Sea Sickness on a Yacht: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Outsmart It (Before It Ruins Your Day)

Let’s talk about sea sickness — not because we want to ruin the mood, but because we want to save your day before it even begins.

And yes, we’re going to be very honest with you: Sea sickness is real, it’s common, and it’s extremely unpleasant. But the good news? It’s also totally preventable. You just need to take it seriously before you step on board.

So What Is Sea Sickness Anyway?

Sea sickness, or motion sickness, happens when your body gets confused. Your inner ear says, “Hey, we’re moving!” but your eyes might say, “Nope, we’re just chilling here in this cozy cabin.” This sensory mismatch sends your brain into a mild panic — and that’s when the symptoms start.

We’re talking:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Dizziness or vertigo

• Headaches

• Cold sweats

• Feeling weak or foggy

• A complete loss of appetite (even for those amazing snacks onboard)

  
  

The Honest Truth: Most People Think They Won’t Get Seasick — Until They Do

Here’s what we see all the time:

Guests arrive confident. “Oh no, I’ve never gotten seasick before.”

An hour later: pale face, slumped on the deck, regretting everything.

If you’ve never spent time on the water, or if it’s been a while, please don’t gamble your charter day on your stomach’s confidence. You’re investing in a luxury experience — and nothing feels less luxurious than trying not to puke in front of your friends.

That’s why we always say:

Please, please take Dramamine or any other sea sickness remedy before boarding. It’s a tiny step that can save your entire day.

We do provide sea sickness patches onboard — and yes, they can help — but they don’t work for everyone, and once sea sickness has already started, there’s very little we or the ocean can do. Prevention is key.

Why Some People Get Seasick and Others Don’t

It’s not about being tough. It’s about how your vestibular system handles motion. Some people’s inner ears are more sensitive. Kids are often more prone. And even seasoned sailors have off days.

Triggers include:

• Staying below deck (where you can’t see the motion)

• Reading or scrolling on your phone while the boat’s moving

• Being on an empty stomach — or a too-full, greasy one

• Fog or cloudy weather (less visual orientation)

• Choppy waters or shifting winds

The twist? You can feel perfectly fine one day and queasy the next. Sea sickness isn’t consistent — which makes planning ahead even more important.

What Helps — And What Doesn’t

Here’s your go-to list of tried-and-true (and some delightfully quirky) remedies we recommend and personally use against sea sickness on a yacht:

Before You Board:

• Take medication like Dramamine, Bonine, or Meclizine 30–60 minutes in advance. (Seriously. We’re not just saying this. Take it.)

• Eat a light snack beforehand — crackers, a banana, toast. Avoid heavy, spicy, greasy, or dairy-rich meals.

• Stay hydrated with water or low-acid juices like apple or carrot. Avoid coffee, milk, or alcohol.

• Pack ginger tea, candies, or capsules — it’s a natural nausea-fighter.

• Bring acupressure wristbands if you’re into natural options (they work for some).

While Onboard:

• Stay on deck and in the fresh air. Avoid hiding in the cabin — trust us.

• Sit near the middle of the yacht, where there’s less motion.

• Look at the horizon — this helps your body and brain sync up.

• Chew ice cubes. It sounds weird, but it really helps.

• Sniff peppermint, citrus, or even crushed coffee beans. Our crew swears by these.

• Keep snacking. Having something in your stomach helps, even if it’s just a little chocolate or fruit.

• Avoid alcohol during the trip if you’re feeling at all off. It can make symptoms worse.

And the wild card tips (our crew’s favorites):

• Swim! If you’re feeling seasick and conditions allow, jumping into the ocean can stop symptoms fast.

• Sniff watermelon or orange peels. Fresh, fruity aromas are surprisingly effective.

• Mix two limes with a teaspoon of baking soda. Old-school, local remedy — odd but effective.

• Stand on one foot. No, we’re not kidding. It helps reset your balance system.

• Keep your mindset light. Staying calm and distracted helps your brain regulate.

And Yes, Kids Can Get Seasick Too

Children are actually more likely to feel queasy on the water, because their balance systems are still developing. If you’re bringing little ones, talk to your pediatrician about safe options and bring their favorite snacks and drinks to help keep their tummies happy.

Let’s Wrap This Up (Before You Feel Green)

Sea sickness is uncomfortable, but avoidable. With just a little planning — and one small pill — you can make sure your yacht day stays everything you dreamed it would be: relaxing, luxurious, and completely nausea-free.

So please, we’re saying this with all the love and professionalism in the world:

Don’t “wait and see.” Don’t risk it.

Take that Dramamine. Bring that ginger. Ask us for a patch.

And if you ever feel queasy on board — tell us! Let’s get you some fresh air or even in the water to cut it short.

Because here at Boat and Bay, our motto is: Tailored. Seamless. Effortless. Yacht Charters that Feel Like They Were Made for You.

And that doesn’t include sea sickness.

So take the pill. Pack the peppermint. And let’s keep it smooth sailing from the moment you step aboard.