Seasickness on a Cruise: Causes, Prevention Tips, and How to Choose Your Cabin

Excited about your cruise but worried about getting seasick? The good news is that in bays like Ha Long and Lan Ha, the water is usually quite calm thanks to thousands of rocky islands acting as natural barriers, making seasickness far less common than on open-ocean voyages. That said, sensitive individuals may still experience dizziness or nausea. This article helps you understand why seasickness on a cruise happens and how to prepare for a smooth trip.

Why Do You Get Seasick?

Seasickness is a form of motion sickness. When the ship rocks, the inner ear (the organ responsible for balance) detects the motion, but the eyes see a stationary room or phone screen. The brain receives two conflicting signals, resulting in dizziness, sweating, and nausea.

Children, pregnant women, and those who are prone to motion sickness are generally more susceptible. Sleep deprivation, being hungry or overly full, and consuming alcohol can all worsen the condition.

With many islands providing shelter, the water in these bays is typically quite calm. Photo: Velvet / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Preparing Before Your Trip

• Get enough sleep the night before boarding.

• Eat a light meal before departure: don't go on an empty stomach, but avoid overeating or consuming greasy foods.

• Limit alcohol before and during the trip, as it increases the likelihood of feeling sick.

• Choose your timing: monitor weather forecasts and avoid days with strong winds. Autumn (October–November) is generally when the sea is calmest and the weather is most pleasant.

• Motion sickness medication: if you are prone to motion sickness, ask a pharmacist or doctor for a suitable option. Medication must be taken before boarding according to the instructions, as it is poorly absorbed once nausea has set in. Children, pregnant women, and those taking other medications should consult a doctor first.

How to Choose a Cabin and Seat

On a ship, the middle of the hull and lower decks experience the least motion. The bow tends to rock more. If you are prone to seasickness, you should:

• Choose a cabin located roughly in the middle of the ship, on a lower deck if possible.

• When sitting on the outer deck, choose a spot near the center of the ship and keep your gaze on the horizon.

• Prioritize larger vessels and itineraries within sheltered bays over trips to open waters.

Gazing at the horizon is a simple way to help reduce dizziness. Photo: shankar s. / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0.

Tips for When You're Onboard

• Look into the distance: fix your gaze on the horizon or distant rocky peaks.

• Avoid reading or looking at your phone for extended periods while the ship is moving.

• Get some fresh air: being in the open air is more comfortable than staying in an enclosed cabin.

• Breathe slowly and steadily and keep your head as still as possible.

• Sip water in small amounts and have a light snack such as plain crackers if you feel queasy.

What to Do If You're Already Seasick

Move to an open area, sit or lie down in the middle section of the ship, close your eyes, and breathe slowly. Sip water to avoid dehydration. Don't hesitate to inform the crew — they are usually experienced in helping guests who feel unwell. Most cases improve once the ship anchors or after you return to shore.

If you experience heavy vomiting, signs of dehydration, or prolonged dizziness after reaching land, seek medical attention.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. For further reference, see the CDC (United States) guidelines on motion sickness.

Photo Credits

Featured image: "Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, Sunset in Ha Long Bay" – Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0. Photos within the article are credited directly beneath each image.