Seasickness

Causes of Seasickness

If there’s one thing we’re not all equal about, it’s seasickness! Some people will never experience it, others will suffer from it occasionally, and the unluckiest will have to deal with it most of the time—even if they’re seasoned sailors.

Beyond this "natural" inequality, the type of vessel you’re on, the state of the water’s surface, and the time spent away from dry land are all definite factors in seasickness. On rivers, lakes, or calm seas for short crossings, there’s very little risk of getting sick. However, if the trip lasts more than a few dozen minutes at sea, the risks increase.

Depending on the Vessel

In practice, the boat you’re on plays a major role. While cruise ships, cargo vessels, and ferries are equipped with systems to reduce rolling and pitching—helping to minimize the effects of the sea—sailboats and other small boats are inherently less "protected" in this regard. That said, even on large ships, problems can arise, especially in rough weather.

Physiological Factors

In simple terms, seasickness occurs because the body and senses (including vision) must adapt to a new rhythm—the rhythm of the sea—which isn’t natural for most people. Symptoms typically appear on the first day, and it’s only over time that the body adjusts to the ship’s movement. Interestingly, upon returning to land, the body may need to readjust again, leading to what’s commonly called "land sickness."

Like fear of flying, anxiety about going to sea and consuming stimulants (alcohol, tobacco, etc.) can worsen symptoms. In both cases, it’s best to arrive calmly for boarding, having eaten lightly (helpful in case of vomiting) and wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. The same applies throughout the crossing.

Remedies for Seasickness

To limit the effects of seasickness, at the first signs, it’s recommended to go out on deck to the center of the boat (where movement is least noticeable), stay active, and focus on the horizon or the coastline. Conversely, avoid staying confined in your cabin or indoors, reading, being inactive, or staring at the boat’s moving structures or its wake. Sleeping can also be a solution.

As for remedies, while ginger is known to settle the stomach and patches or homeopathy exist, there’s still no miracle cure. That said, one may emerge someday. In any case, be aware of potential side effects, such as drowsiness, from some treatments.