Seasickness on a cruise in Greece

In this article, discover:

✅ The causes of seasickness

✅ Symptoms to recognize

✅ Practical tips to prevent it

✅ Natural and medical remedies

✅ Our tips for cruises in Greece

Why do we get seasick?

Seasickness is caused by an imbalance between visual information and information from the inner ear (responsible for balance). On a boat, the movement of the waves disrupts this system, triggering nausea, dizziness, or headaches.

Aggravating factors:

• Poor ventilation (fuel odors, stuffy air)
• Stress or anxiety (fear of water, apprehension)
• Heavy meals or alcohol before boarding
• Focusing on a fixed point (book, phone) rather than on the horizon
• Fatigue or lack of sleep

Symptoms of seasickness

Symptoms usually appear 30 minutes to 2 hours after departure and vary from person to person:

• Nausea (sometimes vomiting)
• Paleness, cold sweats
• Vertigo, dizziness
• Headaches
• Intense fatigue

Good to know: Some people are more sensitive than others (children, pregnant women, migraine sufferers). The first few days at sea are often the most difficult, while the body adjusts.

How can you prevent seasickness?

1. Before departure: Physical and mental preparation

✔ Avoid excesses: No alcohol, fatty meals, or excessive coffee the night before. ✔ Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly to avoid dehydration. ✔ Sleep well: Restful sleep increases resistance to seasickness.

2. On board: Tips for staying stable

👉 Fix your gaze on the horizon: Look into the distance to rebalance your inner ear. 👉 Avoid screens: Reading or looking at your phone makes symptoms worse. 👉 Stay outdoors: Fresh air and sea breezes help reduce nausea. 👉 Eat light: Choose dry foods (cookies, bread) and carbonated drinks (sparkling water, soda). 👉 Avoid strong smells: Stay away from kitchens or fuel areas.

3. Natural solutions and remedies

• Ginger: In capsules, tea, or candy, it reduces nausea.
• Essential oils: Peppermint or lemon (to inhale or massage onto the temples).
• Acupressure bracelets: They stimulate the P6 point (wrist) to relieve nausea.
• Deep breathing: Breathe in slowly through your nose and breathe out through your mouth to relax.

4. Medications (to be taken before departure)

If you are very sensitive, consult a doctor or pharmacist for:

• Antihistamines (Nautamine, Mercalm): Effective but may cause drowsiness.
• Transdermal patches (Scopolamine): Apply behind the ear 6 hours before departure.
• Homeopathic medicines (Cocculine, Tabacum): A gentle alternative for some.

⚠️ Warning: Test medications before traveling to avoid adverse effects.

Our cruises in Greece: boats designed for your comfort

We do everything we can to ensure that your cruise is enjoyable and stress-free:

Stable boats: Our vessels are designed to limit the effects of swell.

Light, balanced meals: Menus designed to prevent nausea.

Spacious areas: Spacious decks to enjoy the sea air.

Prevention kit: Available on board (ginger, bracelets, medicines for sale).

What should you do if seasickness persists?

If you still experience symptoms:

1. Lie down; a nap is the best remedy.
2. Close your eyes to reduce visual stimuli.
3. Drink water in small sips.
4. Ask your skipper for help; he will be able to advise you.

Tip: Symptoms usually disappear 1 to 2 days after boarding, once your body has had time to adjust.