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Will I experience seasickness on a cruise?
Seasickness and motion sickness are unlikely but not uncommon. Most cruises tend to sail through the calmer waters of the world but there is always a chance that you could be affected as everyone reacts differently to their surroundings.
Modern cruise ships are fitted with advanced stabilisation systems to help reduce the amount of movement you will feel onboard. Cruise ships are also fitted with weather detection systems to assist the Captain and Crew to detect and avoid the worst conditions where possible.
A smaller cruise ship will however, have a bit more motion than a larger one so you should consider this prior to booking your cruise. It may also be wise to consider cruises which are more port intensive with fewer days at sea and to avoid itineraries where the waters are bound to be rough i.e. Transatlantic crossings or the Caribbean Cruises within the hurricane season.
Motion sickness is a bit of an enigma, but it is thought to be caused mostly by visual disorientation. When you are on a moving object this can compete against your body's own natural desire for balance, leaving you disorientated and feeling unwell.
Passengers who believe they may be prone to motion sickness should consult with their GP before travelling as they may be able to prescribe preventative medication to help with the symptoms. Before travelling you can also purchase motion sickness wrist bands. It is worth noting however that not all of these remedies work for everyone and it may require some experimentation to find the right solution for you.
If you do suffer from seasickness the best place to be would be on a lower deck near the middle of the ship as this is where the motion is felt least. Focusing on the horizon line outside can also help to balance you.
Another option would be to consider choosing a large, modern or relatively new mega-ship – one of perhaps of 100,000 tons or more. These ships will have the best in the business when it comes to stabilization technology providing the smoothest ride possible.
Tips to avoid seasickness
Prior to booking your cruise:
Consider a larger ship to reduce the amount of motion onboard.
Consider one of the newest megaships (100,000 tons or more) for the best stabilisation technology
Choose a cabin on a lower deck with a mid-ship location
Look at more port intensive itineraries with fewer days at sea.
Avoid Transatlantic crossings and areas with known weather conditions i.e. Hurricane season
After you have booked:
Consult your GP – they may be able to prescribe some preventative medication
Invest in a motion sickness wristband
If you suffer from motion sickness whilst onboard:
Focus on the horizon line – this may help to try and balance you.
Consult the onboard medical staff
Our Cruise Experts would be happy to assist you in choosing the best ship itinerary and cabin to try and minimise any upset whilst onboard. Call us FREE today on 0800 197 8050
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