Seasickness on a Cruise

Unfortunately, some people get seasick on a cruise. The rolling back and forth of the ship (although usually subtle) can cause a form of motion sickness unique to sailing. Children and women are more likely to become seasick while the elderly are less likely to become seasick. So what do you do if it's your first cruise or you already know you get seasick? Have no fear as there are plenty of seasickness remedies that are effective.

Rest assured, the cruise ship will have an ample supply of both over the counter and prescription strength seasickness drugs to make you feel better. The over the counter drugs are usually supplied free of charge depending on the cruise line. These over the counter drugs include Dramamine, Bonine, and even Benadryl. Bonine and Benadryl can cause drowsiness, especially when combined with alcohol.

Prescription strength seasickness remedies can be costly on the cruise as it requires a visit to the ships doctor so you're charged an office visit and the cost of the pills. Better to visit your regular doctor before the cruise if you know you will need prescription strength drugs for your seasickness. Typical prescription drugs for seasickness include Promethazine, ephedrine, and Transderm Scop (a patch applied behind your ear before sailing).

There are also several tips for combating seasickness that don't involve taking drugs. Booking a cabin in the middle of the ship will help as you will experience the least amount of swaying. You can also acclimate yourself to a cruise by hanging out on the deck and looking at the horizon to help maintain your balance. Some people also swear by Sea-Band wristbands, which press against a pressure point on your palm to curb naseau and vomiting. Ginger is also touted as an effective remedy against naseau due to motion sickness.

Will your seasickness disappear the moment you step back on land? Not necessarily, as you can experience "disembarkation sickness" or land sickness that can last a few hours or even a whole day after your cruise. Although I didn't really get seasick during the cruise, I actually noticed myself getting a little land sickness upon returning from a cruise. Its like you are still on the cruise as you feel slightly disoriented and still feel like you are swaying back and forth. For me, it wasn't really noticeable unless I stood in one place. I was fine after a few hours though.