Feeling Rough? Proven Ways to Take the Edge Off Seasickness

Seasickness is an age-old nemesis for sailors, affecting even the most experienced crews at sea. Drawing on survey data from the ARC transatlantic rally and expert advice, this article explores seasickness causes, symptoms, remedies, and prevention strategies to help sailors and cruisers manage and minimize its effects.

Understanding Seasickness: Why Does It Strike?

Seasickness, also known as motion sickness, arises when your body receives conflicting messages from the senses. As you move on a boat, your inner ear detects motion, but your eyes—if focused within the cabin—signal that you’re stationary. This sensory mismatch disrupts your brain’s normal expectations, triggering the classic symptoms of seasickness.
Seasickness has been documented since Ancient Greece and continues to affect thousands of crew members and travelers today.

How Common Is Seasickness?

• Almost everyone is susceptible: Studies suggest up to 90% of healthy individuals may experience seasickness under the right conditions.
• Survey findings: In the 2015 ARC rally, 26% of 456 respondents reported seasickness during their Atlantic crossing, with varying durations and severities.
• Hidden prevalence: Some sailors may not openly admit their symptoms, under-reporting the true extent of the issue.

What Influences Susceptibility?

• Family history: Genetics play a role, with heritability rates estimated at 57–70%.
• Gender: Women tend to be more vulnerable than men.
• Race: Studies suggest certain populations, such as Chinese, could be more sensitive than Caucasian sailors.
• Other factors: Anxiety, overall fitness, age (children aged 2–12 more often affected), migraines, and hormonal changes increase risk.

Recognizing the Symptoms: How Do You Know It’s Seasickness?

Seasickness symptoms can arise suddenly and escalate quickly. They’re distinctive, but it’s important to rule out other causes such as viral infections or food-borne illness.

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Cold sweats
• Pallor (pale skin)
• Dizziness and vertigo
• Excess saliva
• Headaches
• Drowsiness or apathy
• Increased sensitivity to smells
• Hyperventilation

Symptoms usually subside once you leave the vessel; if not, other illnesses may be responsible.

How Long Does Seasickness Last?

Encouragingly, most sailors experience symptoms for just a day or two, while a minority suffer longer bouts. In total, 60% of those affected could still participate in on-board activities despite feeling unwell.

Impact of Seasickness: Beyond the Symptoms

Seasickness doesn’t just make you feel terrible—it can also affect performance, relationships, and safety on board. Studies with oceanographers and sailors reveal:

• Mood disturbances (50% report mood changes)
• Impaired relationships (23%)
• Increased accident risk (up to 40% report falls or equipment accidents)
• Avoidance behavior (taking to bunks, reluctance to participate in deck routines)

Such effects emphasize the importance of anticipating and mitigating seasickness, especially on long passages or in severe weather.

Prevention & Remedies: What Really Works?

There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but ARC survey participants and expert sailors rely on a mix of medication, practical habits, and natural approaches. Here is a breakdown of strategies, their evidence base, and popularity:

Medication and Medical Remedies

• Antihistamines & Antinaupathics (Stugeron/cinnarizine, Dramamine, meclizine, promethazine): Popular due to proven efficacy, but side effects like drowsiness can impair safety and performance.
• Scopolamine patches: Effective for longer passages; may cause dry mouth or blurred vision.
• Ginger tablets: Widely used for mild symptoms.
• Homeopathic remedies: Some sailors find relief using natural treatments such as peppermint or acupuncture wristbands, though scientific backing is limited.

Practical Prevention Strategies

• Stay on deck as much as possible and focus on the horizon; fresh air is key.
• Eat plain, dry food in small quantities (bread, crackers, ginger biscuits).
• Rest well before departure and avoid alcohol.
• Secure yourself—clip in on deck to prevent accidents while feeling weak or dizzy.
• Stay positive; anxiety and preoccupation increase the risk of seasickness symptoms.

Controversial or Less Effective Approaches

• Wrist acupressure bands: Some sailors swear by them; research is mixed on their effectiveness.
• Avoiding certain foods (fatty or rich meals) may help, though individual responses vary.
• Hydration: Water intake aids recovery, but excessive fluids may worsen nausea for some.

Overall, 78% of ARC respondents who took action rated their chosen remedy as helpful. Importantly, a combination of prevention methods often produces the best results.

ARC 2015 Seasickness Remedies Breakdown

Sailors’ Experiences with Seasickness

Even seasoned professionals can succumb. Notable anecdotes include:

• Admiral Lord Nelson, plagued by seasickness, continued out of duty and passion.
• Rachael Sprot, a professional sailor, recounts crews rapidly taking to their bunks during rough weather, leaving only one on deck.
• Even renowned racers like Chris Nicholson and Tracy Edwards have been ‘green about the gills’ at times.

Personal stories reveal that experience is no shield. The reality is simple: “We all have a wave with our name on it.” Planning ahead is crucial, whether you are a first-timer or circumnavigating veteran.

Seasickness Prevention: Essential Tips for Yacht Crews

• Prepare mentally and physically before departure; avoid discussing seasickness excessively as it may worsen symptoms.
• Choose your berth carefully—midships and low down are most stable.
• Keep sights outside. Staring at cabin walls intensifies symptoms; horizon gazing helps recalibrate the senses.
• Don’t isolate yourself. Seek help, hydrate, and rest; don’t attempt hazardous activities alone if dizzy or weak.
• Clip on. Safety must come first when venturing on deck.
• Eat small, frequent snacks—plain foods help recovery.
• Monitor medicines: Be aware of side effects that could compromise safety.

Long-Term Outlook: Can You Adapt?

Most people show improvement within 48 hours at sea, helped by gradual acclimatization. Maintaining hydration, nutrition, and a positive outlook aids recovery. If symptoms persist beyond a week or impair essential duties, medical intervention and possible evacuation should be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can anyone get seasick or are some people immune?

A: Nearly everyone is susceptible given sufficient exposure, though sensitivity varies by genetics, gender, age, and other health factors.

Q: What is the fastest way to stop seasickness?

A: The most rapid relief is usually achieved by resting in a low and central part of the boat, keeping eyes on the horizon, using proven medications like antihistamines or scopolamine, and hydrating. Improvement is often seen within two days.

Q: Are children and women more prone to seasickness?

A: Studies confirm that children (aged 2–12) and women, especially when pregnant or undergoing hormonal changes, are particularly vulnerable.

Q: Can anxiety make seasickness worse?

A: Yes. Worrying about seasickness or talking about it excessively increases risk. Maintaining a positive attitude helps reduce severity and duration.

Q: If I’m seasick, should I take medication or let it pass?

A: If symptoms are moderate to severe or impair safety, tried-and-tested medications (following dosage guidance) are recommended. For light symptoms, ginger or practical strategies can suffice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking new medications.

Sailing Smarter: Key Takeaways

• Seasickness is common; admit it and plan proactively.
• Combine prevention (horizon gazing, staying on deck, diet) with appropriate remedies for best results.
• Mood and anxiety management are part of the solution.
• Keep safety and hydration at the forefront in all remedies and routines.

By understanding the roots of seasickness, recognizing symptoms early, and applying lessons learned from ARC participants and experts, sailors can take the edge off and focus on the adventure ahead.

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medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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