Seasickness: Understanding and Overcoming the Age-Old Challenge

Jessica Jackson
5 days ago
3 min read

Seasickness is one of the oldest and most widespread forms of motion sickness. For as long as humans have taken to the seas, we’ve battled this persistent and unpleasant condition. While often brushed off as a minor inconvenience or a test of toughness, seasickness is a real and measurable physiological response — and it deserves better understanding and conversation.

What Causes Seasickness?

Seasickness occurs when there is a mismatch between what your body feels and what your eyes see. While the inner ear detects motion (like the rolling of a boat), the eyes may see a relatively still environment (like the inside of a cabin). This sensory conflict confuses the brain and can trigger a range of symptoms: nausea, dizziness, cold sweats, vomiting, and fatigue.

It affects people of all ages and experience levels — from first-time cruisers to seasoned sailors — and is estimated to impact up to 90% of people in rough seas [1].

A Historical Struggle

Across centuries and cultures, seasickness has left its mark. Ancient Greek and Roman texts referenced seasickness as a common affliction of ocean travelers. Sailors from the Middle Ages tried remedies ranging from herbs like peppermint and ginger to tightly binding their stomachs.

During World War II, the problem was so significant that Allied forces used an extract from the Australian bush plant Duboisia myoporoides to create one of the first anticholinergic medications for motion sickness — a formulation that later became scopolamine [2].

Even in modern navies, seasickness is still managed with protocol and training. The problem hasn’t disappeared — but our response has evolved.

Stigma and Misconception

Despite its prevalence, seasickness is still seen in some circles as a weakness — something to be embarrassed by or “push through.” This stigma has led many to hide their symptoms, avoid speaking up, or delay using treatments.

But seasickness is not about willpower. It's a biological response, just like allergies or migraines. Acknowledging that you're affected isn't a sign of weakness — it's a sign of self-awareness and strength. And talking about it opens the door to support and solutions.

How We Manage It Today

Thanks to decades of research and practical experience, we now have a wide range of options for preventing and treating seasickness:

1. Medications

Antihistamines (like dimenhydrinate or meclizine) can be taken before or during travel.
Scopolamine patches are worn behind the ear and offer long-lasting relief [3].

2. Behavioral Adjustments

Staying on deck and focusing on the horizon can help your senses align.
Eating light, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol are also important strategies.
Getting fresh air and keeping your head still, especially while lying down, often eases symptoms [4].

3. Natural Remedies

Ginger is backed by multiple studies as a mild but effective option for reducing nausea [5].
Acupressure wristbands, while not effective for everyone, are non-invasive and safe to try.

4. New Technologies

Innovations like the See-LEVEL headset are changing the game by helping the body recalibrate its sense of balance using visual stimulation and movement cues — all without medication or side effects.

The Future of Sea Travel

We’re entering a new era where motion sickness doesn’t have to ruin experiences or limit opportunities. Whether you're a commercial mariner, a ferry passenger, or a yacht enthusiast, there are solutions available that are proactive, not reactive.

And just as important: it's time we normalize the conversation. Seasickness isn’t a character flaw. It’s a common, treatable condition — and by talking about it openly, we can make life at sea better for everyone.