What helps with seasickness on a yacht?

Stephanie C.

Seasickness can affect even experienced sailors and quickly turn a relaxing sailing trip into an unpleasant experience. It occurs when the eyes and the vestibular system send conflicting information about the boat’s movement to the brain. The first signs include frequent yawning, tiredness, paleness, cold sweats, increased salivation and a queasy feeling in the stomach. Anyone who notices these warning signs should take immediate action, as symptoms that have progressed are more difficult to alleviate.

The best immediate actions to take on deck

As soon as the first signs of seasickness appear, heading straight out on deck usually helps. Find a safe spot in the fresh air and focus your gaze on the horizon or a distant coastline. This helps your eyes and sense of balance to better interpret the yacht’s movements. The movements are often felt particularly strongly at the bow, which is why a spot closer to the centre of the yacht is usually more comfortable. You should also inform the skipper as soon as possible so that they can keep an eye on the situation and adjust the course or speed if necessary. Keep your mobile phone, book and navigation app in your bag for the time being, as staring at nearby objects can make the nausea worse. Keep your head as still as possible, rest it against something and breathe slowly and evenly. It often helps simply to consciously relax and go with the boat’s motion rather than fighting against it.

Fresh air, light meals and plenty of fluids

Heat, stuffy air and strong smells can make the symptoms worse. You should therefore stay in a well-ventilated area wherever possible and avoid diesel fumes, cigarette smoke, strong perfume and the smell of heavy food. When it comes to food, the same rule applies: small, light portions are better than a heavy meal. Bread, crackers, a banana or rice are usually easier to digest than greasy or strongly spiced dishes. Take small sips of water or tea regularly and, if possible, avoid alcohol before and during the trip.

Plan your medication well in advance

Medicines for seasickness are generally most effective when taken or applied well in advance of setting sail. However, many preparations can cause drowsiness, trigger dizziness or impair your reaction times. You should check with a doctor or at a pharmacy in advance which remedies are suitable, particularly for children, during pregnancy, in cases of chronic illness or if you are regularly taking other medication. It is also a good idea to try out a particular product before you go on holiday. This will allow you to identify any unwanted side effects at an early stage.

Ginger and acupressure bands as a supplement

Ginger tea, ginger sweets or ginger capsules are often recommended for nausea and are found pleasant by some people. However, there is no clear evidence that they are a reliable remedy for seasickness. The situation is similar with acupressure bands. They are generally straightforward to use and can be tried as a complementary measure, but should not be the only preventative measure if you are highly susceptible to seasickness.

Set off on your sailing trip well prepared

A restful night’s sleep before setting sail is often more valuable than any home remedy. Anyone prone to seasickness should also opt for a short leg on the first day and, where possible, set off in sheltered waters. In the event that someone needs to vomit, sturdy bags or a bucket should be kept within easy reach in the cockpit. The person affected should never lean over the railing unsecured, as this can be particularly dangerous in rough seas.

When medical assistance is required

If the person affected cannot keep even small sips of liquid down or is becoming increasingly weak, the skipper should take the situation seriously, head for a harbour or organise medical assistance. Chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, severe headaches, slurred speech or weakness on one side of the body are not typical signs of seasickness and require immediate assistance.

A relaxed cruise

Seasickness cannot always be completely prevented, but good preparation often makes all the difference. If you set off well-rested, have light snacks and plenty of water to hand, take the first signs seriously and keep suitable remedies to hand, you’ll be at a clear advantage. This leaves more time for what the sailing trip is really all about: enjoying the sea, discovering new bays and spending relaxing hours on board.