amazing at adapting to new situations, but it does take some time. In both seasickness as well landsickness, the sensation is caused by a condition in which the inner ear and eyes are sending conflicting messages to the brain. This is sometimes referred to as the vestibulo-ocular reflex and causes seasickness symptoms. Normally your brain and inner ear would be able operate in sync with each other but sometimes that just doesn't happen.

On a cruise ship, there are many potential sources of motion sickness:

• the constant motion of the ship or even the vibration from the ship's engine (even when it's not moving very fast)
• the size of the ship vs the motion of the waves (if you're in a rough sea, the ship will rock back and forth and smaller ships experience more profound motion compared to larger cruise ships)
• the relative movement of the distant horizon (despite calm seas, the gentle motion of the far off horizon going up and down vs the deck of the ship can be disorienting)

All of these factors can contribute to motion sickness, even for people who don't normally get seasick. It's important to remember that everyone is different and will react differently to these stimuli.

You can help avoid these unpleasant feelings by avoiding the top decks as well as areas all the way forward (such as an observation lounge or theater) or places in the aft (such as the buffet or main dining room). While each ship design is different, you can usually request accommodations such as sometimes there is a main dining room towards the middle of the ship instead of in the aft.

Luckily, most people are not affected badly by the movement of the ship and cruise lines are very good at charting routes that will avoid bad weather. Additionally, newer ships will experience less movement due to improvements such as stabilizers and innovative bow shapes. Additionally, there are many natural remedies for seasickness that have minimal side effects, such as green apples which can help neutralize stomach acid, sipping on some ginger ale or supplements that contain ginger or peppermint. For more acute instances, there are over the counter medications, motion sickness pills and acupressure wristbands help as well.

If you have concerns about motion sickness while at sea, make sure to work with your travel agent to select a good room location on a lower deck as well.

Why Do I Feel Like I'm Still Swaying After My Cruise?

If you are feeling like you're still swaying after your cruise, it's because your body has adapted to the motion of being on a boat. Just like it took time for your body to adjust to being on the water, it will take some time for your body to adjust back to life on land. This is perfectly normal and there is no need to be concerned. The best thing you can do is give yourself some time to readjust.

Like the feelings of seasickness, this is more commonly experienced among women due to a number of factors including the fact that Estrogen can contribute to feelings of motion sickness and this is often made worse by birth control pills that contain it as well as Estrogen supplements that are designed to help compensate for hormonal changes in middle-aged women.

How Long Does It Take To Readjust To Life On Land?

It usually takes a day or two for your body to readjust after being on a boat. For some people, readjusting to walking around on dry land can take just a few minutes. However, if you are still feeling unsteady after a few days, it's best to consult with your doctor.

What Are Some Tips For Stopping The Swaying Sensation?

If you are looking for ways to stop the swaying sensation, there are a few things you can try. However, for most people, the swaying sensation will go away quickly in just a few days of being off the water. Luckily there are plenty of effective remedies that will work for most people. This can be confusing the first time it happens and first-time cruisers returning after long trips may experience a brief period of these symptoms but that doesn't make it any less surprising.

When you're well-rested, your body is better able to handle stress and adapt to change. Make sure to get a good night's sleep and take breaks during the day if you can.

dehydration can make the symptoms of sea legs worse. Be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol while you're readjusting.

Eating smaller, lighter meals will help minimize any nausea or dizziness you may be feeling.

Alcohol can dehydrate your body and make the symptoms of sea legs worse. Avoid drinking alcohol while you're readjusting to life on land.

If you're feeling nauseous, try to stay cool. Drink lots of fluids and take a cool shower or bath if you can.

Spending time outside in the fresh air can help minimize the symptoms of sea legs. Take a walk, go for a swim, or just sit outside for a while.

Getting your body moving can help your body adjust more quickly. Try doing some light exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga. Consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.

Sudden movements can make the symptoms of sea legs worse. Avoid activities that require you to change directions or stop and start quickly.

While each person's physiology is unique, a combination of these methods to alleviate the swaying sensation will work for most people.

Mal De Débarquement Syndrome - When The Swaying Doesn't Go Away

Literally meaning "disembarkation sickness", Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdD S) is a motion disorder that can occur after exposure to motion, such as being on a boat or ship. MdDS is less common than sea legs, but it can be more severe and long-lasting. 

• a feeling of continuous rocking or swaying, even when you're not in motion
• trouble sleeping
• difficulty concentrating

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seeing your doctor is important. While there is no cure for MdDS, there are treatments that can help ease the symptoms.

Treatment options include: medication, vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), and lifestyle changes. VRT is a type of physical therapy that can help retrain your brain to process motion differently. Lifestyle changes may include things like avoiding alcohol, getting plenty of rest, and eating light meals.

Some people that suffer from this notice that symptoms get worse throughout the day and is less noticeable when they first wake up. This has led to some medical experts believing that it may be tied to fatigue or stress at causes the vestibular system to get worse.

If you are still feeling unsteady after a few days, it's best to consult with your doctor. MdDS is a motion disorder that can occur after exposure to motion, such as being on a boat or ship. Symptoms of MdDS include: a feeling of continuous rocking or swaying, even when you're not in motion; fatigue; trouble sleeping; anxiety; depression; difficulty concentrating. While there is no cure for MdDS, there are treatments that can help alleviate symptoms.

The Good News Is Most Healthy Individuals Will Not Get Sea Sick

This is in part because the areas where most cruise ships sail are usually calm waters, such as the Caribbean. However, there are areas like the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska, and even parts of Coastal California cruises that can have periods of rough seas due to weather or ocean currents. It is estimated that on a typical cruise, less than 15% of people experience motion sickness, and even fewer experience a dizzy feeling once they return to land. While it is common to feel a swaying sensation after returning to solid ground, this is something that most people will only feel for a short time.

Despite that, swaying after returning from a cruise is a common concern for folks who may have just returned from their first cruise.

If you want to avoid these sensations due to the motion of the ocean, make sure to do research before booking to select good cabin locations and avoid older ships and smaller cruise ships. While we love our small ship cruises, these vessels aren't the best place to be if you have fears of getting seasick.

Regardless, this is why we encourage our readers to work with a travel advisor. While they will not be able to provide specific medical advice, they can help advise new cruisers with finding the right cabin and important tips like avoiding heavy drinking and eating on the first night, as well as avoiding higher decks and the front of the ship until they've gotten their sea legs!

Thanks for reading. We hope this was helpful!

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author bio info

James is an avid fan of all types of cruising but especially enjoys exploring the Pacific coastal regions since it perfectly captures the elements that he is passionate about, including natural beauty, conservation, opportunities to explore new cultures, and meeting some fantastic new people too. 

clock This article was published more than  4 years ago

For some unlucky travelers, ‘disembarkation sickness’ strikes after the cruise is over

For Katy Breuer, the symptoms start as soon as she steps off a cruise ship. She feels dizzy and disoriented, can’t eat and can’t find her land legs. “It’s debilitating,” says Breuer, an executive coach from Vienna, Va.

It could be worse. For some travelers, the rocking never ends. They suffer from mal de debarquement syndrome (MdDS), a rare and chronic form of reverse motion sickness. Instead of getting seasick on board, their illness begins when they hit dry land — and it never ends.

Mal de debarquement syndrome — “disembarkation sickness” — is one of the least understood travel disorders. It’s also a topic of intense curiosity, particularly as travelers begin planning next year’s cruises.

“Mal de debarquement is a rare neurological condition described by some people as a continuous perception of self-motion and imbalance,” says Radhika Vij, director of international travel health services at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore.

Not everyone is as lucky as Breuer, whose illness was transient. Marilyn Josselyn got full-blown MdDS after a riverboat cruise in Russia in 1998. She had to quit her job as a court reporter because she couldn’t maintain her balance.

“I’ve been rocking ever since,” says Josselyn, who lives in Audubon, Pa.

Josselyn is working to raise awareness of her condition. She helped start the MdDS Foundation , a nonprofit organization that seeks treatments and a cure for MdDS. The organization maintains a private Facebook support group with more than 4,000 members and publishes a list of physicians who treat MdDS.

“There’s an extreme difference between MdDS and not being able to find your land legs,” she says. “MdDS can last years and years.”

Common symptoms of mal de debarquement include the feeling of rocking, swaying or bobbing, lasting several weeks or more. Patients have complained of MdDS after roller coasters, flight-simulator sessions — even sleeping on water beds. Anyone can get mal de debarquement, but women between ages 30 and 60 are most susceptible, experts say.

What causes mal de debarquement? Research suggests the problem doesn’t originate in the inner ear, which regulates balance, but in the brain.

“After a while, the brain adjusts to these new types of movements and in some instances is unable to readapt to its baseline patterns once the movement has stopped,” Vij says.

In the vast majority of cases, the symptoms of land sickness last only a few days. Heather Sykes took her first cruise last year to celebrate her 40th birthday. She knew she was susceptible to motion sickness, so she wore a scopolamine patch during the eight-day Western Caribbean trip.

“I didn’t experience seasickness during the cruise,” says Sykes, a program manager with the federal government who lives in Alexandria, Va. “But when I disembarked and took off the patch, I developed symptoms that were similar to a bad hangover, even though I had not had any alcohol and was well hydrated. The room was spinning, I was nauseous, and I was completely unable to focus on a computer or TV screen.” It took five days for her symptoms to abate.

“I will not go on a cruise again,” she says.

Although travelers most often experience these symptoms after cruises, doctors say, they can occur after any long journey. Consider what happened to Meredith Kulikowski, a government contractor from Laurel, Md. She took the auto train, round trip, from Lorton, Va., to Sanford, Fla.

“I was okay going down,” she remembers. “But I felt awful when I arrived in Virginia.”

Once her feet were back on solid ground, she says, she felt seasick and hung over.

“My equilibrium was off, and I just felt nauseous the whole time,” she says. “The symptoms lasted for about a week.”

Because land sickness is something of a mystery, there’s little agreement on prevention. Some medical experts told me you might avoid the ailment by taking the same steps you do to prevent motion sickness. Those include avoiding heavy meals and alcohol and — for brief boat rides — focusing on a fixed object in the distance during your journey.

Doctors may prescribe anti-seizure medications or antidepressants to treat mal de debarquement. But they’ll probably start your treatment by suggesting you reduce stressors in your life. Transcranial magnetic stimulation, a type of therapy that stimulates the brain with magnetic fields, and a therapy called readaptation of the vestibulo-ocular reflex, which helps your eyes adjust to being on land, are among the treatment options being explored. But they have not been thoroughly tested, according to the MdDS Foundation.

“It is a hard condition to treat, and options are limited,” says Vij, the Baltimore physician. “No one thing works for all.”

Some of the patients I interviewed about motion sickness on land said their post-cruise symptoms didn’t come as a surprise. They knew they were prone to motion sickness and weren’t shocked to feel as if they were still on the ship after making landfall.

Rick Orford, a frequent cruiser, says he experiences symptoms whenever he steps off a boat. “My legs feel wobbly. It’s as if I can still feel the sway of the ship,” he says.

Orford’s partner, Andrea Spallanzani, is a general surgeon in Italy. He’s watched Orford suffer from this little-known travel malaise and chronicled their adventures on a blog called Travel Addicts. A little exercise and antidepressants can lessen the symptoms of mal de debarquement, he says. “But there is no cure.”

Read more from Travel :

Read past Navigator columns here

Will I get seasick on a cruise? Here's what travelers should know.

Mackenzie Pollock had a feeling she’d get seasick on her first cruise .

The 29-year-old Oregon resident tends to get carsick, so when she felt nausea on a Caribbean sailing with Princess Cruises in February, it wasn’t a surprise. And she came prepared. 

Pollock talked to her doctor before the trip, who prescribed Scopolamine patches. She also stocked up on Bonine tablets after seeing videos about it online. “I’m a librarian,” she said. “I do copious amounts of research on everything.”

There were “days here and there” during the 20-day trip when she felt sick, like when they went in and out of Florida and sailed through a thunderstorm. But between the two medications and other coping strategies like sitting on her suite’s balcony, she was able to manage it and enjoy her time with family.

Getting seasick can put a damper on a cruise, but there are ways to keep it from ruining your trip.

Why do people get seasick?

Seasickness is a form of motion sickness. That happens when there is a difference between the information you get from your visual system, your inner ear and receptors in your muscles, according to Dr. Kathleen Cullen, a professor of biomedical engineering at Johns Hopkins University. In a cruise ship cabin, for instance, the surroundings might appear stable even while the vessel is moving.

“And this mismatch between what your visual system is experiencing and what your balance organs are telling your brain about how you're moving is sort of an alert signal to your brain that something is wrong,” said Cullen. “So, it's a sensory conflict that actually is the big problem.”

Motion sickness symptoms can include nausea, dizziness and vomiting. 

Some travelers are more vulnerable than others, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Those include kids between 2 and 12, and people who have a history of migraines, vertigo and vestibular disorders. “Pregnancy, menstruation, and taking hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives have also been identified as potential risk factors,” the health agency said on its website .

On the other hand, people older than 50 are less likely to develop it, and toddlers and infants are usually immune.

What is the worst cruise for seasickness?

While modern cruise ships have stabilizers that reduce their roll, some itineraries are more prone to choppy waters.

“If you're doing a transatlantic over to England , the North Atlantic can be pretty gnarly, especially in the winter,” said Rusty Pickett, a travel adviser and owner of Shellback Cruises. The Drake Passage, a feature of many Antarctica expedition sailings , is also notoriously treacherous.

Travelers can seek out calmer seas, though. ( Click here for USA TODAY’s guide to the best times to cruise by region.)

Where is the best cabin to avoid seasickness?

The bow of the ship tends to bounce up and down, said Pickett. “Lower in the ship, middle (and just aft of middle) minimizes the movement,” he added.

Booking a stateroom with a window so you can keep an eye on the horizon or getting fresh air – like Pollock did on her balcony – could also be helpful, Cullen said.

Short vs. long cruises: Which one is right for you? Here's how they compare.

How do I stop being seasick on a cruise?

Travelers can bring medications and other remedies with them. Prescription Scopolamine patches can help get passengers “over the hump,” Cullen said. There are also other over-the-counter medications like Dramamine.

Those can make users drowsy. Travelers should talk to their doctor about their options ahead of their cruise.

Ginger candies or ginger ale – made with real ginger – and acupressure wristbands may also be helpful.

After you board, Cullen recommends watching the horizon on the ship’s outer decks. “That's a pretty good way to keep yourself, initially, from getting motion sick if you're prone to it,” she said.

The CDC offers other suggestions , including lying down, closing your eyes and sleeping; limiting caffeinated and alcoholic drinks; eating small portions of food often; and not smoking.

What other options do passengers have?

Cruise ships generally have onboard medical staff that can treat a range of ailments, and Pickett said the vessels keep a supply of seasickness medication on hand.

During an Antarctica expedition I took with Aurora Expeditions in December, crew members also placed barf bags around the ship that passengers could grab if they felt sick while outside their rooms.

Pollock said feeling seasick didn’t put her off cruising, and she and her family plan to take another. “It was frustrating when it happened, but it didn't overshadow the trip at all.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Land Of Marvels

A travel blog, the truth about traveling : land sickness after a cruise.

July 2, 2018

Travel isn’t always perfect and not everything goes according to plan.  I’ve had numerous trips that we look back on now and laugh about how horrible they went, about how sick we were or about how many things could possibly go wrong all at once.  And as travelers it’s important that we’re honest about things and let others know that while amazing, travel can also cause problems and add stress to your life.  Such was the case for me on and after our cruise to Alaska.  I read hundreds of cruise reviews in the lead up to our trip and worried about getting sea sick on the cruise, so I brought Dramamine.  Thank God I did, as I did get severely dizzy and light headed a couple days into our cruise, but with rest and Dramamine, it subsided and I was fine the rest of the cruise.  Not to say I felt amazing, I didn’t.  The vibrations of the ship really bothered me and while the major dizziness faded, I definitely had a little bit of it the whole time.

Fast forward to about 4 days after we were home, off the ship and back to our normal lives.  I suddenly was getting spells of intermittent dizziness again, alongside a major brain fog and fatigue.  It was hard to concentrate and while my vision was alright, it just felt off.  I was seriously contemplating calling my doctor one day when I remembered something my Grandma had said about a friend of theirs years ago that had something called Land Sickness after disembarking from a cruise.  I immediately looked it up and after seeing it’s a thing realized that a lot of people get this but yet, when I was researching and talking to people about our cruise beforehand, not one person mentioned it.

Land sickness is a type of vertigo, yet instead of standard vertigo that is caused by the crystals of the inner ear, land sickness is caused by the brain, essentially your body and your brain are fighting to determine if you’re back on land or still at sea.  The brain fog, trouble concentrating, fatigue, a rocking sensation and dizziness are all common side effects of land sickness.  With further research, it’s totally different for everyone and the symptoms may range in strength as well as length.  Ultimately, they don’t know much about it.  But in an effort to bring awareness to something that not many people know about and something that affected me for weeks after our cruise, here’s what I know and what I did to help my symptoms go away.

You can get land sickness even if you don’t get sea sick.

From what I’ve read, some people who may never even get sea sick while at sea can still get land sickness.  So don’t write yourself off just yet – you potentially could still have this form of vertigo after getting off a ship even if the whole time on the ship you were totally fine.

Land sickness can last anywhere from hours to days to weeks, depending on the person.

Again from what I’ve read, land sickness can vary drastically in length depending on the person.  Some people only have it for a few hours, others have it for weeks like I did.  Sometimes it can last years if you have MDMS, which is a severe form of it. In truth, it’s really frustrating because you don’t know how long it’s going to last and you just kind of have to ride it out.  Mine ended up lasting a full two weeks after disembarking from the cruise.

Dramamine did help me, even though most people said it didn’t help them.

Everything I read in forums mentioned that Dramamine probably won’t help with land sickness.  I did find it helped me and I took 2 Dramamine tablets every day for a week or so and that seemed to help.  Apparently if you take Dramamine right when getting off the ship for a week, it helps to lesson the effects.  I didn’t know about any of this when we got off the ship and so mine didn’t actually start until 4 or 5 days after we got home.

You just have to give it time to heal on its own.  If it’s not gone in a few weeks, see your doctor.

Everyone says, you just have to let it go away on its own and let your body’s own internal system fix itself.  There is no rhyme or reason to why it goes away or stays as long as it does and everybody is different.  But if it’s severe enough that it’s hindering your life, make sure you see your doctor.  Mine was never bad enough that it stopped me from doing anything, I just felt as if I needed to alter my schedule a little bit and give myself more time if I needed to lay down for a bit when I got really dizzy.  But gauge your situation and figure out if you need to see a doctor or not.

Vertigo is very much a mystery and different things work for different people.

Vertigo in general as I’m learning is still a huge mystery to the medical community.  But whether standard vertigo dealing with the crystals in the inner ear or land sickness, both can be extremely debilitating and have a horrible effect on your mental health as well.  It’s important that each person finds what works for them and from others I’ve talked to, each person is totally different.  Some say certain foods are triggers, other say Xanax works for them to curb the dizziness, others say ice packs on their neck or shoulders.  For land sickness, walking or driving can help ease the dizziness and sleeping long nights can also help with the fatigue.  You have to find what works for you and often times, it can take a lot of trial and error to get to that conclusion.  Hang in there though, for most people, land sickness and vertigo go away on their own after a specified amount of time!

Emily of Em Busy Living says

July 2, 2018 at 6:57 am

I only went on a 3-night cruise once when I was like 12, but I do remember the land sickness afterward. We had driven to Florida (from VA) in the family van and I had a really hard time on the drive back, feeling like I was still rocking in the bed in our cabin. I have since had various inner ear problems in my life….not that I’m saying that this started it at all (of course not!) but I think I must just be naturally more susceptible to inner ear and vertigo issues. I was the only person on that trip who experienced any of that.

July 16, 2018 at 12:12 pm

Interesting! And yes, I think it definitely starts a chain reaction of other issues as time goes on.

July 12, 2018 at 5:20 pm

Woah! I had no idea this was a thing. There’s always a weird feeling when getting off the ship, but nothing like what you’ve described here. I do get really, really sea sick though if I’m not medicated.

I had no idea about it either until I got it! Super weird and annoying!

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How to Prevent Seasickness on a Cruise

Last updated: June 5th, 2024

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If the only thing standing between you and an unforgettable cruise vacation on one of Celebrity Cruises’ premium ships is worrying about whether or not you’ll get seasick on a cruise, these tips about dealing with motion sickness will ease your mind and body so you can happily book your cruise.

What causes seasickness?

Seasickness is a form of motion sickness that results when what your eye sees is out of balance with what your inner ear senses. If your body feels motion but your eye doesn’t see it, your senses become confused and can cause symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headaches, and tiredness.

Motion sickness can happen in almost any mode of travel, such as cars, trains, or even on a roller coaster.

How long does seasickness last on a cruise?

If you feel seasick at the start of a cruise, the good news is that for the great majority of passengers, seasickness usually subsides once you get your “sea legs,” which means your senses adjust and your equilibrium returns.

For most passengers who feel seasick at the start of a cruise, taking over-the-counter remedies and using the techniques recommended in this article will help you feel better in a few hours to a day or two. In some cases, particularly in rougher sea weather, seasickness may last longer.

Can you feel the ship move on a cruise?

Celebrity Cruises’ fleet of innovative cruise ships are so well designed and engineered that most of the time you won’t even feel the ship moving. Each ship is designed to give you as smooth a ride as possible without compromising the multiple activities available onboard and the spectacular on-deck views.

Our ships have stabilizers to keep the boat from rocking. Even a tilting of 1% is considered unacceptable, and Celebrity Cruises uses advanced technology to make sure your ship stays stable and calm.

What kind of cruise ships are best to avoid seasickness?

If you’re concerned about being seasick on a cruise, it’s good to know that Celebrity’s Solstice-class ships , which include Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Silhouette, Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Eclipse, and Celebrity Reflection, are built for smooth sailing, with fin-like stabilizers mounted beneath the ship’s waterline to ensure smooth sailing.

To give you an idea of the size and heft of these ships, each is built in post-Panamax dimensions, meaning they are too large to sail through the locks of the Panama Canal. At 122,000 to 126,000 tonnes, they glide through the water at a comfortable average speed of 24 knots, or about 27 miles per hour. They are steel-hull constructed and built with the safety and comfort of passengers in mind.

Celebrity’s newest class of ships, the Edge class, which includes Celebrity Edge and sister ship, Celebrity Apex , are the largest ships in our fleet. At 129,500 tonnes and reaching average cruising speeds of 22 knots, or about 25 miles per hour, they, too, are steel-hull constructed with stabilizers to ensure the safety and comfort of the passengers they carry.

Where is the best place to sail to avoid getting seasick on a cruise?

If you know you’re especially susceptible to seasickness, avoid itineraries that spend a lot of time sailing in open water. Cruise itineraries that stay within a sea, such as European cruises that sail along the Mediterranean Sea or Caribbean cruises that depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico are often good bets for having relatively calm waters during cruises.

One way to test the waters if you’re concerned about getting seasick on a cruise is to book a short cruise on a large ship that sails in calm water. We offer 2-night cruises from Florida to the Bahamas on our Millennium-class ship, Celebrity Infinity, and our newly revolutionized Solstice-class ship, Celebrity Equinox.

You’ll have one day at sea in each direction in the usually calm waters between Fort Lauderdale or Miami and the Bahamas. When in port, you’ll have a day to relax and play in the warm sunshine, clear blue water, and white-sand beaches of Nassau .

Another way to minimize your chances of becoming seasick on a cruise is to book a cruise that sails on one of our largest ships, like Celebrity Edge or Celebrity Apex, with 10- or 11-night itineraries that sail within the generally calm waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Cruise from Rome on a 10-night itinerary visiting some of the most beautiful destinations in the Mediterranean, like Sicily, Naples, and the gorgeous Greek Islands. Or, sail an 11-night itinerary departing from Rome to Naples and Messina, Corfu, Greece, and up the Dalmatian Coast to Dubrovnik and Split, Croatia, and Trieste in Northern Italy.

On each of these sailings, you’ll only have two nights at sea, with the remaining time spent in port enjoying the glorious sights and pleasure of the Mediterranean.

When choosing an itinerary to avoid seasickness, consider the time of year as well. For instance, the best time to cruise the Caribbean is outside the hurricane season—the months of June through November—as they can increase the wave height and the ship movement you might feel while at sea.

Read: Cruising During Hurricane Season

What’s the best stateroom location to avoid motion sickness on a cruise?

To reduce motion sickness, choose a stateroom in the middle of the ship on a lower deck. You will feel any sway of the ship less in this section.

Although it may seem counterintuitive, if you’re worried about seasickness on a cruise, book a stateroom with a window or a veranda. Fresh air access and a horizon view will help alleviate seasickness symptoms.

If lower levels are already booked or you’d like to be on a higher deck for an elevated view or to be closer to the activities on the top decks, book a stateroom in the middle of the ship and avoid staterooms near the front or back (bow or aft) of the ship.

The ships’ deck plans will help you pinpoint the best stateroom location for your needs.

Read: Cruising While Pregnant

What remedies are available to alleviate seasickness on a cruise?

One way to avoid seasickness on a cruise is to get enough rest. Lack of sleep and exhaustion can make you more susceptible to motion sickness.

Motion sickness medication and natural remedies

If you think you might experience motion sickness on a cruise, it’s best to be prepared. There are several over-the-counter, natural, and doctor-prescribed remedies that can help. Be sure to pack whatever seasickness remedy you choose in your carry-on bag, and take as directed, which may mean a few hours prior to boarding your ship.

If you have a doctor-prescribed transdermal patch (scopolamine), apply it as directed at least four hours before boarding your ship. The patch is active for three days, so if you’re traveling on a longer cruise, you should pack replacements.

Don’t panic if you forget to pack motion sickness medication. At the guest relations desk onboard, you’ll find tablets that will help combat seasickness.

There are also some tried and true natural remedies to alleviate the symptoms of seasickness. Ginger, whether in pill form or as a candy, is easy to keep handy as you cruise. Sucking on peppermint candy or smelling peppermint oil is also helpful.

Acupressure & acupuncture

Wearing an acupressure band around your wrist is another natural way to alleviate sea sickness. If you want to take pressure-point therapy one step further, forego the band and seek out an acupuncture specialist. Our onboard spas have acupuncture technicians who will help you relieve your motion sickness.

Though being seasick on a cruise may make you want to curl up in your stateroom and stay there, you’ll be amazed at how dramatically better you’ll feel if you get out and breathe in some fresh air. At the very least, step out on your veranda, take a breath of fresh air, find a spot on the horizon, and keep your eyes on it.

Make an effort to get up to the top deck and do the same. Breathing in fresh air while keeping your eyes on the horizon helps your mind and body get back in sync and may alleviate your symptoms.

What should I eat and drink to avoid motion sickness on a cruise ship?

It may sound like the last thing you want to do, but keeping your stomach full by eating small meals and snacks throughout the day can help ward off nausea from seasickness. At the very least, regularly sipping ginger ale and eating crackers may do the trick for the first 24 hours.

If you’re prone to seasickness, be cautious of your alcohol intake as alcohol can increase dehydration and exacerbate the effects of motion sickness.

Staying hydrated during your cruise is vital, as dehydration can make you feel more seasick.  Our Zero Proof drink package includes unlimited bottles of sparkling and still water, such as San Pellegrino, Acqua Panna, and Evian.

Now that you know how to combat seasickness, browse our cruise itineraries , view cruise accommodations, fights, and activities all in one place or speak to one of our cruise vacation specialists at 1-800-852-8086.

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Want to Take a Cruise to Antarctica? Here's What You Should Know Before You Book

Here's everything you need to know before you book a cruise to Antarctica.

Picking the Best Antarctica Cruise

Expedition companies and cruise lines, best time to go to antarctica, choosing an itinerary, getting there, what to pack, health and safety considerations, life on board an antarctic cruise, exploring antarctica, environmental considerations, antarctica tips to know before you go.

Wolfgang Kaehler/Avalon/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Traveling to the elusive seventh continent has never been easier, thanks to the rapid growth of the expedition cruise industry. But why travel to Antarctica? Visiting the White Continent is far more than just checking a box. It's an opportunity to see a part of Earth that's radically different than anywhere else — and radically removed from everywhere else — reminding you just how extraordinary our planet is. Plus, there are penguins. Lots of penguins.

If you're hoping to visit Antarctica, the process of planning can feel overwhelming. With so many cruise lines and expedition operators in the game, and so many variables to consider when booking a trip, making decisions about your voyage isn't easy. But it's crucial that you pick the right cruise for you, particularly since this might be a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. (Unless you're like me and become hooked, returning time and time again…) To that end, we're here to help you build the foundation for your trip with this ultimate guide to Antarctica cruises, covering everything you need to know before you book.

Antarctica cruises are not created equal. Though the scenery will be stunning no matter which operator you see it with, you need to ensure you're choosing the cruise that best suits your style of travel and your interests. Here are some factors to consider before you book:

goinyk/Getty Images

This might be the most important detail to focus on when selecting an Antarctic cruise. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) limits a ship's operations based on passenger capacity, so your vessel's capacity has a direct impact on the experience you'll have in Antarctica. Choose your ship wisely with these IAATO criteria in mind.

• Small ships (200 passengers or fewer): These ships can visit all landing sites.
• Medium ships (201 to 500 passengers): These ships are limited to specific landing sites that can handle higher capacity.
• Large ships (500+ passengers): Ships with more than 500 passengers are not allowed to make landings at all, so you'll only be doing scenic cruising in Antarctica, not setting foot on the continent.

Luxury Level

The ships sailing to Antarctica run the gamut from bare-bones former research vessels to ultra-luxe purpose-built vessels. Naturally, cruises on the more luxurious vessels tend to cost more. Think about what's most important to you on a cruise — do you want butler service and a spa, or would you prefer to save a few thousand dollars for an older ship with fewer amenities?

I've journeyed to Antarctica five times — each with a different operator — and would happily go back time and time again. Here's what you can expect from the operators I've traveled with.

oversnap/Getty Images

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad has been taking guests to Antarctica since 1966, and the company remains one of the preeminent operators in the region. Its fleet of Antarctic vessels — including its new luxury ships National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution  — carry a maximum of 148 guests, ensuring an intimate experience with plenty of time ashore. Education is a key pillar of the company, and its expedition staff and their lectures are second to none.

Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II are ultra-luxury ships that look more like sleek yachts than they do expedition vessels, not only on the outside, but on the inside, too. Standouts on these ships include helicopters and submersibles, nearly a dozen dining options, and a relaxing spa. Even with all these amenities, the ships only carry 200 passengers in Antarctica, allowing them to take advantage of the small ship–only landing sites.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

A newcomer to the game, Atlas Ocean Voyages debuted in 2021, and its fleet of new-build expedition ships each have a different design personality. For instance, World Traveller , the ship I sailed on, is inspired by "la dolce vita" and features retro nautical decor. Atlas Ocean Voyages' niche in the market is somewhere between an expedition and a classic cruise — the roughly 200-passenger ships are no doubt expedition vessels, but the programming has some traditional cruise-like elements, such as musical performances at night.

Viking's two expedition ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, carry a maximum of 378 passengers, so they fall into the medium-size category. As such, landings are generally limited to one site per day, which creates a more laid-back Antarctica experience — there's plenty of time to enjoy the out-of-this-world spa (my favorite feature is the open-air badestamp , a wooden hot tub) as well as hands-on science demonstrations. But there's a lot to do off the ships, too, as they carry quite a few toys: notably, submersibles. 

Aurora Expeditions

Adventure is in Aurora Expeditions' DNA. This Australian operator is perfect for those seeking as much action as they can get. I found landings with Aurora to be far more active than my experiences with other carriers — for example, I covered more than five miles on Deception Island, climbing up hills to get to scenic overlooks. Plus, for an extra fee, you can choose one activity group to join: snorkeling and paddling were offered on my sailing, while skiing is an option earlier in the season. Aurora's ships may skew a touch more utilitarian than high-design, but these are expedition powerhouses. 

Other Cruise Lines and Operators in Antarctica to Consider

Of course, there are many other operators in Antarctica, too. Quark Expeditions, Abercrombie & Kent, Natural Habitat Adventures (NatHab), Silversea, Seabourn, HX (Hurtigruten), Ponant, Adventures by Disney, Albatros Expeditions, Princess Cruises, Antarctica21, Oceanwide Expeditions, and Swan Hellenic are all worth a look.

Once you've chosen a cruise operator, though, what comes next? It's time to narrow down your itinerary options, then book your flight.

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

The Antarctic cruising season runs in austral summer (that is, Southern Hemisphere summer), from November through March. "Within that time frame, there’s truly no bad time to travel," says Trey Byus, Lindblad Expeditions' chief expedition officer. "Summer temperatures usually range from a crisp and cool 32° F to 65° F, and while specific conditions and wildlife events occur during specific months, interesting and exciting activity occurs throughout the season." Here's what you might experience at each different time.

November–early December : Experience Antarctica at its most pristine, with thick snow blanketing much of the landscape. "Guests on early-season Antarctica expeditions are likely to see penguins building their nests and seal pups still being weaned by their mothers," says Byus. "In the early season, when ice conditions are just right, our captain is more likely to be able to 'park' the ship in the sea ice so that our expedition team can lead a walk among penguins ... Early November departures also offer the possibility to cross-country ski or snowshoe across the frozen sea ice, conditions permitting."

Late December–January: This is peak season in Antarctica, particularly for penguin sightings. Penguin chicks start to hatch in late December, and they'll be running around by mid-January. "You will also experience nearly a full 24 hours of daylight," says Aaron Lawton, Viking's head of expedition operations.

February-March: Later in the season, there may be less snow, but there will be more whales. "As the region transforms from summer to autumn, March is an ideal time for those interested in captivating photography against softer lighting as the angle of the sun reduces harsh shadows," notes Colby Brokvist, an expedition leader for Natural Habitat Adventures, a certified senior polar guide with the Polar Tourism Guides Association, and author of "The Professional Guide's Handbook."

“I have had the privilege to visit Antarctica more than 100 times over the last 25 years, and I can tell you that every trip is unique and special — no matter what time of year you experience it," adds Lawton.

While some travelers choose to visit just Antarctica, many cruise lines offer extended itineraries that also include the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and South Georgia. Both destinations are rife with wildlife — South Georgia notably has massive colonies of king penguins — as well as human history. If you can swing the time commitment, which usually spans a minimum of three weeks, visit all three destinations!

Most Antarctica cruises explore the Antarctic Peninsula, departing from Ushuaia, Argentina; Punta Arenas, Chile; or Puerto Williams, Chile. While some operators will have you book flights to these cities, most will have you fly to either Buenos Aires or Santiago for a night before catching a chartered group flight to your embarkation city. 

Traditional cruises have you sail the infamous Drake Passage, but you can also choose a fly-fly cruise or a fly-sail cruise that has you skip the Drake (in one or both directions) by flying between Punta Arenas and King George Island. These flights can save you time, but there are a lot of ifs, ands, or buts — on my fly-fly cruise, our flight was delayed three days due to poor conditions. If it had been delayed any further, our cruise would have been canceled. Be sure to read the fine print when booking a cruise that includes flights to and/or from Antarctica.

There are also a few Antarctica cruises that depart from New Zealand, which explore the Ross Sea side of Antarctica.

There are two questions everyone asks about Antarctica: what should I pack, and will I get seasick? Your expedition company or cruise line will provide you with a packing list — and Travel + Leisure has created an Antarctica packing list of our own — but some of the basics you'll definitely need include base layers, mid layers (like fleeces), waterproof outer layers (including pants!), and knee-high waterproof boots, plus general cold-weather gear like warm hats and waterproof gloves. Many luxury operators will give you a waterproof parka you can take home, as well as provide you with loaner waterproof pants and waterproof boots. You'll also want to take a bathing suit for the polar plunge, if you dare.

As for onboard apparel, many expedition cruise lines take a laid-back approach. "One of the main things we prioritize on our Antarctic voyages is comfort, as we promote a relaxed atmosphere on every journey," says Byus of Lindblad Expeditions' onboard experience. "We always recommend dressing for comfort, practicality, and the conditions in the region you're exploring." Other cruise operators might have you dress in resort casual attire in the evenings.

Seasickness

When you're crossing the Drake Passage, conditions can be calm (Drake Lake) or chaotic (Drake Shake). "No amount of technology can keep these seas from being rough, though there are ways to mitigate the impact the weather has on the guest experience, and there are certainly plenty of crossings where the seas are relatively calm," says Byus. "Our team works hard — analyzing weather forecasts to pick a window through storms and deploying stabilizers that minimize side-to-side rolling motion. But even then, every person handles motion differently."

So it's very possible you'll get seasick on the Drake — or even in open seas down in Antarctica. "Seasickness is possible, and we recommend adopting practices like focusing on the horizon, staying hydrated, and choosing a centrally located cabin for greater stability," says Brokvist. "For some travelers, additional measures can be taken such as over-the-counter medications, wristbands, or prescription options." Ships will also have an onboard doctor who can provide seasickness medication if you've forgotten yours at home or if you've run out.

Visiting Antarctica is not like cruising the Mediterranean or the Caribbean — there are no piers for easy access, nor are there sheltered tenders that protect you from the elements. You will be expected to board heavy-duty inflatable vessels called Zodiacs to go ashore, and getting in and out of them requires a fair bit of mobility (though expedition staff will, of course, be on hand to help you). Then, when you're ashore, the terrain may be uneven and difficult to traverse — expect wobbly rocks, deep snow, and slippery penguin guano. "Being careful is essential given the remoteness of the location and the limited access to medical facilities," says Brokvist.

If mobility isn't your strong suit, you can always stay onboard the ship. Or, in the case of Viking, you can leave the ship via a "Special Operations Boat," which may be easier to get into and out of for some travelers. "Guests who have a more limited range of mobility might enjoy viewing the White Continent from one of Viking’s two Special Operation Boats, fitted with comfortable seats offering excellent viewing opportunities," says Lawton. Just note that these boats will not make landings ashore like the Zodiacs.

While you might know what to expect on a traditional ocean cruise, an expedition cruise is an entirely different experience. 

Accommodations

Accommodations very much depend on the luxury level of the ship. On older expedition ships, you might be sleeping in twin-size beds (or potentially even bunks) with a small porthole for a window. On newer luxury ships, you might have a full suite with a soaking tub, balcony, and butler service. If you're traveling solo, read the fine print for your carrier: some ships have specific cabins dedicated to solo travelers, while others may pair you with a roommate. Though a cabin of one's own may sound ideal, choosing the roommate option can be a good way to save money, as many operators charge a single supplement for solo travelers who book their own cabins.

Smaller expedition ships typically only have one or two restaurants onboard, with special dining opportunities like an on-deck barbecue or a chef's table on certain nights. But some ships have multiple restaurants to cater to diverse palates, serving various cuisines. As for beverages, what's included in your cruise fare depends on your operator. Some are all-inclusive, and others are à la carte.

Entertainment

Again, entertainment varies per operator and ship, but the typical program always includes lectures about Antarctica from expedition staff — all experts in various fields, from glaciology to marine biology to history.  Some ships might offer hands-on science experiments, while others might include nightly musical performances.

Your experience in Antarctica will be shaped by whether you've chosen an expedition cruise where you'll make landings or a scenic cruise. In either case, every day will be different. Though expedition leaders and captains have a general plan for the itinerary, day-to-day operations will be based on the weather and ice conditions.

Expedition Cruises

On small ships with 200 passengers or fewer, your day typically starts early, as you'll have both a morning and an afternoon excursion. On larger ships, you'll probably only get off the ship once per day. That's because IAATO only allows 100 guests per ship ashore at a time — on higher-capacity ships, you'll have to wait your turn. 

Mint Images - David Schultz/Getty Images

Excursions almost always include one of two options: a landing or Zodiac cruising. Landings take place at designated sites across Antarctica, and experiences usually include short walks, wildlife viewing (like penguins, other seabirds, and seals if you're lucky), and occasional visits to historic structures, such as a hut at Damoy Point built as an "airport terminal" of sorts in the 1970s. Another popular landing site is Port Lockroy, a staffed facility operated by the United Kingdom Antarctic Heritage Trust that includes a museum and an operational post office.

Some operators offer a variety of other excursions — some paid, some included — such as kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, skiing, camping, helicopter flights, and submersible dives. It all depends on the capabilities of the operator and the ship.

Scenic Cruises

If you're on a larger ship that's only doing scenic cruising, your days will be filled with lectures, wildlife watching, and landscape viewing. "On an Antarctic expedition with Holland America Line, travelers not only cross the Drake Passage but sail through the bays and islands of the Palmer Archipelago," says Ryan Baird, manager of destination communications on Holland America Line. "Along the way, the ship's naturalists will point out an abundance of wildlife: terns, petrels, and gulls found on the coast and small islets like Dallmann Bay; the largest colony of gentoo penguins in the world while passing the dark, rocky Cuverville Island; and leopard and elephant seals swimming near country-sized glaciers." You can also enjoy other Antarctica-themed programming. "Beyond on-board experiential education, we’ll mix in some fun and games, like snowball fights, Antarctica-themed movies, and Antarctica trivia," says Baird.

Antarctica is a sensitive environment, and it's reasonable to be concerned about your environmental impact on the destination as a visitor. To minimize their effects on Antarctica, visitors must adhere to strict biosecurity protocols ranging from using biocide to kill any organisms on their boots to avoiding bringing food and drink on land.

"When traveling, I am always of the mindset of our mission — you should leave a place better than how you found it, whether that is being applied to a hotel, a friend’s house, or an entire continent," says Byus. "We want guests to be thoughtful visitors, along with enjoying a spirit of adventure and exploration. Just as importantly, our captains and expedition leaders have significant training in how to conduct our voyages with the greatest care towards sustainability and respect for the ecosystems we visit."

As for ships, they're improving over time. "Since my early voyages to Antarctica more than two decades ago, the industry has made significant improvements to the expedition ships sailing to the region with notable advancements in environmentally considerate ship design," says Lawton. These days, ships use dynamic positioning rather than anchors to stay in place, reducing the impact on the seafloor; special treatment systems to prevent contaminating Antarctica with biological organisms; and quieter technology to reduce noise pollution.

Furthermore, cruises to Antarctica provide scientists the opportunity to conduct research in the region — many operators host researchers from around the world on their sailings, often for free. "It is important when visiting remote places that we not only avoid doing harm, but we are also looking to do good through scientific research," says Lawton. Viking, for instance, partners with the Scott Polar Research Institute at Cambridge University, The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), among other nonprofits. On my sailing with Lindblad, we hosted renowned "penguinologist" Dr. Tom Hart — "hitchhiking" on expedition ships, he told me, is a far more affordable way to travel to his penguin colony observation sites than chartering his own vessel.

Go with the flow.

"Flexibility is the key to unlocking the magic of Antarctica for first-time visitors. Weather conditions can shift rapidly and impact plans, and the appearance of wildlife can be a welcome opportunity that derails an existing plan," says Brokvist. "So it’s imperative to embrace the unpredictable nature of the White Continent, stay flexible, and savor the unique adventure that each moment brings."

Embrace the Drake.

While I'm fortunate that seasickness doesn't affect me very strongly, I thoroughly enjoyed sailing the Drake Passage — it's what introduced me to birding, since there's not much else to see out there! "In my experience, it does vary in degrees of smooth and rough waters, but no matter which you experience, traveling the Drake Passage is part of the journey and a memorable passage," says Lawton. I also find that crossing the Drake builds anticipation on the inbound journey and helps you decompress on the return.

Know your limits.

A trip to Antarctica can be exhausting. Though it's hard to say no to any activities, you do need to listen to your body. If you need a break, it's okay to pass on a landing or Zodiac cruise — you don't want to have any accidents because you pushed yourself too hard.

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