Boat trips have always been fun, especially if you are with your loved ones and friends. The adventure waiting for you in the sea is just immeasurable. However, there is one inevitable thing when riding a boat – SEASICKNESS. Yes, it is unavoidable, and it can happen to anyone – even those with sea legs. Whether you are a first-timer or a frequent sailor, you should remember some effective ways to avoid getting seasick.
Why Do People Get Seasick?
This question is common and needs an answer. Seasickness happens when the information sent to the brain from the senses does not match – your ears sense movements, but your eyes don’t register it. This miscommunication disrupts one’s equilibrium by sending unmatched signals to the brain. This disturbed balance in your inner ear gives you the feeling of dizziness and nausea. Frequently, it causes sweating and vomiting as well.
Technically, you are not sick. It’s just that your balance is disturbed. If you experience motion sickness while inside a car, plane, or even on an amusement ride, there are chances that you will also experience seasickness.
Are There Ways To Avoid It?
While experts say this can happen to anyone, some ways could help you avoid these mixed signals. Try your best to avoid the stimuli and learn effective ways how to avoid getting seasick on a boat.
1. Rest Well the Night Before the Ride
Nothing beats a good night’s sleep before a boat ride. Having your body feel fully recharged makes all the difference. This technique is the simplest yet most effective way.
2. Do Not Read a Book on Board
Reading a book will add to the struggles with mixed signals between what you see and what you feel, and it won’t do any good. If you want a distraction, try an audiobook instead.
3. Sit Where There is Not Much Movement
So, where is the best place to sit on a boat for seasickness? Right in the middle! The side-to-side and bobbing motions of the boat are not as noticeable when seated in the middle. As people say, knowing how not to get seasick means knowing where to sit on a boat strategically.
4. Be Mindful of What You Eat
Never go with an empty stomach, but, at the same time, do not over-fill it. Just eat a light meal. Avoid acidic and greasy meals on or before the ride, and avoid alcohol.
5. Keep Yourself Hydrated
As cliché as it may sound, drink lots of water before and during the trip. Keeping yourself hydrated helps tremendously. Again, avoid acidic beverages and alcohol.
6. Avoid Strong Smells
Heavy perfumes or any odor can trigger seasickness. If you smell any of it, move to the other side of the boat.
7. Medications
There are several over-the-counter medications available on the market. There are times that it would be better if you take the medication before the symptoms start. However, it is best to check with your doctor before taking them as medications cause side effects and react with other medicines.
8. Wear Sea Bands or Acupressure Bracelets
These are bracelets with a plastic stud inside that puts pressure on a specific pressure point that relieves symptoms of nausea and vomiting. While science has yet to prove this, why not give it a try? These are relatively easy to find in your local drugstores.
However, what if you’ve already started to feel it? How do you get rid of seasickness?
- Stay calm and find fresh air. Fresh air helps clear your head and reduce nausea.
- Look at the horizon. While your body is feeling confused, looking at the horizon gives your brain a point of reference that enables it to sense motion. Doing this helps your body keep its needed equilibrium.
- Get some ginger. Ginger is a natural remedy with no side effects. Consuming ginger and products derived from it helps a lot in fighting seasickness. Do you know that even medicines have ginger? It works wonders!
Indeed, you can never go wrong when you use these simple tips to avoid getting seasick. It not only enables you to enjoy the whole boat ride, but it keeps you feeling safe and healthy.
Nevertheless, if you still feel a little nervous about becoming seasick, try to check our services at Island Marine Rentals. We offer the best boat rental service in Madeira Beach, FL, ensuring you a fun, hassle-free ride! Visit our website and learn how we can make your trip a memorable one.
