Spring boat tours are in full swing, offering the perfect way to enjoy warmer weather and stunning waterfront views. But for many travellers, seasickness can hold them back from booking that dream excursion.
Seasickness is far more common than most people might think, affecting around a third of people. It brings with it an extreme feeling of nausea that leads to vomiting, headaches, a loss of appetite, and more. Sadly, when it starts, it’s pretty much a given that whatever joy, fun, and excitement were lying ahead will be completely ignored, replaced by an overwhelming desire to put feet back onto dry land.
Fortunately, there are some ‘tried and tested’ things that people can do to minimise its impact. Below, Vukan Simic, a boating expert and founder of BoatBooker, shares insider tips to help passengers enjoy seasick-free adventures:
The 30-30-30 Rule
Professional boat captains swear by this simple timing trick: eat a light snack 30 minutes before boarding, keep your eyes on the horizon for your first 30 minutes on the water, and hang out in the middle of the boat for at least 30 minutes after departure. This easy-to-remember rule helps your body adjust to being on water and keeps queasiness at bay.
Strategic Positioning
The middle of the boat is your best friend! It’s where you’ll feel the least rocking motion. Stay on deck – fresh air and being able to see the horizon help your brain make sense of the movement. First-timers who pick a spot midship almost always have a better experience than those who head straight to the front or back of the boat.
Try Ginger
Skip the drowsy seasickness pills and try nature’s remedy instead. Ginger sweets, tea, or capsules can work just as well without making you sleepy. Many captains keep ginger on hand specifically for passengers who start feeling green around the gills – it’s that effective!
Wrist Press Technique
When you feel the first hint of queasiness, try pressing firmly on the inside of your wrist, about three finger-widths up from where your hand starts. This pressure point has been used for centuries to fight nausea, and many passengers find immediate relief.
The Controlled Breathing Method
If you start feeling off, try this breathing pattern: slowly breathe in while counting to four, then breathe out for a count of seven. This calming technique helps reset your nervous system when those first uncomfortable feelings appear. It’s simple but surprisingly effective at stopping seasickness before it takes hold.
Vukan concludes, “Spring boat tours offer some of the year’s most beautiful experiences, but anyone can get seasick – even experienced sailors sometimes feel queasy in these conditions. The good news is that these simple tricks work, especially if you use them before you start feeling bad. Being prepared makes all the difference between a miserable ride and an amazing spring day on the water.
The season offers ideal conditions with its moderate temperatures and typically calmer morning waters. If you’re planning a springtime trip, it’s best to check your weather app for wave heights before your trip and try to choose a calmer day.
These little-known captain tricks have helped countless people enjoy beautiful coastal views, spot marine wildlife, and create lasting memories – all without feeling sick.”
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