We all want to enjoy our much anticipated cycling cruise, and the last thing we want to do is have motion sickness when we could be enjoying our vacation!
Here is our guide on how to help you feel your best while cruising.
Part 1 – Knowledge
River or Ocean?
If you’re signing up for a river cruise, there is absolutely no need for seasickness to be a concern. Most of the ships move slower than your bicycle, and there are no waves to speak of. To date, we haven’t had any participants get seasick on a river cruise.
Weather
Fortunately for you, Santana Adventures schedules events with weather in mind. We hand select dates that correspond with the best weather for each particular destination. While we can’t control the weather, choosing dates with the best weather averages is inherent to cycling.
Selecting the right cruise ship
Our favorite cruise ships to charter feature large open spaces, lots of windows or balconies, air conditioning, and spacious sun decks. Most of the ships we charter feature advanced stabilization and capabilities that go far beyond the types of waters we would charter the ship in.
Part 2 – Plan for Success
Reservation Notes
When placing your reservation, please let us know that you have a seasickness concern. We will try our best to place you in an area within your room category that’s less susceptible to movement. When selecting a room category for your reservation, try not to select a category labeled “Bow” or “Aft” in the title.
Part 3 – Before Your Cruise
Prescription Patches
Very effective, but can cause drowsiness. If you’re going the patch route, you’ll need to obtain a prescription from your doctor. Keep in mind, the patch takes time to take effect — you’ll need to begin before the cruise, and you’ll need to leave it on during the day. Note: This is not medical advice, please speak with a doctor if you think this is right for you.
Oral Medications
Many oral medications can be purchased “over the counter.” Some people do better with Bonine, some better with Dramamine. Although not a prescription, we recommend that you speak with your doctor to see if this is a good idea for you.
Electronic Bracelets
Non drowsy, yet still surprisingly effective. Companies like EmeTerm sell electronic bracelets that look like a watch or a fitness band.
They offer several models: Basic / Mid-Grade / Top of the Line.
Pressure-Point Bracelets
Effective for some, but not for all. If you have forgone the 3 ideas above, these are inexpensive and a good idea to have in your carry-on bag for turbulence or an unexpected patch of rough seas.
Part 4 – During the Cruise
Stay Hydrated
Probably a no brainer on a cycling vacation — Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
Be Proactive
If you decided to acquire one of the motion-sickness preventatives in Step 3, be sure to use it BEFORE you get motion sickness. This means that you should take a look at the ship’s schedule each day, and begin utilizing your preventative before the ship begins to move. It’s far easier to prevent motion sickness from happening than it is to reverse the course once it has begun.
What you eat and drink matters
Despite how fun they can be, try to stay away from the greasier foods. Green apples, candied ginger, ginger tea, and sparkling water are all known to be helpful.
Alcohol
If you’re using a medicated prescription patch or oral medication, consuming alcohol can cause adverse side effects. Additionally, alcohol does deplete your body of water, which can lead to more intense motion sickness if you are prone to it, so be sure to drink plenty of water.
Please Note: We are not doctors and this is not medical advice.
