Life on the water can be exhilarating, but for many new crew members, the unwelcome companion known as seasickness can cast a shadow on the experience. Whether you're adjusting to your sea legs as a stewardess, deckhand, engineer, or chef, understanding and managing seasickness is crucial for a smooth transition into the world of maritime work. Here are practical tips and coping mechanisms to help you navigate the challenges of seasickness because, let’s face it, nobody enjoys riding the vomit comet.
1. Stay Hydrated:
Dehydration can exacerbate seasickness symptoms. Ensure you stay well-hydrated by drinking water regularly, and consider beverages with electrolytes to replenish any lost fluids. If you’ve “accidentally” had a rather large night out before setting off on a crossing, you’ll probably learn not to do that in the future if you get sick. However, these things are known to happen in yachting so make sure you have your lucozades or aquarius drinks at the ready for the next day…
2. Choose the Right Foods:
Opt for light, easily digestible meals. Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods that can contribute to nausea. Snacking on ginger-based products or bland crackers can be soothing for the stomach. Ginger nut biscuits are a god send when you’re feeling a bit green around the gills!
3. Fresh Air and Ventilation:
Head to the deck and breathe in fresh air. Stale or confined spaces can intensify seasickness symptoms, so make use of well-ventilated areas to reduce the feeling of nausea. Ok, easier said than done if you’re a steward and you have to clean the cabins on the crossing but try to make sure you take a few breaks to get some air. On the plus side, if you’re already cleaning a toilet at least you don’t have to go far to spew.
4. Focus on the Horizon:
Again, easier said than done if you’re working on the interior but if you can get outside, when seasickness sets in, fix your gaze on the horizon. This helps your brain reconcile conflicting signals from your eyes and inner ear, potentially easing the sensation of motion sickness. Helpful hint: this also works in cars. I am a terrible passenger…
5. Acupressure Wristbands:
If you know you’re going to get sick then consider using acupressure wristbands that target specific pressure points associated with nausea. These bands can be a simple yet effective way to manage seasickness without relying on medications. They do work for many so definitely worth a try.
6. Medications and Remedies:
Over-the-counter seasickness medications, such as Dramamine in the US, or Biodraminas here in Spain, can be effective for some individuals. Make sure you get the ones with caffeine though (Biodraminas CON cafeina) or you’ll be completely useless – they really knock you out!
7. Preventative Measures:
Take seasickness medications proactively before embarking on a journey if you know you’re at risk – if it’s looking rough as guts out there and you’re prone to feeling pukey, then take a Biodraminas. Better safe than passed out and useless. This mantra has served me well over the years as rather embarrassingly, I’m a delicate flower when it comes to seasickness.
8. Rest and Relaxation:
Ensure you are well-rested before setting sail. Lack of sleep can heighten susceptibility to seasickness, so prioritize a good night's rest. Rolling in at 3am with a belly full of sambuca is not the best plan even though it probably seems like a great idea at the time.
9. Stay Engaged and Distracted:
Keep your mind occupied with tasks and responsibilities. Engaging in work or activities can help distract you from seasickness symptoms, so keep busy busy busy. Already cleaned the salon? Clean it again. Already chamoised off the windows? Do it some more.
10. Gradual Adaptation:
Hopefully you’ll find that the more time you spend at sea, the less you’ll suffer from seasickness. You do find your sealegs! So hang in there.
In conclusion, seasickness can be a common challenge for new crew members, but with the right strategies, it can be effectively managed. Experiment with different approaches to find what works best for you. Remember that acclimating to life on the water takes time, and persistence is key. By incorporating these practical tips into your routine, you can navigate the waves with greater ease and focus on the fulfilling experiences that a career at sea has to offer, rather than hanging off the side feeding the fishes.