Worried About Seasickness on a Boat Trip? Tips & Advice
- Captain Sara
- Jan 27
- 5 min read
If you’re excited about getting out on the water in the Virgin Islands, but secretly worried about how your stomach might feel, you’re not alone. Seasickness is one of the most common concerns we hear from guests before a boat day, even from people who love the ocean.
The good news? Seasickness is manageable, and often avoidable, especially with a little preparation and the right approach. Let’s talk about what actually works on a boat trip in the US Virgin Islands.
What Causes Seasickness on a Boat Trip?
Seasickness happens when your inner ear senses motion that your eyes don’t match, or the other way around. Boats introduce rolling, pitching, and gentle swells that some bodies need time to adjust to.
And here’s something many people don’t realize, even experienced boaters can get seasick.
When I moved from Idaho (land of no waves) to Hawaii (land of world-class waves), I got seasick for a while. Dramamine and non-drowsy Dramamine both knocked me out. I wasn’t sick, but I also wasn’t conscious. Not exactly ideal.
That experience taught me two important things:
Not all seasickness solutions work the same for everyone
Finding what works for you changes everything
The Best Place to Sit on a Boat If You’re Worried About Motion
Where you sit can make a noticeable difference.
The smoothest spots on a boat are:
Near the center of the boat
Lower and closer to the waterline
Facing forward with a clear view of the horizon
Try to avoid:
Sitting all the way at the front (more bounce)
Staring down at your phone for long periods
Staying inside without fresh air
Keeping your eyes on the horizon helps your brain sync what it sees with what it feels, one of the simplest ways to reduce motion sickness.
Why Private Boat Charters Help With Seasickness
One of the biggest advantages of a private boat charter is flexibility.
We’re constantly reading wind direction, swell, and sea conditions – and adjusting routes to stay in smoother water whenever possible. Some days that means hugging protected shorelines, adjusting timing, or choosing calmer crossings.
This is why guests who worry about motion sickness often feel much more comfortable on a private charter than on a large group boat with a fixed itinerary.
Seasickness Medications: What Actually Works
Many people automatically reach for Dramamine, but for some, the drowsiness can be worse than the seasickness itself.
When I first moved from Idaho to Hawaii, I tried homeopathic remedies that didn’t help, and Dramamine which knocked me out. Then someone suggested Bonine, which uses a different active ingredient. That finally worked for me, and I still rely on it on dive live-aboard trips in rougher conditions, especially when I need to stay alert and process photos on a laptop.
If you’re particularly sensitive to motion, another option to discuss with your doctor is Scopolamine patches, which can provide strong relief for longer trips. Everyone’s body reacts differently, so it’s best to test medications ahead of time to see what works for you.
How to Test Seasickness Medication Before Your Trip
If you have time before your vacation:
Try different motion sickness medications at home
Take one about an hour before bed
Pay attention to how sleepy (or not) you feel
Once you find one that works without knocking you out, pack that one.
If all medications make you drowsy: Take one the night before your boat day. That way you’ll have some in your system to help with seasickness on a boat trip, but still be awake enough to enjoy the day.
Natural Tips That Can Help (and a Few Myths)
Some simple things really do make a difference:
Stay hydrated
Eat a light, non-greasy meal before boarding
Get fresh air
Ginger candies or tea can help mild nausea
Things that usually don’t help much:
Skipping meals entirely
Trying to “tough it out” without saying anything
Staring at your phone to distract yourself
If you start feeling off, let your captain know early. Small adjustments can go a long way.
Why Snorkeling Often Makes You Feel Better
Here’s something many guests don’t expect: once they’re in the water snorkeling, they feel great.
The motion stops, your body resets, and floating in calm water often relieves symptoms quickly. This is one reason we balance cruising time with swim and snorkel stops throughout the day.
Don’t Let Seasickness Stop You From Enjoying Your Boat Day
Seasickness is common, but it doesn’t have to ruin your experience.
With:
The right medication (tested ahead of time)
Thoughtful seating
Flexible routing
Open communication
Most guests end the day saying, “That was way smoother than I expected.”
We’ll always do our very best to keep you in the smoothest water we can find so you can relax, take in the views, and enjoy your time in the Virgin Islands.
Planning a Boat Day in the Virgin Islands?
If seasickness has been holding you back, don’t let it stop you from experiencing the Virgin Islands by water. A thoughtfully planned private boat charter can make all the difference.
If you have questions before your trip – or want help planning a smooth, comfortable day on the water – we’re always happy to help you feel prepared and confident before you step aboard.
Frequently Asked Questions About Seasickness on a Boat Trip
Q: Can anyone get seasick on a boat?
A: Yes! Even experienced boaters can experience motion sickness, but with proper preparation and seating, it’s usually manageable.
Q: What’s the best medication for seasickness on a boat trip?
A: It depends on the person. Some guests do well with Bonine, others with Dramamine, and if you’re particularly sensitive, you can ask your doctor about prescription patches like Scopolamine. Try medications ahead of time to see what works best for you.
Q: Are there natural ways to prevent seasickness?
A: Yes! Staying hydrated, eating a light meal, getting fresh air, and using ginger candies or tea can all help reduce symptoms.
Q: Does a private boat charter help with seasickness?
A: Absolutely. Private charters allow your captain to adjust routes, speed, and timing to stay in calmer waters, making the day much smoother.
Q: What if I still feel seasick during the trip?
A: Let your captain know early, focus on the horizon, get fresh air, and take a break from screens. Small adjustments usually help. And if everything fails, ending the day early is an option on a private charter – but following these tips should help make the day much easier.
📸 All photos courtesy of Sara Richter and Goolishian Underwater Photography 📸
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