catamaran sea sickness

Do Catamarans Make You Seasick? (7 Tips That Works!)

Motion sickness, or seasickness, can be incredibly uncomfortable and can ruin a sailing trip. People who get motion sickness might avoid travel or boating trips to avoid this feeling.

There are certain steps you can use to prevent or reduce seasickness or motion sickness.

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Another way to avoid motion sickness is to ride vehicles that are smoother. A smoother ride has been known to be kinder to people who get motion sickness.

Do Catamarans Make You Seasick?

Catamarans are known to have a smoother ride than similar mono-hull vessels, making it easier to sail without motion sickness. Catamarans also offer better ventilation and vision in the living quarters. In a catamaran, the living quarters are situated on the deck.

This allows for better vision while moving and the possibility to open windows.

In this article, we will explain sea sickness in regards to catamarans as well as general knowledge on motion sickness and what you can do to prevent or reduce it:

Catamarans and Seasickness:

People susceptible to motion sickness are less likely to get sick on catamarans than other mono-hull ships.

Catamarans cause less chance of motion sickness because they allow for gentler motion and be more predictable.

Catamarans can also prevent seasickness while in the hull.

In a mono-hull vessel, you are more likely to have a strong rolling effect with the waves. While below deck, where you cannot see the waves or the boat’s motion, the rolling of the waves, or other movements, can be more likely to get you seasick.

Catamarans are also less likely to make you sick due to the boat’s overall structure and design.

Multi-Hull vs. Mono-Hull:

Catamarans are a multi-hull vessel with much of their living quarters based on the deck on top.

They often have separate twin engines placed away from the living quarters. This can help prevent seasickness by keeping the noise and fumes away from where you are staying.

In contrast, mono-hull vessels have their living quarters close to the engine, increasing the chance of sickness.

Catamarans also offer better ventilation and vision in the living quarters. In a mono-hull vessel, the living quarters are set into the hull, while in a catamaran, they are situated on the deck.

Because of the decreased chance of seasickness, catamarans are often used for commercial or tourist vehicles.

In regards to tourism and commercial sailing, it is better to take people out on steadier vessels.

Ferries also utilize catamarans. Using a catamaran for ferries is the best way to reduce sickness among passengers.

7 Ways to Reduce or Prevent Seasickness On Catamarans:

If you suffer from seasickness, there are some things you can do to reduce the sickness or even prevent it altogether.

The first thing you need to know is what type of vehicle you are going to be on. This will help you plan for the journey and the degree of sickness you can experience.

There are basic things you can do to lessen the feelings of seasickness on catamarans.

These include:

• Eating lighter meals and avoiding large or fatty meals can help reduce seasickness.
• This works because nausea can be worsened by heavy food sitting in your stomach.
• Much in the same way as the above tip, alcohol can cause nausea on its own, which can exacerbate nausea felt from motion sickness.
• While on a boat, you will want to sit in a smoother area.
• Smoother rides can reduce motion sickness. On a ship, the closer you sit to the middle, the smoother the ride.
• Keeping your eyes fixed forward on a boat can also help. If you start to feel sick, the best thing you can do is to stay in the open and focus on the horizon ahead of you.
• If being on the front of a vessel is not an option, you will want to find any fixed point.
• It can also help if you steer the ship if possible. Most people who get motion sickness in vehicles find that driving or steering provides a distraction and requires focus in front of you that can help you fixate.
• This is effective both in sailing or driving a car. I myself get motion sickness and find that driving helps.
• For some people, telling yourself that you will not get sick can work.
• This is helpful when your motion sickness stems from anxiety about traveling and not inner ear complications.
• Much in the same way you drink ginger ale when you are sick, this can help the nausea of motion sickness and travel.

If Nothing Else Works:

Some people have found luck with pressure point bracelets, but these do not work for everyone, and there is not a lot of evidence of effectiveness.

If none of these work for you, there are medications that you can take to help with motion sickness.

These can include medications to reduce nausea, or if needed, put you to sleep in certain travel situations.

Over the counter medications can be used to reduce the feelings of sickness.

Dramamine or Meclizine can be taken a half-hour to an hour before you think you might be sick. These can cause drowsiness, so you will want to make sure you do not take them to be alert or operate machinery.

If over the counter medication does not work, you can speak with a doctor to get prescription medication for this problem. They will be able to help you pinpoint your problem and properly treat it.

An instance of seasickness or motion sickness does not require a doctor’s visit unless you think you are also dehydrated. Dehydration is a dangerous condition that requires medical attention, and the symptoms can be similar to motion sickness.

Overall, seasickness is a highly uncomfortable affliction that can make travel or recreational boating uncomfortable. Seasickness should not prevent you from traveling and otherwise experiencing these things.

With these tips and tricks, or medication if needed, you should experience the travel and recreational experiences provided on a boat.

If you manage your seasickness, you can do anything from ferrying to islands, snorkeling, sightseeing, and other exciting activities.

General Info On Seasickness

Motion sickness, which can sometimes be called seasickness while on the water, is caused when the motion sensed in your inner ear doesn’t match up with the motion you are seeing or the motion that you are not able to see.

These mixed signals between your ears and your eyes can cause motion sickness. The severity of motion sickness depends on the person and the vehicle.

Motion sickness is more common in children and pregnant women, but anyone can get it.

People who suffer from motion sickness can get this while traveling in all vehicles, including cars, trains, planes, boats, or even on amusement rides or roller coasters.

If you suffer from motion sickness, you can feel uneasy, sweaty, or dizzy. Motion sickness also causes nausea and vomiting.

Other symptoms include pale skin, increased saliva, and other symptoms that come with nausea.

There can be other contributing factors to seasickness that is not purely based on a vehicle’s motion. These include anxiety, poor ventilation, inability to see out windows.

Luckily, catamarans usually have great ventilation compared to larger boats with closed cabins.

You are more likely to get motion sickness if you are nervous or you feel anxiety about the method of travel, such as on boats or in planes.

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Do Catamarans Cause Sea Sickness? – The Truth About Catamaran Travel!

If you’re planning a sailing trip on a catamaran, you might be wondering, “Do catamarans cause seasickness?” And if you’re someone who’s prone to motion sickness, this is a valid concern. 

After all, seasickness can be incredibly uncomfortable and ruin your fun excursion on the water. Well, fear not because today I’ll dive into the intriguing world of catamarans and their impact on seasickness. 

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a curious adventurer, understanding the relationship between catamarans and seasickness is key to ensuring your nautical journeys are as smooth as possible.  

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Key Takeaways

• Catamarans are designed with two parallel hulls, providing stability and a smoother ride.
• The unique anatomy of catamarans can help reduce seasickness compared to monohull boats.
• Preventing seasickness aboard a catamaran can also rely on factors such as sailing conditions and personal experience.

Understanding Catamarans Design

When you think of a catamaran, you might imagine a sleek, fast vessel with two hulls gracefully cutting through the water. But what exactly goes into the design of these multi-hull vessels, and what benefits do they provide? Let’s see the anatomy of catamarans to help you understand their unique characteristics and how they could impact seasickness.

To start with, as mentioned, a catamaran is a multi-hull vessel featuring two parallel hulls. These twin hulls provide excellent stability and buoyancy, allowing the catamaran to have a shallower draft than traditional monohull vessels.

As a result, they are able to access shallow water areas, which can be a big advantage in certain situations.

The deck of a catamaran connects the two hulls, providing a spacious, open area for lounging, entertaining, and enjoying the water. 

Many catamarans also feature a covered cockpit area, which can serve as a comfortable space for navigation and steering, protected from sun and rain.

Speaking of steering, catamarans are typically equipped with twin engines – one in each hull. This dual-engine setup not only offers more horsepower for speed and maneuverability but also adds redundancy, making it less likely that you’ll get stuck due to an engine failure.

Now, let’s talk about the unique sensation of being on a catamaran. The design of these vessels leads to a more stable, level ride compared to monohulls. 

While they still move with the waves, their wide beam helps them resist heeling (leaning to one side), and their twin hulls create a different motion pattern than a single-hull vessel. 

This can be a contributing factor in how seasickness affects individuals on board.

Understanding Sea Sickness

Sea sickness, also known as motion sickness, is a common issue experienced by many travelers. It’s especially common among those who spend time on boats, such as a catamaran.

You might be wondering why this happens and what causes these uncomfortable symptoms. Let’s dive into the underlying causes and science behind sea sickness.

Seasickness is a form of motion sickness characterized by feelings of nausea, vomiting, dizziness, pale skin, cold sweat, and even anxiety. It occurs when your body’s sensory systems receive conflicting messages about motion. 

Your inner ear, eyes, and central nervous system all play a role in maintaining balance and transmitting information about your body’s position in space.

When you’re on an underway boat, the constant motion can create a mismatch between what your eyes see and what your inner ear senses. 

For example, your eyes may perceive a stable horizon, while your inner ear detects the up-and-down or side-to-side motion of the boat. This discrepancy can confuse your brain and lead to the symptoms of seasickness.

Keep in mind that not everyone experiences seasickness to the same degree. Some people have a higher tolerance to motion, while others are more susceptible to its effects. 

This can depend on factors such as your personal experiences, genetics, or even the conditions on the boat or ocean at the time.

While sea sickness can be pretty unpleasant and, in some cases, debilitating, there are ways to manage or even prevent it. See how to avoid seasickness in the chapter below.

Monohulls Vs. Catamarans – Which Has Less Impact On Seasickness?

When it comes to sailing, you might wonder whether monohulls or catamarans are more likely to cause seasickness. So, let’s compare the two types of boats and discuss their impact on motion sickness.

Monohulls typically have a more pronounced roll behavior, which means they tend to tilt from side to side more than catamarans. This higher degree of roll can contribute to a higher likelihood of seasickness in people who are prone to it. 

Monohulls also experience more yaw, side-to-side movement, and pitch, which is a boat’s movement up and down in the water. These motions can make the ride less comfortable for some passengers.

On the other hand, catamarans generally provide a more stable ride due to their two-hull design. This design reduces rolling, yawing, and pitching compared to monohulls. As a result, passengers on catamarans are less likely to experience seasickness.

A crucial factor impacting seasickness is the vertical acceleration experienced on a boat. Catamarans tend to have lower vertical acceleration levels, making their movements gentler and more predictable. This reduced acceleration can also help prevent motion sickness.

In summary, while both monohulls and catamarans can cause seasickness in some passengers, catamarans are generally considered the more stable option. With their reduced roll, yaw, and pitch and gentler vertical acceleration, catamarans might be the better choice if prone to motion sickness. 

How Catamarans Influence Seasickness

When planning your next sailing adventure, you might be wondering if catamarans cause seasickness. The good news is that, in general, catamarans offer a more comfortable and smoother ride compared to monohull boats. 

This is due to their wider beam and reduced heeling, which provide greater stability and predictability. So, let’s dive a little deeper into how catamarans can influence seasickness and make your experience on the water more enjoyable.

The design of catamarans plays a significant role in providing a smoother ride. With their twin hulls and wide beam, they tend to have less rolling motion in the water. This can help minimize the occurrences of seasickness for you and your passengers.

In fact, a survey conducted among sailors has shown that people who are susceptible to motion sickness are generally less likely to get sick on catamarans than on monohull ships.

Another important aspect of catamarans that contributes to passenger comfort is their predictability. The gentler and more stable motion of catamarans can help you anticipate the boat’s movement, allowing you to better adapt and avoid feeling nauseous.

However, it’s essential to remember that seasickness varies from person to person, and while a catamaran may provide a smoother ride for some, others may still experience discomfort.

The Impact of Sailing Conditions on Seasickness

Sailing conditions can have a significant impact on how you feel about the water. Weather, waves, and even the type of vessel you’re on can contribute to the onset of sea sickness. 

When you embark on a sailing trip, the waves and motion of the water play a crucial role in your overall experience. 

Rough seas can exacerbate feelings of drowsiness and nausea, which are common symptoms of sea sickness. 

Sailing in calm waters, on the other hand, can make a world of difference in keeping those unpleasant sensations at bay.

One thing that sets catamarans apart from other vessels is their stability. 

Thanks to their twin-hull design, catamarans experience less yawing motion than traditional monohull boats, which can ultimately reduce the chances of sea sickness. 

However, this doesn’t mean that they are immune to it. It’s still possible to feel sick, especially if you’re sensitive to motion.

Catamarans offer a more stable experience, which often helps reduce the risk of sea sickness. However, you should always be prepared and take some seasickness prevention before you get on board.

6 Useful Tips To Prevent Sea Sickness

If you are worried about sea sickness aboard a catamaran, don’t worry. There are various ways to avoid or reduce the risk of experiencing this uncomfortable feeling. Here are some helpful tips for preventing seasickness while enjoying your time on a catamaran.

1 Firstly, pay attention to what you eat and drink before and during the trip. Don’t drink alcohol, as it can worsen the effects of sea sickness. Instead, stay hydrated by drinking enough water. 

2. Opt for foods that are easy to digest, avoiding heavy, greasy, or spicy food.

3 Taking medications such as Dramamine, antihistamines, Stugeron, Meclizine, and Dimenhydrinate can also be helpful. Don’t forget to speak to your doctor before taking any medicines, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

4 One of the most effective ways to avoid seasickness is by getting plenty of fresh air. Catamarans often offer better ventilation than monohulls, making them a more comfortable option. Sit in a spot where you can breathe fresh air, as this will help reduce any feelings of nausea.

5. Also, ensure you get enough sleep before embarking on your catamaran adventure. Being well-rested can help minimize the chances of experiencing seasickness. If possible, find a spot on the catamaran where you can rest comfortably, away from any strong odors or fumes.

6 . One popular remedy is ginger tea, known for its anti-nausea properties. Sipping on ginger tea while aboard your catamaran can help soothe your stomach and make your sailing experience more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: how do catamarans compare to monohulls for motion sickness.

Catamarans typically offer a smoother ride than monohulls, which helps reduce the risk of motion sickness. This is due to their twin-hull design providing better stability and reduced rocking motion. However, first-time riders may still experience discomfort if they lack sufficient boating experience.

Q: What measures can be taken to avoid seasickness on a catamaran?

To avoid seasickness, try to keep your eyes on the horizon, as this can help you maintain balance. Fresh air and proper ventilation onboard also play a role in reducing uneasiness. Additionally, avoid heavy meals before setting sail and consider using over-the-counter medication, ginger, or acupressure wristbands to tackle motion sickness effectively.

Q: Is it easier to get seasick on catamarans or other types of boats?

While catamarans offer a more stable and smoother ride than many other types of boats—which helps mitigate seasickness—they might not always prevent it entirely. Seasickness varies from person to person, but generally, the risk is lower on catamarans when compared to monohulls.

Q: Are catamarans stable in rough seas?

Catamarans have a reputation for being stable in rough seas due to their wider beam and twin-hull design. They typically experience less heeling and rolling than monohulls, which can make for a more comfortable experience. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that no boat is entirely immune to adverse weather conditions.

Q: Which part of a catamaran is the best area to minimize motion sickness?

To minimize motion sickness, it’s best to choose a spot near the center of the catamaran, as this area experiences the least amount of motion. As a general rule, the closer you are to the waterline and the center of the boat, the less motion you will feel.

Q: How do hull designs affect seasickness on catamarans?

Hull designs play a significant role in a vessel’s stability and motion. Since catamarans have two hulls, they create a wider and more stable platform than single-hulled boats. This design reduces rocking and rolling motions that often contribute to seasickness, making catamarans generally more comfortable for those prone to motion sickness.

Final Words

In conclusion, catamarans can potentially reduce the risk of seasickness due to their smoother ride compared to monohull boats. However, some people may still experience motion sickness on a catamaran, and there are a variety of factors that can influence how prone someone is to seasickness.

To mitigate seasickness, there are several tips and tricks you can try, such as the ones listed above. Additionally, it can help to gradually acclimate yourself to the motion of the catamaran by spending time onboard before venturing out on longer journeys.

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Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

4 thoughts on “Do Catamarans Cause Sea Sickness? – The Truth About Catamaran Travel!”

I just finished a webinar with a travel supplier that offered cruises for single families on catamarans in the sea waters off the shores of Croatia.  It’s interesting to me about the twin hulls providing stabilization and lessening the effect of the moving waves on seasickness. If the catamaran is larger in size, does that lessen the effect of the sea motion on causing seasickness? Approximately, how large would the catamaran vessel be to take a family of four with just captain and first mate on a cruise just in the bay area off the shore of Croatia? The information you provided here will be invaluable to know and convey to any potential future clients that may be interested in taking these tours. Thanks for your informative article.

To answer your question, yes, the size of the catamaran does play a role in stabilizing the ride, as larger vessels tend to handle waves more smoothly than smaller ones.

For a family of four, along with a captain and a first mate, a mid-sized catamaran ranging from 40 to 50 feet in length should provide a comfortable and stable cruising experience in the bay area off the shore of Croatia. This will be enough spacious to allow you to have an enjoyable journey for everyone on board.

I’m glad you found this information valuable, and I’m sure your potential clients will, too! If you have any more questions or if there’s anything else I can help you with, feel free to ask. 

Thank you for the comment, and I wish you a wonderful day.

I was in the navy but I have never been at sea because of the specific job that I had at the time, but a few of my buddies that actually went to sea told me a lot about sea sickness. How they explained it, it sounds very similar to being carsick, which I have been before. I didn’t know that certain types of boats or ships can cause different levels or types of sea sickness. This post is awesome.

Hello there! 

I’m glad to hear that you found the post awesome! Your buddies were absolutely right – sea sickness can indeed feel a lot like being carsick. It’s fascinating how our bodies react to motion, isn’t it? And you’re spot on – the type of boat or ship can definitely affect how severe seasickness might be. Thanks for sharing your experience, and if you ever have more questions, feel free to reach out.

Thank you for the comment and I wish you a great day!

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• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Seasickness: How to prevent it and how to cope with it

• March 10, 2021

Professional sailors and everyday cruisers alike can suffer from seasickness. How do you you plan for it and how to you minimise the effect when at sea? Rachael Sprot tell us her secrets.

On one of my earliest trips as a professional sailor a wise old skipper gave me some seasickness advice at watch change. “Watch the green ones, they’ll rush for the leeward rail and if they aren’t clipped on there’s a strong chance they’ll go over,” he said. “And what’s more, they won’t care if they do.”

I gulped and looked at my crew. Their faces resembled a Farrow and Ball paint chart: lichen green, skimmed milk white and ash grey. We were en route to Cherbourg from the Solent. By the time we got to the shipping lanes I only had one crew member left on the deck of the 80ft maxi, the rest were in their bunks.

Inglorious and debilitating as it is, the green monster of seasickness strikes indiscriminately.

Ensure seasick crew on deck are clipped on

I know several experienced skippers who resign themselves to a diet of bread and water for the first 48 hours of every offshore passage, while some complete novices who’ve joined our expeditions got off scot-free.

Even round the world sailors like Chris Nicholson and Tracy Edwards are sufferers, whilst Admiral Lord Nelson himself admitted that: “I am ill every time it blows hard and nothing but my enthusiastic love for the profession keeps me one hour at sea.”

The reality is that we all have a wave with our name on it, so we’d better have a decent plan for when the time comes.

Why do people suffer seasickness?

Seasickness is caused by the confusion between different parts of your balance mechanism.

Your inner ear is a network of fluid-filled channels sensitive to gravity and motion, called the vestibular system. Normally the information sent from here to the brain corresponds with the signals coming from the other senses such as vision.

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Rogue waves have long divided sailors and scientists. Some question their existence, other schools of thought suggest that ‘freak’ waves…

On a boat, things stop adding up: according to our eyes, we’re stationary relative to our immediate surroundings, yet the vestibular system is registering constant motion. The result is that our bodies release a deluge of stress hormones resulting in symptoms such as nausea, headaches, dizziness. It’s well known that being on deck with a view of the horizon will often alleviate these.

Avoiding heavy weather is the single biggest thing you can do to prevent seasickness. Photo: Rachael Sprot/Rubicon 3

One neat but unproven theory is that the mixed messages from your body convince the brain that it’s been poisoned. Many toxins affect balance so a logical evolutionary response is to throw up when this system is under attack.

Medication for seasickness

There are many different types of seasickness tablet on the market, all working in slightly different ways.

You may need to try a couple of products before finding one that works well for you. The two most commonly available are cinnarizine (Stugeron) and hyoscine (Kwells). If you can’t take or get on with either then speak to your doctor about the alternatives. In any case, do read the user guidance carefully and, if in doubt, seek medical advice:

Cinnarizine

With the brand name Stugeron, this is an antihistamine that works on the connection between the vestibular system and other senses involved in balance. Like the antihistamines you take for hayfever it can cause mild drowsiness but, in our experience, it is well-tolerated by most people and available over the counter.

Hyoscine hydrobromide/ Scopolamine

Available as tablets (Kwells) and patches (Scopoderm) this works on the part of your brain that controls vomiting. It seems to be slightly quicker acting than cinnarizine making it a better choice if you’re caught out.

Many people swear by the patches, which last for three days and won’t be affected by vomiting. One of heir common side affects is a dry mouth but it is a good reminder to stay hydrated. Like cinnarizine, they are also available over the counter.

Promethazine

Another antihistamine, promethazine is sold as a treatment for motion sickness under the brand name Avomine.

It’s one of the constituents of Night Nurse, so no prizes for guessing that it’ll probably make you drowsy. For this reason people rarely take it for long, but it does seem to be highly effective if you can put up with the drowsiness. One or two doses in the first 24 hours usually do the trick. It’s only sold with a pharmacist’s approval, so you’ll need to fill out a questionnaire to buy it.

Prochlorperazine

Another prescription-only drug, the antiemetic, prochlorperazine is often used to treat nausea from migraines and vertigo.

Brand names include Stemetil and Buccastem. It’s not commonly used for seasickness as drowsiness is one of its main side-effects, but as it’s absorbed through the gums it can be a good option for those who can’t keep any other medication down. It’s worth asking your pharmacist for a packet to have on standby if you know you suffer badly.

How and when to take medicine

How you take your medication is just as important as what you take. As with most things on boats, prevention is better than cure.

With any seasickness medicines the key is to take them sooner rather than later. In some circumstances taking a tablet the night before departure can help by giving your body time to adjust – check the instructions first. Don’t be tempted to mix-and-match medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Seasickness coping strategies

Preventing and managing seasickness is about looking after your body. Try to keep normal routines: eat, drink and go to the loo as you would do at home, put an extra layer on when you need to and get your head down for a rest when you can.

Anxiety, fatigue, and being cold or hungry all quicken the onset of seasickness. If you feel seasickness coming on, take preventative action early: don’t martyr yourself in the galley.

Ginger has long been recognised for its stomach-settling properties and there are now scientific studies to back this up. Carry a packet of fiery crystallised ginger or make a fresh root ginger tea for maximum effect.

There’s less consensus on the effectiveness of acupressure points for motion sickness. The P6 point in the wrists can be activated by wearing special bracelets which may ease mild symptoms. I’m sceptical about their ability to keep the pressure on the correct point during a long sea voyage but it certainly won’t do you any harm.

The biggest risk from seasickness is dehydration. I always carry a tube of sports rehydration tablets and encourage anyone who has thrown up to take one. They dissolve in 500ml of water and aid a swift recovery.

If a member of crew has been vomiting for over 24 hours you should monitor their fluid input and output closely. Make sure they keep drinking, even if it comes back up again shortly afterwards.

Sealable sick-bags are a true source of comfort to a casualty confined to their bunk.

Make sail changes early and be kind to the crew and boat. Photo: Rachael Sprot/Rubicon 3

You may need to decide whether a crew needs some help managing their condition. Reassuring them it will pass and making sure they’ve topped up on tablets is a good first step. Small things can help, like making them a hot drink, or encouraging them to take the helm. I’m no fan of pressurising people to tough it out, though. If someone is starting to lose the battle, sending them to lie down is often the best option.

The single biggest thing you can do as skipper to prevent crew being seasick is avoid rough weather. Next is to give people an opportunity to get their sea legs on short training voyages before heading offshore. Put a reef in, crack off and be kind to your boat and crew. Just because you can beat to windward in 25 knots it doesn’t mean you should.

The lesson from my Cherbourg trip was that we should have thought twice about going in the first place.

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How to Deal With Seasickness While Sailing

By: Zeke Quezada, ASA Cruising Tips , Medical , Safety

Mal de mer is another way to say “seasickness.” It’s a particular kind of motion sickness that afflicts people traveling by water, and it causes dizziness and nausea (a word that actually means “seasickness” in Greek). Mal de mer is brought on by the rocking motion of a boat on the waves — although not everyone is affected by it. In French, mal means “bad” or “sick” and mer means “sea.” – Vocabulary.com

I have a son that would suffer from seasickness on the way to the boat and then on the boat — each and every time we went sailing. He got better. Soon it turned to every other time and then to once in four times and now it rarely happens.  He is 17 and he grew up sailing.  

You might ask, “Why did you keep sailing if it made him sick?”

Imagine a world where you don’t get to experience the feeling of the wind capturing the boat and dictating where you go. What if you never were able to experience the silence that comes from the ocean and the wind and the outdoors?  

The real answer was that our son would get sick and then recover and enjoy the ocean. He loved to sail, it was just not without a price.

Thankfully, he was not alone, and there are ways to avoid or recover. Try these helpful hints and don’t let seasickness keep you from sailing.

What is Seasickness?

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Service (NOAA) define Seasickness as:

 “ Seasickness is a result of a conflict in the inner ear, where the human balance mechanism resides and is caused by a vessel’s erratic motion on the water. ”  National Oceanic and Atmospheric Service

Personally, I define seasickness as a conflict between my stomach and my body. Sure, some biology and chemistry make me feel sick but the issue seems to be some triggering effect that makes my stomach go haywire. It is not always a boat that is rolling around on confused seas.

My worse case of seasickness came on a SCUBA diving boat when the exhaust from the engine seemed to make me quite ill. Another case was while on a boat in the Florida Keys, the steering failed and we were forced to float around adrift for 3 hours.  My last noticeable encounter with seasickness came after a long day on Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands. That one may be the result of a few too many Painkillers at the Soggy Dollar Bar. 

Common Symptoms of Seasickness

• Increase in saliva
• Turning pale or going green
• Hyperventilating

How do you Prevent Seasickness?

• Hydrate – Dehydration can lower your body’s reaction to motion.  Hence, too many alcoholic drinks often lead to dehydration, which will increase your chances of developing motion sickness symptoms.  Wait for the extra cocktail until you get to shore and do not forget to drink water.  Ginger Ale is a great way to help ease your motion sickness symptoms.
• Medication/Herbal – Plenty of sailors avoid seasickness by taking over-the-counter medications. Consider Dramamine or Bonine(Meclizine). Dramamine is an over-the-counter medication that is widely available.  Read the instructions for dosage but it typically requires you to take the medication before you step off the dock. Meclizine is used to treat or prevent nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness. If you prefer not to use medication, Ginger is an effective alternative trusted by many.
• Wear a Patch – Scopolamine is a prescription drug and works to combat the effects on the chemistry of the inner ear and motion sickness. These typically last longer than the pills.
• Fresh Air – Get out of the cabin and get some fresh air.  So often people begin to feel the effects of the moti0n and quickly retire to their bunk. Bad idea, the rolling only gets worse down below and soon you are face to face with the demon that is the green monster of seasickness. 
• Watch the Horizon – Does this work? Plenty of sailors including myself believe so and the soothing feeling of staring into the distance as well as the fixation on a steady point seems to have a positive effect on your stomach. 
• Eat – This is tricky but you want to have something in your belly before the seas pick up. Crackers, pretzels, or nuts seem to do the trick just fine.  We have peanut butter sandwiches on hand to keep just a tiny bit in our stomachs but not enough to ruin dinner.
• Avoid Bifocals/Progressive Lenses – If you can help it, don’t wear bifocals any longer than necessary because they can confuse your equilibrium if you’re looking through them often while moving.

American Sailing partner DAN Boater has some good advice for Seasickness.

I’m Seasick, Now What?

• Ginger – Ginger ale, ginger snaps, or ginger candies all do a great job of helping your body deal with motion sickness. 
• Peppermint Candies – Mint is a remedy for seasickness so carry some peppermint candies with you. They also help with your breath in case you have to make a deposit in the ocean while underway.
• Saltine Cracker – The bland cracker has long been a remedy for me. It dries my mouth out to the point where I am uncomfortable but that lack of saliva helps with nausea.  I combat the dry mouth with ginger ale and soon I am feeling better.
• Wind – The wind in your face always makes you forget about your belly aches. It takes a little time but relax, breathe and take in the wind. It might be the distraction or it might be the fresh air but this is a sure way to remedy the impending seasickness that is looking to spoil your sailing day.
• Don’t Look Down – I have explained that my youngest son would get seasick on a daily basis. Well, he would stick his head in a book and it would only get worse. Soon we convinced him that he should read less! (not the best advice) The simple idea is that you look out at the horizon and focus on a still object. This allows your inner ear to stop messing with your brain chemistry.
• Don’t Keep Asking – Don’t remind a person who is seasick by continuing to ask how they are feeling. They’ll let you know!
• Take the Helm – The brain works in mysterious ways – many people feel great relief once they grab the helm and refocus their minds on other things.

Don’t let seasickness ruin your ability to enjoy sailing. There are plenty of seasoned sailors who started out with complications from motion sickness and they have since earned their sea legs. There isn’t a one-size fits all solution, but most people seem to find their personal combination of preventive/responsive actions to keep from missing out on a day on the water.

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How to Avoid Seasickness on a Boat

The right choice of boat, medications, activities, and itineraries can dramatically reduce the risk of becoming seasick while on a boat

If you or someone in your party has a history of seasickness, or are worried about the possibility of being seasick, there are many things you can do to reduce the symptoms. There is no shame in getting seasick, many sailors out there can get sick from the rolling around - but they have a way of dealing with them. In this page, we will discuss options to ensure you get the best out of your charter. 

The three main factors that will influence the chances of getting seasick are:

1) Yacht. Choosing the right boat really can make the difference between a happy sailor and an unhappy one! 2) Medications. Being prepared for seasickness can make the difference between not getting it and getting it. Even the hardiest of sailors can still get seasick.  3) Following sensible tips either by experts or local knowledge.  The Boatbookings Team have put together their expert insight into how to overcome the symptoms of being seasick!

Enquire Now!

Choosing the right boat to reduce seasickness

The boat you are on has a major impact on how seasick members of your party may feel. In general, the larger the boat, the less it rocks and the fewer people will feel seasick. Specialized boats can also help.

Catamarans . Catamarans have two hulls, they rock laterally (side to side) significantly less than a monohull.  We highly recommend first-time charters of sailing yachts to charter a catamaran for lots of reasons, and reduced seasickness is one of them. Read more about the benefits of chartering a catamaran .

Additionally, motorized catamarans(also called power cats) are becoming more and more popular, for many of the same reasons that sailing catamarans are moving dramatically to catamarans.  Besides the benefit of more space and less rocking, they save significant fuel, which is both good for the environment and less expensive for you! See more about power cats as well as hundreds of charter power cats available .

Motor yachts . Motor yachts are generally good for cruising due to their large size; some motor yachts have stabilizers which are additions to a boat that does exactly as advertised: stabilizing the boat and reduce rocking.  They are usually found on larger motor yachts and superyachts.  Without going into technical detail, they act as underwater wings that reduce the propensity of the boat to rock laterally.

Bareboats. If you are keen to charter a bareboat but are worried about some of your party being seasick, below are some recommended medications that could help - monohulls generally rock slightly more, however, this doesn't mean you won't be able to enjoy the freedom of a bareboat vacation without the concern of seasickness!

Motion sickness/seasickness medications

There are several medications you can take to reduce the effects of seasickness. Be sure to speak with your doctor before you start the charter because these medications often require a prescription and may not be available in the ports along your itinerary!

Scopolamine, normally administered with behind-the-ear patches, is the "standard" seasickness medication. It can be obtained only with a prescription. However, there may be side effects such as drowsiness and dry mouth.  Other medications include dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), meclizine (Antivert, Bonine, Meni-D, Antrizine), promethazine (Phenergan, Phenadoz, Promethegan), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and cyclizine (Marezine).  Please consult your doctor before trying any of these.

Motion Ease is an emollient oil that you rub behind your ears.  It's inexpensive and can be purchased at your local pharmacy or online without a prescription.

If you want to opt for something more natural Ginger is a great alternative. Ginger root tablets can be purchased through Amazon fairly cheaply. 

One of the biggest tips is to consume as many ginger biscuits as humanly possible! This is not an excuse to eat lots of Ginger biscuits.. they do really work!

General tips to reduce seasickness

• Stay on deck as much as possible.  If you can see the horizon, your body has a better chance of dealing with the movement of the waves. And it always helps to breathe fresh air.
• Drink Colas.   The phosphoric acid in Pepsi or Coke can help control vomiting.
• Volunteer to helm. Steering the boat forces you to keep your eye on the horizon, and also keeps your mind busy and not thinking about being seasick.
• Stay in the center of the boat, if possible.  Avoid the berths that are in front of the boat because they rock the most.
• Reduce alcohol use.   A hangover is a bad cousin to seasickness, and one will make the other worse!
• Sleep on your back.   There isn't conclusive evidence of this, but first-hand evidence says it helps.
• Avoid greasy foods.  Indigestion can kick off seasickness.
• Keep busy. A wandering mind can be your enemy if you start feeling the onset of queasiness.  Help out on deck wherever possible when you're sailing or motoring!

Let's do it! Chartering while minimizing seasickness

By putting together the suggestions above you can charter in the location of your dreams while dramatically reducing the chance that you or your party will become seasick. If seasickness is a worry, Boabookings charter brokers will be happy to find you catamarans, power cats, boats with stabilizers and even recommend itineraries where you are less likely to become seasick.  We want you to charter and have everyone get the full experience!

We've included a list of some amazing yachts with stabilizers below to get your dreaming. Or please contact us and we can make it all happen!

See some of our yachts with stabilizers, below! 

• Guy Couach 37m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 37 m
• Year: 2010 (2017 Refit)
• From €105000 to €115000 per week
• Crew: Crewed
• Type: Motor
• Length: 37 m (125' 4")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Not just sophistication and style, DRAGONs selection of water toys is amongst the best!"

• Sunseeker 86 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 26.3 m
• From €57500 to €67500 per week
• Length: 26.3 m (89' 2")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "One of the finest Sunseeker yachts on the charter market, sleek and stylish lines define SEAWATER II."

• Mulder 36m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 36 m
• From €150000 to €165000 per week
• Length: 36 m (122' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "CALYPSO I is one of our favourite contemporary designs on the Amalfi Coast, with the option to have four double cabins!"

• Palmer Johnson 52m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 52.4 m
• From $250000 to $275000 per week
• Length: 52.4 m (178' 8")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "The truly recognisable yacht has so many unique and amazing features, she is an opportunity not to be missed!"

• Sunseeker 116 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 35.6 m
• From €135000 to €142500 per week
• Length: 35.6 m (121' 8")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "The newest Sunseeker 116 yacht with the finest deck spaces in her class cruising the French Riviera with an outstanding crew."

• Sanlorenzo SL 78 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 24.64 m
• From €49000 to €53000 per week
• Length: 24.64 m (83' 4")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Brand new 2020 yacht LUCKY available for crewed luxury charters on the Amalfi Coast."

• Ferretti 960 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 29.2 m
• Year: 2014 (Refit 2017)
• From €68000 to €75000 per week
• Length: 29.2 m (99' 4")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "One of the most stylish motor yachts on the market and the best family friendly yacht in the Adriatic!"

• From €135000 to €145000 per week

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "This new Mulder 36m offers fast, economic, and comfortable cruising the Mediterranean this summer."

• Sanlorenzo 38m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 38 m
• From €112500 to €135000 per week
• Length: 38 m (129' 8")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "TAKARA ONE is the epitome of luxurious yachting on the Turkish Riviera for guests looking for both relaxation and adventure."

• Ferretti 112 Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 34 m
• Year: 2011 (2023 Refit)
• From €85000 to €99000 per week
• Length: 34 m (115' 4")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "A beautiful motor yacht with an impressive list of watertoys, accommodating 12 guests in 5 cabins, available for your next Adriatic islands adventure!"

• Sunseeker 40m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 40 m
• Year: 2013 (2017 Refit)
• From €130000 to €155000 per week
• Length: 40 m (136' 4")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "This tri-deck Sunseeker is the epitome of luxury in the Med"

• Admiral Yachts 47m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 47 m
• Year: 2014 (2024 Refit)
• From €160000 to €210000 per week
• Length: 47 m (159' 8")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "One of the standout contemporary yachts in Greek waters with a stellar charter crew!"

• Ferretti 830 Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 25.3 m
• From €40000 to €44500 per week
• Length: 25.3 m (86' 10")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "This stunning and contemporary charter yacht is perfect for 8 guests to explore the Greek coastline in comfort!"

• Ocean Alexander 30R Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 30 m
• From $90000 to $100000 per week
• Length: 30 m (102' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Experience cutting edge design onboard brand new motor yacht O. This new Ocean Alexander 30R embodies the finest advances in modern yachting for an adventure-rich charter in the Bahamas."

• Fountaine Pajot Alegria 67 Crewed Catamaran
• Length: 20.36 m
• From €35500 to €42500 per week
• Type: Catamaran
• Length: 20.36 m (69' 8")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Cruise Greece in elegance and style on STEPHANIE!"

• Ferretti 881 Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 27 m
• Year: 2012 (2017 Refit)
• From €58000 to €72000 per week
• Length: 27 m (91' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "One of the standout yachts for friends and families in Sardinia with a brilliant captain. A Boatbookings favourite."

• Length: 27.52 m
• Year: 2009 (2023 Refit)
• From €54000 to €59000 per week
• Length: 27.52 m (93' 4")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "This stunning and contemporary charter yacht is perfect for 12 guests to explore the Greek coastline in comfort!"

• Ferretti 33m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 33 m
• From €120000 to €135000 per week
• Length: 33 m (112' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "SOUTH is the finest Ferretti for the Amalfi Coast, led by dynamic captain Giuseppe and his dedicated crew."

• Sanlorenzo 37m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• From €115000 to €125000 per week

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "MORNING STAR is a floating retreat to stimulate the soul and embark on an extraordinary adventure on the Turkish Riviera in the utmost luxury."

• Westport 130 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 39.62 m
• From $125000 to $140000 per week
• Length: 39.62 m (134' 1")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Live out your dream Bahamas luxury cruise on PIPE DREAM!"

• Oceanfast 48m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 48 m
• Year: 2010 (2018 Refit)
• From $180000 to $195000 per week
• Length: 48 m (163' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "A great array of water toys, a very experienced crew, and a chef who makes a great team in addition to a relaxed atmosphere in a minimalist environment are just a few of what BIG SKY can offer!"

• Benetti 37m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• From $125000 to $135000 per week

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "PAPAITO is a luxury motor yacht available for charter in the Bahamas!"

• Arcadia 85 Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 26 m
• From €51000 to €59000 per week
• Length: 26 m (88' 8")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "One of the most technologically advanced yachts available for charter. She has won award after award with unrivalled green credentials, making her the perfect travel companion for summer 2024 in the Balearics."

• Sunseeker Predator 92 Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 28.2 m
• Year: 2009 (2020 Refit)
• From €45000 to €49000 per week
• Length: 28.2 m (95' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "We love the Sunseeker Predator 92 and we know you will enjoy the exterior lounging and dining areas, perfect for cruising the Greek islands!"

• Peri 38m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• From €115000 to €130000 per week

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Experience cutting edge design onboard FX, an ultra-sleek and spacious yacht perfect for entertaining and relaxing with family and friends."

• Feadship 39m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 39 m
• From €140000 to €140000 per week
• Length: 39 m (132' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "A quality motor yacht from top to bottom with a dedicated can-do crew."

• Oceanco 184 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 56.2 m
• Year: 1993 (2016 Refit)
• From €230000 to €250000 per week
• Length: 56.2 m (191' 4")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Experience the finer things whilst afloat on an extension of The Wellesley; London’s finest boutique-grand hotel in Knightsbridge!"

• Codecasca 62m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 62.5 m
• Year: 2003 (2013 Refit)
• From €360000 to €390000 per week
• Length: 62.5 m (212' 10")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "Step onboard 200ft of pure luxury, for your next charter in the Caribbean or West Mediterranean."

• Ray Kemp 34m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 34.5 m
• Year: 1979 (2009 Refit)
• From AUD125000 to AUD145000 per week
• Length: 34.5 m (117' 6")

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "A truly unique SuperYacht, luxurious throughout having been meticulously restored, many of the best orignal features remain."

• Benetti 120 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
• Length: 36.6 m
• Year: 2006 (2020 Refit)
• From €87500 to €105000 per week
• Length: 36.6 m (124' )

BOATBOOKINGS SAYS: "An impressive yacht for exploring Greece!"

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What Is The Best Boat For Seasickness? 5 Gentle Hull Designs

Seasickness plagues a lot of people daily, especially ones new to boating. But are there boat types that could help prevent seasickness?

While there is no surefire way to prevent seasickness, some boat types are better at reducing the chances of getting seasick than others. In this article, you will see the five best boat types to prevent seasickness and some tips to prevent it altogether.

Hopefully, by the end, you will be able to decide what you think the best boat for seasickness is!

Table of Contents

Pontoon boat, monohull sailboats with keels, frequently asked questions, best boats for seasickness.

Seasickness, also known as motion sickness, is a common problem for many people when they are on a boat.

It is caused by the rocking motion of the boat and can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Luckily, there are boats designed to help mitigate this feeling. 

Catamarans, pontoons, trimarans, yachts, and monohull boats are five options that can help with seasickness. Generally speaking, Stability is key when trying to combat seasickness.

Monohulls, if they are small, can be the worst option, while larger multi-hull boats are your best choice for preventing seasickness.

A catamaran is a type of boat that is characterized by its two parallel hulls. This unique design allows the boat to have a wide and stable platform, which can help to reduce the chances of seasickness.

The wide hulls also provide a smooth and comfortable ride, which can help to reduce the impact of the rocking motion.

One of the main advantages of a catamaran is its stability. Unlike monohull boats, which tend to roll from side to side, catamarans have a low center of gravity and are less prone to rocking.

If you are considering a charter boat for a trip or for a purchase of your own, catamarans are excellent in helping prevent seasickness.

A pontoon boat is a type of boat that is characterized by its large, flat deck and pontoons (or tubes) that provide buoyancy. These are very similar to catamarans, but you would not want to use these in rough waters.

One of the main advantages of a pontoon boat is its stability. Because of its design, a pontoon boat is able to distribute its weight evenly across the water, which makes it less prone to rocking.

Reduced rocking means you are less likely to be seasick (see a trend here?).

Related: Deck Boat vs Pontoon: Pros & Cons Explained.

A trimaran is a type of sailboat that consists of a main hull with two smaller outrigger hulls attached to its sides. This unique design allows the boat to be incredibly stable on the water, which can help prevent seasickness.

Since trimarans have three hulls instead of just one, it is much less susceptible to back-and-forth rocking motion.

You could argue that it is a step above catamarans or pontoons since three hulls are better than two for stability.

This can help reduce or eliminate the motion sickness that many people experience on boats.

In addition to its stability, a trimaran’s design also allows it to cut through waves more efficiently and maintain a smoother, more comfortable ride even in choppy waters.

Yachts are another great option for preventing seasickness. Unlike smaller boats, yachts have a larger displacement and are designed to handle rough seas and large waves. 

This means that they are less likely to rock or sway, which can contribute to seasickness. Yachts also tend to have a more stable and smooth ride than smaller boats, which can help prevent seasickness.

In addition to their stability, yachts also offer plenty of space for passengers to move around and find a comfortable spot.

This is important because being able to stand or sit in a position that allows you to keep your balance can help prevent seasickness. 

Yachts also tend to have large windows and open deck spaces, which can help reduce feelings of claustrophobia and allow passengers to see the horizon. This is key to preventing seasickness.

See also: 10 Must-Have Center Console Boat Accessories For 2023.

Sailboats are a classic choice for those looking to enjoy the open waters. While they may not be as large or luxurious as other boat types, they can provide a smooth and comfortable ride.

The design of a monohull sailboat, with a long and narrow hull, helps it cut through the water and provide a stable ride. However, the smaller the boat, the more likely you will feel everything.

If your monohull has a keel such as those seen in sailboats , it will add much-needed stability and prevent intense rocking. This will definitely lower your chances of seasickness, but consider a larger monohull if you can.

A variety of scenarios make a difference on seasickness. If you have the right boat, as well as a few other things, your situation might be different than someone else’s.

Who is Most Likely to Be Seasick?

According to a study conducted by Human Molecular Genetics , roughly a third of people are prone to motion sickness. On top of that, women and children are the most susceptible.

A few other factors that cause seasickness include:

Smoking Low quality sleep Easily stressed Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Can Diet Affect Seasickness?

Diet is closely related to seasickness. If you are able to eat less frequently, consume fewer calories, and focus on protein, this will help alleviate symptoms before they arrive.

It is best to eat something before traveling on the water, at least an hour before.

Where Is The Best Place to Sit if Feeling Seasick?

If possible, sit as close to the middle of the boat as you can. This might mean going to the cabin located nearest to the boat’s core. This will have the least amount of motion and offer stability for your legs.

In addition, you could try sitting close to the waterline. The higher above the waterline you are, the more motion you will be feeling.

How to Minimize Seasickness?

If you are experiencing seasickness, the best thing to do is to look out at sea. Looking at the deck or locked away in your cabin is not ideal. 

Trying a nap is another idea to help with seasickness. In addition, you could try pressing down on the P6 pressure point. This is located about three widths of your fingers down from your wrist, or slightly in the middle of your forearm.

Growing up in Florida, I’ve been surrounded by saltwater my entire life…and I love sharing my passion with others.

To learn more about why I started Saltwater Mecca, visit the ABOUT page.

Thank you for reading this article. Browse around & have some fun!

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Seasickness

Author: Nikki Henderson

Every blue-water sailor will end up coping with seasickness. That is a certainty. Whilst it may not be you, it is inevitable that you will at the least be called upon to support one of your seasick crew. Feeling a little ‘green’ on the first few days of a passage is normal. And despite the irritating stigma that surrounds this natural and normal bodily reaction, being seasick does not make you weak, or a ‘lesser’ sailor and it is certainly not something to feel ashamed or embarrassed about.

How many times have I heard fellow sailors say, “oh I never get seasick.” It’s extremely rare for a sailor to have genuinely never been seasick. Looking back over my 20 years of sailing yachts, I can only recall a handful of people who have been fully immune to it. Us regular queasy folk tend to watch those people – green with envy as well as seasickness. Whilst they happily hang around reading their book on day 1 of a passage, we are hot footing it from the deck to our bunks praying that we manage to get horizontal before our stomachs feel the churning wrath of being down below.

And yes, I do say ‘we’. Whilst it is more unusual these days for me to feel seasick, my insides can sometimes feel unsettled on the first few days of a passage, especially if it is very rough. I’m casting my mind back to sailing in the English Channel just a few months ago. Less than 24 hours in, I was head down pumping the diesel tainted bilge water whilst we sailed upwind into a gale – and there was some very deep breathing going on! Next time you feel unwell, know that you are not alone – the pros can feel it too.

I’m not a doctor and am not qualified to tell you how to cure seasickness. But I encourage you to find out what helps you keep it under control. Try as many different options as you can, because it is as much an illness of the mind as it is the body. When you find the answer – however weird it is – stick with it and trust yourself. I have seen people try scopolamine patches, Stugeron, Kwells, and other meds; I’ve seen people eating ginger like it’s going out of fashion; wearing the pressure point wrist bands; some people fast; some people eat; a friend of mine swears by salt and vinegar crisps; others spend as much time as they can horizontal with their eyes closed; some just grin and bear it and work through it; and some curl up in the foetal position – wonder if they are dying – and then emerge re-born a few days later and feel fine again. There are no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ answers, as long as they don’t involve you beating yourself up or feeling guilty. There is no one who gets seasickness intentionally (that would be odd…). So, anyone who is resenting you for being sick needs to work on their empathy – this is their issue. Not yours.

When it comes to seasickness, prevention is better than cure.

So the above remedies need to be consumed before you feel sick for them to work. But there are some common triggers too – worth avoiding if you can.

Anxiety is the most common cause of seasickness that I’ve observed. Feeling nervous about a passage or worried about being seasick specifically, is a fast track to getting sick. In fact, the only time I have personally ever actually vomited from seasickness was as much as an emotional reaction than it was physical. Working on how to calm and relax yourself – possibly with a professional therapist – could be a good investment if you think this might be a risk for you.

A selection of other common triggers to seasickness that I’ve encountered are as follows: starting a passage in heavy weather; eating rich food, (although this one can be questionable: “It’s not seasickness I think that it must have been the cheese” – while the boat slams upwind in 40 knots); multi-directional sea-states; other people vomiting near you, or on you (yes that happens); pungent smells – bacon/curry/diesel; being dehydrated; not eating enough; eating too much’ being hungover; over exerting yourself during a sail change; getting too hot. Try to avoid as many of these as you can.

So many of us struggle through seasickness. We talk so much about prevention and cure – but what about how to support and care for someone who is seasick? How can we ease the suffering of our crewmates who are confined to their bunks? This, to me, is the key point I’d like anyone reading this blog to take away.

To start with – lets talk empathy.

How does it feel to be seasick, apart from feeling nauseous and unwell? A seasick crew member will feel left out and lonely. They will be able to hear the rest of the crew chatting and laughing and having fun, whilst they lie on their own feeling alone. They will hear the boat sailing and feel like they are missing out. The noises of the boat are amplified down below – the slaps of the waves on the hull, the griding of electric winches and the flogging of sails. Without context this can be scary. It can sound so much worse than it is, and they might start running all possible scenarios in their mind. They may also feel helpless, undignified, and embarrassed; it’s likely they won’t have brushed their teeth in a few days, or washed, or even left their bunk at all. And they will feel sad. They came to sea to experience the magic of the ocean – the stars, the horizon, the dolphins, the boat carving through the water, sunrises, sunsets – and if they are sick in their bunk, they see nothing but the inside of their eyelids.

Inspired by two courageous crew members I had last year who were tragically seasick for four days out of six on a passage from Sweden to the UK, here are some suggestions of how to best support your seasick crewmate:

• Create a watch schedule to check on your crewmate on a regular basis so they are never alone for too long.
• Set up a system for the crewmate to let you know they need help, as they probably don’t have the energy to shout or get out of bed. A VHF radio in their bunk perhaps on an agreed channel. Or a flag system. A bell maybe. Just make sure you can hear or see it from the deck.
• When you check on them, talk to them gently. Just because their eyes are closed does not mean they are asleep.
• Hold their hand maybe.
• Tell them what’s going on: where you are, what the sail set is, what the navigation plan is. In other words, give them the context they are missing.
• Spend time with them rather than just fleeting visits to tick a box. Entertain them. Make them feel less of a burden and more of your friend.
• Help them to feel clean and human: wipe their face with a cool flannel, bring them a toothbrush and a bowl to spit out in, possibly even administer deodorant.
• As they recover, ease them back in gently. Help them to feel part of the team they so wanted to be part of these past few days. Give them jobs that make them feel needed – but ones that are also accessible to someone who is still likely weak and slow. Navigation perhaps. Or helming whilst sitting down.

I started this blog by stating out the inevitability of seasickness for any blue-water sailor. I’ll finish with a reminder that it is worth it. Get through those first few days – perhaps a week – and just one sunny day with glorious wind and good company truly can be enough to make it all worth it. The beauty of sailing lies in contrast.

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Avoiding Seasickness: 8 Tips for a Smooth Ride

Table of Contents

For some, seasickness is an obstacle to enjoying boating . Depending on conditions like sea state, excessive heat or cold, odors, diet, exhaustion, and other factors, seasickness can affect anyone (even those normally less prone).

Not to go WebMD on you, but “seasickness” is actually motion sickness from the brain receiving mixed messages from the eyes, ears, and muscles.

What your eyes are experiencing doesn’t match what your inner ear is experiencing regarding balance and what the rest of your body is doing in reaction to motion. It ranges from a minor annoyance to severe discomfort.

Seasickness isn’t something to ignore for many reasons. It induces weakness, fatigue, and disorientation, and impairs your ability to make good decisions, which is especially problematic if you’re the skipper.

Luckily, there are ways to avoid seasickness, including medication, preparation, and mindfulness!

Here are our best eight tips on how to avoid seasickness :

• Oral medication
• Transdermal medication
• Acupressure
• Position yourself
• Watch your intake
• Prepare in advance

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1. Oral medication

If you’re unsure whether or not you’ll be seasick, you can medicate preventively. Over-the-counter oral medications are designed to minimize or eliminate seasickness, especially if you’ll be out for an extended period or in rough weather. Meclizine is generic for Bonine, and dimenhydrinate is Dramamine, and both are cheaper than their respective brand names. Most people feel less drowsy with Bonine versus Dramamine. It’s best to take oral meds the night before a boating outing to give the drugs a chance to get into your system.

2. Transdermal medication

Another preventive method is the scopolamine patch which delivers motion sickness medication via the skin. Place the patch on the neck behind your ear and replace it every four days. Patches can cause dry mouth or skin irritation. Taking any medication after symptoms have already started will most likely not work.

3. Acupressure

A mechanical method of seasickness control is acupressure via a wristband. The pressure on the inside of your wrist may help you feel better, and no sleep-inducing drugs will enter your system. These bands are inexpensive, don’t need a prescription, and can be purchased in a drugstore, but they don’t work for everyone.

Prevention is key so put down the phone, camera, and binoculars, and don’t read a book or magazine. Instead, focus on the distant and level horizon. Take the wheel and give your brain something to do other than spotlight its own confusion. Seasickness can be literally mind-over-matter, so focus less on feeling queasy and more on what’s going on around you.

READ MORE: Knowing a Pontoon Boat’s Limitations

Breathing slowly and deliberately is another way to rewire your brain when you’re feeling funky. Inhale fresh, cool air through the nose and exhale through your mouth. While doing this, stay on deck to avoid hot, enclosed, or smelly spaces.

6. Position yourself

Try to stay in the middle of a moving vessel because either end of the boat will experience greater motion. Stay on deck and low (not on a tuna tower or a flybridge ). Get away from engine exhaust and cooking fumes if possible. Lay down on your back to ease the effect on the inner ear.

7. Watch your intake

A day or two before the voyage, be mindful of what you eat and drink. Avoid spicy, acidic, and rich foods. Drink plenty of plain water and eat absorbent crackers and bread. Some people feel relief with ginger cookies or candies. Skip alcohol and don’t smoke.

8. Prepare in advance

If you’re ill with a cold that has your sinuses and ears stuffed up, stay home because this may worsen inner ear imbalance and induce motion sickness. Don’t arrive at the dock exhausted because fatigue contributes to seasickness. Both hypothermia and heat exhaustion can exacerbate the condition so dress in layers.

Seasickness isn’t just unpleasant it can be dangerous so it’s best to prepare and take steps to minimize effects throughout the day. So beware of early signs including nausea, excessive saliva, and yawning.

A word of caution

Boaters, prepare your guests by letting them know the symptoms of seasickness.

Pro Tip: You can share this blog post with anyone you’ll take on your boat by simply copying/pasting the link.

And remember, you’re not immune even if you’ve been out before without a problem!

Planning can help you avoid, and manage, seasickness; a positive attitude will guide you through the initial signs of discomfort so you can make the best of your boat trip.

Boatsetter is a unique boat-sharing platform that gives everyone— whether you own a boat or you’re just renting — the chance to experience life on the water. You can list a boat , book a boat , or make money as a captain .

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Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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• Catamarans and Seasickness

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Catamaran Advantages vs. Monohulls: Seasickness Minimized

Catamarans are known to afflict sailors with much less seasickness than monohulls. This is the main reason why rental companies choose catamarans. Seasickness, after the expense of sailing as a sport, is probably the single biggest deterrent, which keeps people on land. This condition is most uncomfortable and often the afflicted crew members utter confused death-wishes to end their agony. Seasickness is caused by a number of factors such as anxiety, fatigue, thirst, hunger and cold, which all add to a sense of disorientation, yet the first and foremost cause of this malady is motion. In foul weather the heeling and yawing environment of a monohull is conducive to a sense of helplessness, where one feels they must hide in the bowels of the boat, surrounded by diesel fumes, and lacking air or a seaview. It is a fact that more people get seasick on monohulls than catamarans. The best remedy for a nauseous crew member is to get him out into the open and keep him busy. Usually driving the boat and looking at a distant object on the horizon will help.

The catamaran provides a gentler motion and in general, a more pleasurable sailing environment. The motion of the boat might be quicker, especially if sailing upwind, but it is usually perceived as more predictable. The high initial stiffness and moment of inertia of a cruising catamaran greatly help the human body to anticipate the next move of the boat. This is in significant contrast to the slower roll behavior of a ballasted monohull where seasickness in muffled cabins down below is more prone to occur.

Locating twin engines separate, and at a distance, from the living accommodations, as is mostly the case on modern catamarans, also keeps the sickening diesel vapors and noise away from the crew. Most monohulls, in comparison, have their engine buried under the cockpit, with only the folding companionway ladder separating the smelly beast from the passengers. Novice sailors will also appreciate the better ventilation a cat can offer. Breathing fresh air and being able to see the horizon from a sheltered saloon greatly reduces the anxiety associated with seasickness.

As we can see, safety has many faces and seasickness is possibly the ugliest of them all. More seamanship errors are committed by fatigued and queasy sailors than healthy ones. There have been reports of decreased night vision during and after the treatment with Accutane. Therefore, patients should be advised of this potential problem and warned to be cautious when driving at night. Visual problems should be carefully monitored during the therapy with Accutane. Dry eyes, corneal opacity, decreased night vision and keratitis usually disappear after the discontinuation of the drug. Creating a more habitable environment will thus contribute to the safety of crew and ship. A catamaran therefore seems the smarter alternative.

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Do catamarans make you seasick.

• Post Written By: Boater Jer
• Published: March 10, 2021
• Updated: July 8, 2022

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Seasickness resembles motion sickness occurring while on a boat. The level of uneasiness can vary based on the vessel. Seasickness varies based on the sailing comfort. Smoother the ride, fewer chances of seasickness. But, catamarans are well-known for smoother rides. So will it make you seasick? Let’s find out.

Catamarans can lower the risk of seasickness to a certain degree. That’s because they offer a smoother ride than other mono-hull boats. Better ventilation further reduces uneasiness. Though, first-time riders can still get uncomfortable on catamarans due to deficient boating experience.

Wish to know more about catamarans and whether they’ll make you seasick or not? This article covers all the relevant information, so keep reading until the end.

What Makes You Seasick?

For a better grasp on the subject, let’s first learn what makes you seasick in the first place. What’re the scientific reasons? This section covers that.

The boat moves up-down and side-to-side constantly. Such regular movements trigger an imbalance in the inner parts of the ears. The imbalance directly stresses the brain resulting in nausea and or vomiting.

Still confused? Let’s elaborate on this scientific theory a little bit.

Deeper Explanation

Basically, it’s the atmospheric pressure present in the inner parts of your ears, which misbalances when the body experiences regular motions formed by the boat’s movements. When you’re inside a cabin, the view perceived by your eyes changes with the boat’s movements. As a result, your eyes observe a stable scene, while your ears experience a misbalance.

This situation makes your brain stressed out and once it’s unable to sustain any longer, it releases stress-related hormones. These hormones are the reason for nausea, vomiting, or urge to vomit, which is better known as seasickness. 

Hence, your endurance level determines whether or not you can make it through a long cruise. Experienced boaters usually become habitual of this phenomenon and their body adapts to the boat’s unusual movements.

Seasickness Prediction

If you’ve never been on a boat, determining whether or not you’ll get seasick is tough. Fortunately, there’s a test to predict it.

• Ask yourself. Have you ever been motion sick on a road trip? Ever felt uneasy in a car, or a high-speed automobile? If yes, then you may become uncomfortable on your cruise.
• People who find air travels unpleasant might fall seasick.
• If you’re unable to survive or enjoy a roller coaster or other amusement parks’ rides, cruising can be pretty painful for you.
• Those who’re immune to air travel, fast automobiles, and or roller coasters shouldn’t fall seasick so easily.

Seasickness Remedies

Not habitual of cruises? No problem. Here’s a quick list you should go through, that’ll help you overcome uneasiness while on a cruise. They’re applicable for catamarans as well.

• Focus on the horizon. Several veterans suggest keeping your eye on the horizon helps to overcome seasickness. Just don’t carry it too far.
• Fresh air helps maintain calmness. Walk around on the lower deck and get some fresh air. 
• Center of gravity is a pivot of the boat, from where it moves side-to-side. As you move lower, you’ll achieve a lower center of gravity. But as you move upwards, you’ll achieve a higher center of gravity (it’s a point where you’ll experience increased boat movements). Moving downwards will reduce movements, decreasing the chances of seasickness.
• Food and water in low amounts will help calm down your anxious stomach. Consumption of food and water in large amounts at once will increase the burden on your stomach, which can result in vomiting. Therefore, always go for minute quantities. Also, avoid alcohol. It’ll stress your body.
• Few people carry medications for seasickness. It’s a rather trustworthy option than all of the above. Consult your physician for the same.

Seasickness On Catamarans

Although catamarans can reduce seasickness to a certain magnitude, it’ll be wrong to conclude that you can’t possibly fall seasick on them. So, the reasons why you’re less likely to fall sick on a catamaran as are follows:

• Catamarans have living decks on the top. This allows fresh air ventilation, allowing you to calm down and relax.
• The engines are installed far away from the living room(s). That way, the smoke and noise aren’t going to bother you much, minimizing the risk of falling sick.
• The ride is far smoother and gentle on catamarans as compared to other boats.
• Catamarans are multi-hull boats. As a result, they experience relatively reduced effects of waves. Therefore, you’ll notice fewer side-by-side movements on a catamaran, permitting you to stay cozier than on other boats.
• The geometrical design of a catamaran further supports tackling seasickness.
• Given that the living space is constructed above, you’ll get a better scenic view. Remember the importance of concentrating on the horizon? You’ll achieve it here easily.

The roll behavior and pendulum effect are higher on mono-hull boats and lower in multi-hull boats like catamarans. It’s quite scientific, so follow this link if you feel the need to dive that deep. It explains this topic in detail with diagrams.

Catamarans Are Highly Preferred

Since the catamarans hold so many extraordinary benefits in possibly eliminating seasickness, countless tourist and commercial organizations prefer them. But why? 

That way, they can present a much pleasant cruising experience to their highly valued customers. Since a lot of riders aren’t immune to seasickness, they’ll automatically prefer catamarans over other cruise ships for a healthier sailing experience. Additionally, ferries do prefer catamarans as well for the exact same reason.

Seasickness Symptoms

Ideally, when on a boat, you’ll notice a few symptoms before falling sick, which most people often ignore. Taking essential measures on their occurrence can reduce the chances of falling sick. Hence you’ll suffer less.

Many people complain of dizziness while cruising. It’s quite natural to feel dizzy due to lacking nutrition. If you stayed hungry for a while, try eating light snacks in small amounts. Drink sufficient water (but not too much). If you still feel dizzy after an hour, maybe you’re about to get sick.

• Loss of Appetite

Discomfort kills hunger. If you don’ feel like eating anything, you’ll eventually lose energy and fall sick. It’s best to try eating something really light.

Pale skin can be a result of malfunctioning bloodstreams, which is caused due to uneasiness. But it can also be a sign of seasickness.

The best method of overcoming these symptoms is proper medications. Furthermore, some people experience headaches, extreme tiredness, shallow breathing, etc. They’re all symptoms of seasickness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Although catamarans offer quite a stable cruising experience, you can still experience a bumpy ride in rough seas. This can result in worsened health, ultimately making you seasick.  However, it’ll take extreme tides to misbalance a catamaran. Due to their structure and design, they can float even with a hole in them. This makes catamarans almost unsinkable.

Lots of people believe that getting in the hull can prevent seasickness, which is acceptable to a certain extent. Basically, at the hulls, the center of gravity lowers (discussed above), which minimizes the sickness. The hulls of any boat are said to be most stable. 

Basically, anyone can get sick on a cruise, still, these people are more vulnerable: – Women, especially pregnant ladies, menstruating girls, and those who’re on hormone therapy. – People who’re suffering from migraine – Kids up to 12 years old (though that’s not a rule of thumb) – Asthma patients, people who consume drugs, and or people on regular medications (anti-depressants, ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.) – Older people

Since the occurrence of this phenomenon is absolutely based on an individual’s endurance level, still, it can last for up to 4 hours after stopping the motion. If you felt sick in the middle of your trip, you’ll have to suffer until your body starts reacting to your medications.

Antihistamines is a common medicine for motion sickness and are available at most drug stores. Cyclizine (Marezine) and dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) are considered good as well. Please note that this merely a suggestion as per WebMD , and you MUST consult a doctor before consuming these drugs. Also, you MUST avoid giving them to kids (without professional consultation) no matter what. For kids from 2 to 12 years of age, dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl) might prove to be helpful. (again, don’t give them without consulting).

Seasickness is common while cruising. The young generation usually ignores this phenomenon and regrets later. We advise carrying some medications for backup. Many people consume ginger for relief. Also, people overeat during their cruise perhaps because of hunger, or the food was delicious. Just ensure you avoid overeating since it can be painful later. 

By the end of this article, we’ve covered a lot of content related to catamarans and whether they make you seasick. Our job was to offer the right information, and now it’s your turn to act wisely. Happy cruising!

• https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/seasickness.html#:~:text=If%20you’ve%20ever%20had,erratic%20motion%20on%20the%20water .
• https://www.canstar.com.au/travel-insurance/how-do-i-know-if-i-will-get-seasick-on-a-cruise/
• https://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/easy-ways-to-keep-from-getting-seasick.aspx
• https://www.godownsize.com/catamarans-seasickness-facts/#Catamarans_and_Seasickness
• https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/ear-infection/motion-sickness
• https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/how-to-beat-motion-sickness

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Advertisement Seasickness resembles motion sickness occurring while on a boat. The level of uneasiness can vary based on the vessel. Seasickness varies based on the sailing comfort. Smoother the ride, fewer chances of seasickness. But, catamarans are well-known for smoother rides. So will it make you seasick? Let’s find out. Catamarans can lower the risk

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What causes motion sickness—and how can you prevent it?

Traveling by boat, car, or even through virtual reality can make some people queasy. Experts weigh in on what to do about it.

For some travelers, a catamaran sail off Oahu, Hawaii , or a camel ride through the desert in Morocco isn’t an enviable vacation experience. It’s an encounter with nausea, dizziness, and cold sweats.

Motion sickness like this can happen to almost anyone, including children and dogs. Studies suggest that more than half of all people who ride in automobiles experience carsickness . Recent surveys of members of the Indian Navy , Icelandic fishermen , and South Carolina marine biologists indicate that up to 80 percent of individuals who work on boats get seasick sometimes.

“We’re even seeing cybersickness now, with people looking at their phones when riding in the car or wearing glasses for a 3D movie,” says Andrea Bubka , a professor of psychology at Saint Peter’s University in New Jersey, who has extensively studied motion sickness.

Here’s why motion sickness happens and what travelers can do to prevent it.

What causes it

Scientists aren’t sure why some people feel nauseated the second they step on a boat, while others can blithely read long novels while riding in the backseat of a car. But they have a few theories.

Many scholars believe motion sickness is caused by sensory conflict, a discrepancy between what people see and what their bodies are experiencing. “Human beings did not evolve to travel in space shuttles and use virtual-reality video games,” says Marcello Cherchi, a neurologist at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine.

Sensory conflict happens when your body feels the heaving of an ocean ferry or the jolting motion of a bus winding through the mountains and your eyes, ears, and other senses can’t catch up. This results in symptoms like a dry mouth, dizziness, upset stomach, or a pounding headache.

However, other scientists believe that people get motion sick because they don’t instinctively change how they sit, stand, or walk in a moving mode of transport. That disconnect causes you to feel ill.  

One of the biggest proponents of this “postural stability theory” is Tom Stoffregen , a professor of kinesiology at the University of Minnesota. “On a boat or plane, you have to learn to move differently—like sailors who get their ‘sea legs’ after a few days,” he says. “The key is physical control of your body, and some individuals adapt more quickly than others.”

Genetics might play a part, too. A 2015 study of 480,000 customers of DNA-testing company 23andme identified 413 genetic markers—many related to balance or eye, ear, and cranial development—that could make an individual predisposed to motion sickness.

Preventing motion sickness  

The easiest way to combat motion sickness is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Hydrate and keep fresh air flowing while traveling, either by opening a window in the car, turning on the air vent above you on the plane, or heading to the deck on a cruise ship.  

“And be careful what you eat when you travel,” says Bubka. Anything that upsets your stomach on dry land—eating too much (or too little), drinking excessive amounts of alcohol or caffeine—could be amplified by motion.  

“Do everything you can to be sure your view isn’t obstructed,” says Natascha Tuznik , a doctor who specializes in travel medicine at the University of California Davis. “Look at the horizon if you’re out to sea and sit in the front seat of the car where you can see the road and what’s coming.” Closely watching what’s coming helps your eyes and inner ears sync more quickly with other bodily functions.

Avoiding triggers and anti-nausea training

Some research suggests that doing physical or mental exercises could help humans train themselves to be less motion sick. The Puma Method , developed by a flight surgeon to serve airsick pilots, uses yoga-like stretches and angular movements to build up anti-nausea conditioning. A 2020 study at England’s University of Warwick found that, after doing 15-minute visuospatial training exercises (finding hidden objects in puzzles, folding paper), many subjects didn’t get sick when taken for car rides.  

“The advantage is that these approaches don’t require medication,” says Cherchi. “The disadvantage is that they can entail considerable discomfort, at least initially.”

People prone to motion sickness can also practice “trigger avoidance,” steering clear of activities that make them bilious. If long bus rides make you turn green, rent a car instead, then sit up front or drive yourself. Those prone to seasickness should take flat-water river cruises or choose larger oceangoing ships with smoother rides.  

Medication—or gadgets—might help

Another way to combat travel-related nausea? Use an over-the-counter motion sickness drug (like Dramamine) or a doctor-prescribed Scopolamine patch (usually worn behind the ear). Both are anticholinergics, which block and inhibit the central nervous system to create a calming effect on the muscles in the stomach and bowels.

However, these medicines only work if used a short time before you set sail or board that flight. Such drugs can also make you groggy, and many people have health conditions that preclude their use. Stoffregen advises travelers who don’t want to take pills to try ginger chews or gingersnaps instead. “There’s well-documented evidence that a little bit of ginger can significantly reduce nausea,” he says.

Multiple gadgets promise to help with motion sickness. Pressure-point wristbands , which rely on acupressure principles, come in models from inexpensive and basic to high-tech and high-priced . Wacky-looking anti-nausea glasses also came to market about two years ago, sporting liquid-filled frames and four round, glass-free lenses. The idea is that the liquid in the specs shifts as you move, creating an artificial horizon.  

While many users report feeling better when using these devices on planes, trains, and automobiles, studies have yet to support their efficacy. “Still, if there’s a placebo effect, and you don’t get sick, then I don’t care about the science,” says Stoffregen. “It’s money well spent.”

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Catamarans In Rough Seas? Facts and Figures From Sailors!

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I had my first “real” sailing experience 11 years ago on a monohull in the Bahamas, before that I worked at a Ferrari workshop. Coming from a “dry-land-racing” world made me wonder why some would argue that cats are unsafe in rough seas. They should be more stable since they have a wider base, just as in the racing world, right? A few years later I still hear this old statement that catamarans arent safe for rough weather, so today ill try to add some info on the topic.

Catamarans are safe in rough seas because their double-hull design and wide stance make them highly stable. They’re also easy to maneuver, have shallow drafts, and high speeds that help them outrun storms. Still, you need a skilled crew capable of controlling the vessel to ensure your safety.

In this article, we’ll explore several reasons why catamarans are safe in rough seas. We will also take a deeper look at what makes catamarans capable of handling rough sea conditions. Keep it here to discover valuable tips on how to sail your catamaran safely despite the weather.

Table of Contents

Catamarans Are Practically Unsinkable

A capsized monohull might right itself up, but guess what? A well-designed cruising catamaran is very hard to capsize and almost impossible to sink. This doesn’t mean that it’s okay to go looking for storms to conquer, though. So, what makes a catamaran so difficult to sink, even in the unlikely event that it flips over? Let’s find out. 

If you want to dive a little deeper into Catamaran capsize statistics I suggest my other article: Why catamarans capsize!

Catamarans Are Highly Stable

In rough seas, a catamaran will show its superior performance through its twin hulls. Rough seas are defined as waves that rise to heights between 2 to 6 feet (0.6 -1.8 meters). 

The hulls turn a catamaran into a floating platform that’s pretty sturdy. In addition, their wide stance and solid construction make the vessel extremely stable, allowing it to withstand the water’s constant pounding motion. The larger the boat, the more stable it gets. 

The result is a smooth ride with minimal to no rocking from wave action. As a result, you are less likely to suffer from motion sickness on board a catamaran. A stable platform means reefing and sail changes become much easier and safer, particularly during rough weather. You suffer less fatigue and are thus more alert. Furthermore, there is minimal risk of anyone suffering severe injuries or falling overboard.

Cats Are Easy To Maneuver 

Catamarans manufacturers employ various design and structural techniques to enhance maneuverability. Firstly, the bridgedeck positioning is above the water to create a high bridgedeck clearance , which contributes to a ride that is free from loud noises called bridgedeck slamming. Something that old school cats had problems with and would prematurely fatigue the crew.

Read this article to understand what makes a great blue water catamaran (a cat that’s design for rough seas)!

Secondly, catamarans are lightweight vessels, making it easier to steer and control them. Therefore, if you get caught up in rough weather, you are more likely to be able to handle the waves correctly and safely.

In addition to the double hulls, cats also have dual engines , making it easier to maneuver the vessel in and out of tight spots. This feature is particularly useful when you need to escape an oncoming storm and find shelter in a crowded marina. What’s more, if one engine fails as you try to outrun a storm, you can always rely on the second engine to get you to safety. 

As mentioned earlier, an alert crew is essential for vessel safety in all weather conditions. And since catamarans are easy to maneuver, crew fatigue becomes a lesser issue, allowing you to sail from rough seas to safety. 

It’s also easy to learn how to sail a catamaran , even as a new sailor. As a result, you will be more comfortable with your boat, promoting more straightforward navigation in rough waters. 

How long does it take to learn to sail a catamaran? Check this out!

And if you want to get started right away I suggest signing up for two free lessons with NauticEd

Catamarans Have Less Draft

Because catamarans rely on the buoyancy from their twin narrow hulls (instead of one wide hull on a monohull), they can handle a shallow draft without hampering either their stability or maneuverability. Cats also spread their weight equally between the twin hulls, which allows them to sit much higher on the water.

A shallow draft means a catamaran has more shelter options when bad weather is imminent . You can also anchor your boat much closer to the shore where it’s relatively safe.

You can actually park your cat on the beach, something that is referred to as “ beaching “.

They Are Incredibly Spacious

You might be wondering how ample space has anything to do with safety in rough seas. Let me explain. Catamaran layouts are well-thought-out, with spacious rooms being a major consideration. As a result, most areas, including the cockpit, main saloon, accommodation quarters, and galley, are exceptionally cozy. This enhances sailing comfort and also allows for 360-degree saloon views, which greatly improves visibility for the helmsman. 

Another benefit is that there’s ample storage space, and all the sailing gear and equipment have a home. So, your gear is well-organized and stowed away carefully without crowding every available space. In rough seas, it helps the crew and anyone else on board avoid potential injuries from flying gear. 

A large storage capacity also means larger fuel supplies. This is important, especially during rough weather as the engines work harder to motor through the strong currents hence they require more fuel. 

Catamarans Do Not Heel

As mentioned earlier, ocean waves don’t affect catamarans as much as monohulls because, unlike monohulls, these boats don’t heel or roll (or at least not as much). This is why it’s easy to take a stroll either on the catamaran deck while under sail. The lack of heeling also makes it easier to handle the boat. 

Still, due to the wide bridge deck fastened between two hulls, heavier seas could generate slapping or pounding sounds while underway (see bridgedeck clearance).

Check this article out to understand bridgedeck clearance!

Catamarans Have High Speeds

The best way to keep your vessel safe is to avoid bad weather . But this is not always possible as you could still get caught up in a storm – despite the availability of weather reports. Fortunately, because catamarans are light, they deliver impressive speeds that you can count on at such times.

Fast speeds mean you can escape rough seas by outrunning storms and bad weather.

Cruising cats attain an average speed of 9 knots (10.5mph) while sport cruising cats can reach upwards of 30 knots ( 35mph). Also, performance cruising catamarans boast narrow waterline beams , generous sail plans, and centerboards that make them sail way faster than average cats.

Which Is Safer in a Storm; Catamaran or Monohull?

If comparing similar-sized vessels, a catamaran is much safer in rough seas and storms than a monohull.

This is due to several reasons:

• Catamarans have a larger platform: Because of its large and wide base, a catamaran is more stable and can withstand pounding waves much better than a monohull.
• Catamarans are faster. You are more likely to outrun rough weather in a cat than a monohull since its design enables it to sail much faster. Besides, the higher speed allows you to cover extensive distances in minimal time. This enables you to navigate through heavy sea conditions waters much more quickly or evade them altogether.
• Catamarans are easier to maneuver . Double engines make it easier to maneuver a catamaran in and out of tight spots, such as when getting into a marina or steering across small inland waterways. Monohulls, on the other hand, have only one engine, which could lead to trouble in case of engine failure during a storm.
• Catamarans have less draft. As mentioned earlier, a catamaran will sit much higher on the water than a monohull hence it can sail with ease on shallow waters. During a storm, it has more shelter opportunities and can pull anchor closer to the beach and away from the rough seas.
• Catamarans are not likely to sink. While a capsized monohull would right itself owing to its lead keel, a catamaran wouldn’t. Nonetheless, because of the positive buoyancy, a capsized cat would not sink, which isn’t the case for a monohull. The crew in a capsized catamaran can therefore wait for help onboard the floating vessel.

Are Catamarans Safe for Ocean Crossing?

Catamarans are sea-worthy vessels capable of making long sea passages. Larger catamarans are exceptionally safe for ocean crossing since they have lots of buoyancy and great roll inertia. They can sail through fairly uncomfortable conditions and handle strong winds without taking much of a beating. 

Furthermore, the boats are not likely to capsize even when breaking waves hit them as these merely cause them to surf sideways. 

Lastly, a cat’s ample storage capacity also means that it can carry enough fuel, water, and food for the passage . Hence, you need not worry about running out of your supplies in the middle of the ocean.

Do All Catamarans Perform the Same Way in Rough Seas?

Depending on catamaran design, performance will vary, a small boat (below 40ft) will be slower and react more to waves, a larger catamaran (+45ft) will move faster and be less impacted by heavy seas and strong winds.

In general, a vessel’s seaworthiness boils down to the construction quality, seamanship level, and boat design. 

Nonetheless, high-performance cruising cats can sail windward faster than the best keelboats. Featuring efficient daggerboards, deep rudders, plus less displacement and windage, they deliver a good performance windward in all kinds of weather. 

And since these catamarans are light in weight and contain ample sail plans, you need to pay special attention to your sail choice to maintain safety in all weather conditions.

But not all catamarans behave like high-performance cruising catamarans. Therefore, you need to have a deep understanding of how your boat operates before you set off into the open sea. This is only accomplished through spending time on the water.

Tips on How To Sail Safely in Rough Seas

There are fundamental safety measures as well as storm tactics. These are essential when sailing in any weather, but more so if you get caught up in rough seas. 

• Undergo training. Get sufficient training on basic sailing and what to do in the event of an incident at sea. Basic safety drills are also important, and all crew should know the specific location of all life-saving equipment.
• Find out details about the expected weather. Make sure you are able to get updates while under sail, either through satellite or mobile network.
• Have the right protective equipment. Always have protective gear on board, including life jackets and vests, close at hand. Set up the boat with the appropriate safety lines and attach yourself to the same. Crew members should carry a knife, strobe, and whistle as well.
• Avoid putting your catamaran on the direct path of breaking waves (beam reach). Instead, opt for a course that places both the wind and high waves either ahead or behind the beam. Minimize the chances of a wave crashing across the deck by tacking in relatively smooth water.
• Park your catamaran. If the storm gets too intense, consider parking ( heaving-to ) your cat. This will give the boat some break from the windward pounding.

The specific storm strategies you need to use will crucially depend on the condition of the sea. 

I would recommend you read the book Multihull seamanship ( amazon link ), the graphics are lame but the book is very informational, it walks you through procedures such as heave-to and what to do in case of emergency.

For additional tips on how to maintain the safety of your catamaran in rough seas, watch the video below:

Frequently Asked Questions

Should i run my catamaran straight downwind or angle it away from the waves.

It’s better to run downwind but at a slight angle since this will help increase the effective catamaran length by offering its diagonal distance to the following seas. The slight angle allows the bows to bury less, keeps the hull stable, reduces the risk of pitchpoling, and also makes it much easier to follow the sea.

How Much Sail Should I Use in Rough Seas?

When facing rough conditions it’s best to go with a minimal sail area (such as a storm jib). Minimal sail helps to calm the vessel, which makes autopiloting relatively easier. This means that you might not need to handle the helm, leaving the autopilot to do its work. 

Does a Catamaran’s Length Affect Its Ability To Survive Rough Seas?

Yes, it does. A catamaran with a long waterline handles high winds and towering waves better than a small cat. The easier motion facilitates crew maneuvers, while the high boat weight increases resistance to tossing and rolling caused by the wind and waves. In addition, the higher speed helps in running from the storm.

What´s the perfect size cat for ocean sailing?

What Can Cause a Catamaran to Capsize?

A huge wave to the catamaran’s beam or surfing down a wave and burying the bows in the next wave, making it frontflip or pitchpole. To better understand catamaran capsize I suggest you read my scientific approach to understanding capsizing here .

Final Thoughts

Sailing in rough seas is a true test of seamanship. I used to be afraid of the seas, now it has become my friend. Maybe it will be the same for you! Take care!

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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Crewed Yacht Charters and Seasickness. Is it a big problem?

One of the questions we’re very frequently asked here at yacht.vacations is – ‘what about seasickness’? This is a big concern for many potential charterers, whether for themselves or another member of the group. And understandably so. There’s nothing more unpleasant than stepping foot on a boat and feeling the unwelcome wave of nausea and dizziness hit as you take to the waves. If you’ve experienced this phenomenon before, the chances are you’re not keen to repeat it.

If this is something you’ve been unfortunate enough to experience first-hand, or if you’re trying to get a group together for a charter and have the task of reassuring some reluctant guests, we’re here to help. 

Some of the most popular sailing destinations in the world have risen to their acclaimed positions as a result of their perfect sailing conditions. In the Caribbean, particularly around the USVI and BVI, the calm waters and light winds draw sailors from across the globe to take advantage of the smooth sailing. This means that there are very few waves, and you’re far less likely to experience sea-sickness. Similarly in the Mediterranean (depending on when you charter), there are many excellent destinations to choose from which offer calm seas and very pleasant sailing. 

The Right Boat

If you suffer from sea-sickness, we whole-heartedly recommend chartering a catamaran for your vacation. Fortunately, these happen to be the most popular option for crewed charters too! Catamarans have two hulls, which creates a very stable and balanced sailing platform. These vessels are far less likely to tilt or roll on the waves, and are a much better option for any guests who may be prone to a little nausea. 

Another option worth considering is a large motoryacht with gyro stabilizers on board. These smart devices claim to reduce roll by 70-90%, making for a much smoother sail, even on rougher seas. Your yacht.vacations consultation will be able to advise on which of our many motoryachts have these clever contraptions fitted. 

Time On Land

Another common misconception regarding charter vacations is that there’s no opportunity to set foot on dry land! Whether you’re chartering bareboat, or all-inclusive, your charter experience and itinerary is totally custom. You can spend as much or as little time on board your yacht as you wish. The likelihood is, if you’re exploring a new paradise in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, or another exotic destination, your curiosity will draw you ashore at least once a day. With so many beaches, villages and landscapes to explore, plus cultural sites and nightlife, you needn’t feel confined to your boat. 

Furthermore, many of those who are prone to a little seasickness often find that it’s miraculously cured once they’re in the water! Your yacht will be equipped with many water toys and floating devices to choose from, so you can also enjoy time in the water or simply lounging on the surface. 

Tips and Remedies

If you’re still not convinced, remember there are various remedies and recommendations that seasoned sailors can offer when it comes to sea-sickness. 

The first tip is to spend as much time above deck as possible. With the majority of charter yachts available, all of the communal spaces are above deck anyway – salon, kitchen, outer deck, flybridge, etc… The only spaces usually found below deck are the cabins and bathrooms. Many of our clients who’ve experienced seasickness on ferries or short boat rides previously, have reported back to us that they actually enjoyed the sensation of being gently rocked to sleep by the waves! 

Another tip is to avoid using binoculars. The chances are, if you’re on a charter vacation, you’ll be maintaining a close distance to the coast, so all of the beautiful scenery and sights will be visible to the naked eye anyway. It’s rare to need to peer through binoculars on a charter yacht – the very idea of these boats is to get you as close to the action as possible. 

It’s also important to remember to stay hydrated. Many of us enjoy sipping on a beer or cocktail (or three) when on vacation! But remembering to also stay topped up with water will help you to feel much better when out at sea. 

If you’re really suffering, there are also various medications and natural remedies available. Your pharmacist will be able to recommend Dramamine or Bonine, or special wristbands designed to work with pressure points on the body. Some prefer to use more herbal approaches such as ginger. Remember, your crew will be well experienced in dealing with these types of issues, and will be on hand to support and advise should a guest begin to feel unwell. 

Talk To Us!

If you have any remaining concerns about wellness on board your charter yacht, or relating to yachting in general, please don’t hesitate to contact us ! Your yacht.vacations consultant is waiting to discuss and advice on any sailing-related issue. 

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Dealing with seasickness

Recognizing the symptoms:, precautions and prevention of seasickness:, tips from my mom:, remedies for seasickness:.