Sea sickness or motion sickness, is the downside of boating in saltwater. Although not a lot of people are prone to this, there are times when the weather is windy, and large and strong waves can rock the boat hard making it feel like riding a theme park ride for ages for everyone on board. People with weak stomachs will be victimized by seasickness. This sickness is no picnic, feeling nauseous and dizzy can make a person feel weak and awful. While there are aids and medication to alleviate the symptoms, the only thing that could heal someone suffering from this sickness is to get on land and a stable, unmoving ground. If you feel like you’re one of those people who has a weak stomach and you will be boating on the ocean for a long period, do the following tips to prevent the symptoms of motion sickness and enjoy your time out on the water:

Position Yourself Wisely

Your position on your Quintrex Renegade boat can influence how much motion you experience. If you’re staying near the sides, the rocking motion is stronger. If you’re staying at the back, the fumes from the outboard motor can exacerbate your nausea. Being closer to the centre of the boat, where motion is less pronounced, can help. Position a seat on the deck where you have a clear view of the horizon and stare straight ahead.  If your boat has a cabin, avoid staying in those areas as the lack of visibility can exacerbate motion sickness.

When you're in motion, your inner ear senses the movement, but your eyes may see a different picture. This can cause feelings of nausea. Because of this, avoid reading a book or staring at your phone for long periods. Alleviate the motion sickness symptoms by maintaining a steady gaze on the horizon. By finding a fixed point on the horizon and focusing your attention there, you can achieve visual stability and reduce the sensation of motion sickness.

Stale or confined air can also exacerbate feelings of nausea. Ensure that there is proper ventilation on the boat, and if possible, spend time on the deck where you can access fresh air.

Stay Well-Hydrated and Eat Light Meals

Dehydration can worsen symptoms of motion sickness. Ensure you are well-hydrated before embarking on your boating adventure and continue to drink water throughout the journey. Avoid milk as they can trigger your nausea when you’re in motion and avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration. Drink beverages that are rich in electrolytes so you won’t have to feel thirsty.

Eating heavy, spicy, or greasy meals before boating can increase the likelihood of motion sickness because your tummy is heavy with food. It takes time for your digestive system to digest your food properly. Motion sickness can mess up your system and the likelihood of seeing the meal that you ate is high. Instead, opt for light, easily digestible snacks or meals. Ginger candies, ginger tea, chicken broth, mint tea, crackers, dry cereals, and breadsticks have anti-nausea properties and help you feel better.

Use Motion Sickness Medications

Over-the-counter motion sickness medications, such as antihistamines, hyoscine, and antiemetics, can be effective in preventing or alleviating symptoms. Consult with a healthcare professional ahead of time to determine the most suitable option for you, and take the medication as directed.

Try Acupressure Bands

Acupressure bands, which apply pressure to specific points on the wrist, are designed to reduce motion sickness symptoms. While the scientific evidence supporting their efficacy is limited, some individuals find relief using these bands.

Focus on Breathing

Deep, slow breathing can help manage feelings of nausea. Concentrate on taking slow, deliberate breaths, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. This technique can help calm your nervous system and help reduce the intensity of motion sickness symptoms.

Lay Down and Rest

If symptoms persist, find a quiet and comfortable spot to lie down. Closing your eyes and resting can provide relief and help your body adjust to the motion. Ensure you are located in a secure location where you won’t fall or roll over when the boat is in motion. Buy comfy cushions and blankets beforehand so your boat can be a cosier space to lie on. You can buy these items in your local marine shops. Take your medication and have a few sips of water.

If Nothing Helps, Let the Nausea Sickness Your Body

It’s a given that you can’t help feeling anxious and upset if you’re feeling nauseous. If none of the things mentioned above helped you, it’s a sign that your body wants you to vomit. When this occurs, allow your body to barf. We know this is gross and the feeling of vomiting feels like your stomach and throat is on fire but vomiting expels contents in your stomach that’s making you sick. When you vomit, your brain releases endorphins and adrenaline that’s why after you throw up, you feel relieved. Now you don’t need to worry about getting nauseous since you already chucked out the contents of your tummy.

Make sure to wash your mouth with water to wash off the icky taste (to prevent your gag reflex from dry heaving) and have little sips of water to hydrate yourself. If your tummy has settled down, nibble some bland foods to replace all the nourishment you lost when you vomited.

With repeated exposure to boating, some individuals find that they develop "sea legs" and become more resistant to motion sickness. Gradually increasing your time on the water and exposing yourself to varying sea conditions may help your body acclimate.