Seasickness is the one worry that stops many people from trying a sailing holiday – but the good news is that it's usually mild, short-lived and very manageable. Most people who feel queasy on the first day have found their sea legs by day two. Here's what causes seasickness, how to prevent it, and what to do if it strikes, so you can enjoy every mile on the water.
What causes seasickness?
Seasickness is a form of motion sickness. It happens when your inner ear senses the boat's movement but your eyes – fixed on the cabin or a book – tell your brain you're still. That mismatch between what you feel and what you see confuses the balance system, and the body responds with the familiar symptoms: yawning, cold sweat, tiredness, nausea. It has nothing to do with being "a bad sailor" – even experienced crews can feel it in a rough sea.
How to prevent seasickness
Prevention is far easier than cure. These simple habits keep the vast majority of people symptom-free:
- Stay on deck in the fresh air – the cockpit is the most stable, best-ventilated place on the boat.
- Look at the horizon. Giving your eyes a fixed, distant reference re-syncs them with your inner ear.
- Take the helm. Steering focuses your senses on the boat's motion and is one of the best natural cures – helmers rarely get sick.
- Avoid screens and reading below deck, especially on the first day.
- Eat lightly but do eat – dry bread, crackers or a banana; never sail on an empty stomach or a heavy, greasy meal.
- Skip alcohol the night before and stay well hydrated.
- Stay warm and rested – cold and tiredness make symptoms worse.
Remedies that help
If you're prone to motion sickness, come prepared. Ginger (tablets, sweets or tea) is a well-known natural remedy. Acupressure wristbands work well for many people and have no side effects. Over-the-counter tablets such as dimenhydrinate are effective – take them before you set off, not once you feel ill, and note that some cause drowsiness. For longer or rougher passages, ask your pharmacist about scopolamine patches. It's worth packing a remedy or two just in case – our sailing packing list covers what else to bring.
What to do if it strikes
If you start to feel unwell, act early: get up on deck, fix your eyes on the horizon, take the helm if you can, and breathe slowly in the fresh air. Sip water and nibble something dry. Lying down low and central in the boat can help too. Above all, don't worry – it passes, and it almost always eases as your body adapts over the first day or two. On our trips the skipper keeps an eye on the crew and chooses sheltered routes when the sea is up, so beginners are in good hands.
Don't let a little queasiness hold you back. Calm cruising grounds like the Ionian or the Croatian islands are perfect for finding your sea legs – browse our sailing trips for beginner-friendly routes.
Frequently asked questions
How long does seasickness last?
For most people just a few hours to a day. The body adapts quickly, and symptoms usually fade by the second day as you find your sea legs.
What is the best natural remedy for seasickness?
Fresh air on deck, eyes on the horizon and taking the helm are the most effective. Ginger and acupressure wristbands help many people without side effects.
Should I still go sailing if I get motion sick?
Yes. With simple prevention and a calm cruising area, the great majority of people sail happily. Choosing sheltered waters for your first trip makes all the difference.
Conclusion
Seasickness is common, harmless and easy to manage: stay on deck, watch the horizon, eat lightly and come prepared. Within a day most people forget they were ever worried. Ready to find your sea legs? Discover our beginner-friendly sailing trips.
