seasick patches for cruise

Do you really need a motion sickness patch for your cruise?

You've boarded your first cruise and spy lots of your shipmates sporting a patch behind their ears. Why are they wearing this? Does it improve their cruise experience? What do all those people know that you don't?

Those little circular patches you see behind the ears of so many cruisers are most likely a prescription drug called scopolamine transdermal system. It is often prescribed for situational nausea and vomiting after surgery. However, it is also useful for motion sickness, as you might experience on board cruise ships. The medication contained in the patch is slowly released into the wearer's system over the course of three days. It works through the central nervous system to calm the digestive system.

Now that you know, you might develop a case of FOMO. Should you have asked your doctor for patches for your cruise? When I mentioned the patches to my primary care physician (a fellow cruiser), her response was quick and a bit snarky, "What is up with everybody thinking they need scopolamine patches to go on a cruise?"

She explained that she sees many people with no history of motion sickness who want them. However, she cautions they aren't for everyone.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

After talking with my doctor, I did further research on prescription motion sickness patches for cruising. Here's what I learned about whether you really need that scopolamine patch — or if you're better off without it.

You might not need a patch to weather your cruise

Motion sickness is a possibility on a cruise ship, but don't assume you will experience it on your sailing. Most large ships are stabilized to prevent excessive motion, and the average cruise (especially to popular destinations in the Bahamas and the Caribbean) takes place in calm waters.

Also, some people are more prone to seasickness than others. If you frequently ride roller coasters and don't have trouble on airplanes no matter how turbulent, or if you can sit in the backseat of a car on a winding mountain road, you probably aren't prone to feeling nauseated from movement.

For many people who do feel ill on a cruise, motion sickness is a limited-time event. It might hit you during the first 24 hours of sailing, quickly calming down as your nervous system adapts to the motion. Symptoms might only affect you when the exact set of circumstances appears that disturbs your equilibrium enough to cause nausea. They may then disappear as soon as the ship rights itself, so to speak, or when you head to the more stable lower decks and gaze out at the horizon.

In this case, too, wearing a patch for the duration of the cruise is not warranted.

Still, there are some people who will become ill just reading about rocking ships or turbulent flights and are extremely nervous about heading out to sea on a boat. If that's you, patches for the duration of any cruise are something you might consider.

Related: How to avoid seasickness on your next cruise

Not everyone can use scopolamine patches

The active medication in the patches can interact with some other medications. It's a long list and includes common over-the-counter medications like Benadryl. You, your doctor and your pharmacist should carefully evaluate your potential for medication conflicts if you plan to use motion sickness patches during your cruise.

Also, patches aren't the only seasickness remedy you can try. Some people use over-the-counter medication tablets, such as Dramamine or Bonine. You can also try alternatives to medicine like acupressure bands for your wrists or settle your stomach with foods such as green apples, ginger ale or ginger candies, and crackers.

Related: How to avoid getting sick on a cruise

The patches can have surprising side effects

A motion-sickness patch may look innocuous. However, it is still a prescription medication and can have adverse side effects not to be taken lightly. Consider the possibility of ill effects before you commit to the patch on your next cruise.

For example, I met a woman who put on a patch during her first cruise. She discovered several hours later, as she was putting makeup on that the pupil in one of her eyes was fully dilated — the eye on the side where her patch was placed. She thought she was having a stroke. She contacted her physician, who advised her to immediately remove the patch. The dilation subsided, and all was well for the remainder of her cruise.

She had not experienced any seasickness before using the patch nor after removing it. She had simply taken a proactive approach, just in case. Her medical chart now includes her reaction with a note that she cannot use scopolamine. She does, however, intend to cruise again and hopes her lack of motion sickness on her first cruise will hold true in the future.

Other side effects of the patches include dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness and even disorientation. Also, a big problem for many cruisers is that you should not consume alcohol while wearing the patch. Doing so intensifies the side effects, especially drowsiness and dizziness.

Related: Do cruise ships have doctors, nurses, medical centers or hospitals?

Patches can be useful in rough seas

Although ship captains aim to avoid dangerously rough seas, cruise ships are designed to handle far larger waves than one might think. That means choppy rides may occur. You'll know rough seas are ahead when you see motion-sickness bags strategically placed in the stairwells.

Scopolamine patches can be useful on any cruise with the potential for large waves, such as hurricane season sailings, transatlantic crossings and cruises through notoriously rough waters, such as the Drake Passage on the way to Antarctica. If you're nervous about feeling ill during any of these sailings, that is the perfect time to talk to your doctor about a prescription for patches.

Related: What to do if you find yourself on a wildly tilting cruise ship

If you are prone to motion sickness in general, talk to your doctor about prescription patches. My physician said she wouldn't have a problem prescribing the patches for someone going on their first cruise if they don't have conflicting medications or conditions and understand that there are side effects.

There are a few itineraries and seasons for which even the most sea-hardy among us might proactively take along a supply of patches. It's better to be prepared and not need them than to suffer through a rough ride without any relief.

If you have successfully worn scopolamine patches in the past without side effects, consider only wearing one the first 24 hours of the cruise or when rough seas are expected.

Bottom line

If you've never cruised but generally don't experience motion sickness, don't assume you'll need seasickness medication for your first sailing. You might be surprised that a cruise ship's ride is much smoother than you thought.

However, if you're worried motion-induced nausea may sideline you during your cruise, talk to your doctor about the best motion sickness medications before you sail.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
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The Motion Sickness Patch (Transderm-Scop)

What is the motion sickness patch.

How is the patch used?

What are the patch's possible side effects, what are the possible withdrawal symptoms from the transderm-scop patch.

• Read about other motion sickness medications
• Read about the side effects of motion sickness medication
• Manufacturer information about the Transderm Scop

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Motion sickness can put a damper on your cruise experience , but fortunately, there are several effective medications available to help alleviate its symptoms. When it comes to choosing the best motion sickness medicine for cruises, a few options stand out. These include medications, seasickness patches, Sea-Bands, and even specific cabin choices that can help alleviate motion sickness.

It's important to remember that each individual's response to medication or treatment varies. What works best for one person may not be suitable for another. So, when seeking the most effective prevention method, consider your unique needs and reactions. Some cruisers find relief with motion sickness patches, while others prefer home remedies like herbal teas.

Seasickness, while not life-threatening, can put a damper on your cruise enjoyment due to symptoms such as nausea, stomach discomfort, and vomiting. It is believed to result from the visual disorientation caused by being on a moving object (such as a ship), conflicting with our body's natural sense of balance. Regardless of the exact cause, many cruisers are familiar with the unpleasant feeling that rough, rocking seas can bring.

However, seasickness isn't solely triggered by choppy waters. Scientific studies have shown that some individuals experience seasickness due to psychological suggestions – essentially convincing themselves that being on a ship will make them unwell. Conversely, those who can put such concerns out of their minds often have smoother sailing.

Certain people are naturally more prone to motion sickness and may experience it more intensely during rough seas. Medical experts note that seasickness is more common in children and women, while interestingly, children under the age of two appear to be immune. Additionally, older individuals are generally less susceptible.

If you have a history of motion sickness or are concerned about potential symptoms, it's advisable to take preventive measures in advance to enhance your cruise experience.

Drug-Free Options

If you prefer to avoid medications, there are alternative solutions and discussions regarding seasickness remedies. Many passengers find relief by wearing a Sea-Band wristband upon embarkation. This user-friendly, acupressure-inspired device features a plastic bead that applies pressure to the Nei-Kuan pressure point on the inner wrist. It effectively reduces nausea and vomiting without causing any side effects. Sea-Bands are available in sizes for both adults and children and can even be used by pregnant women. You can purchase Sea-Bands without a prescription at major drug stores.

Additionally, some individuals advocate the use of ginger, which studies have shown to alleviate motion sickness-related nausea. Ginger is available in various forms, including powder, tea, pills, and candy. Another remedy involves consuming green apples, which some find helpful for nausea. On certain ships, you may even find green apples and crackers listed on their room service menus.

Drug Remedies

When it comes to remedies for seasickness, one widely recommended option is the Transderm Scop patch. You apply this scopolamine patch behind your ear at least eight hours before potential exposure, and it remains effective for up to three days. Keep in mind that you'll need a prescription for this preventive measure. While it can be effective, it may also lead to side effects like dry mouth, blurred vision, drowsiness, and dizziness.

For over-the-counter solutions to prevent or treat seasickness, you can consider medications such as Dramamine, Meclizine (commonly known as Bonine), or diphenhydramine (commonly referred to as Benadryl). Some cruise ships provide these medications freely, and you can also find them in the ship's sundries shop. It's important to note that the most common side effect of Bonine and Benadryl is drowsiness, and alcohol can intensify this effect.

For stronger and more effective prescription medications, you'll need to consult a physician. While the ship's doctor can provide them, this often involves the cost of an office visit in addition to the medication expense. Prescription options include Promethazine and ephedrine, which, when taken together, can offer rapid relief but may also lead to side effects like drowsiness. Another alternative is suppositories, administered by the ship's physician, which can be highly effective for some individuals.

More Tips & Tricks

To adapt to life on a cruise ship, consider spending ample time on the open deck, using the horizon as a reference point to maintain your balance.

Another option is booking an outside cabin located in the ship's middle, which is the natural balance point. Having a window will also provide a consistent view of the horizon.

Choosing port-intensive cruises with fewer days at sea is a good strategy to minimize the time spent in rough waters. It's best to avoid itineraries known for rough conditions, such as the Bass Strait between Australia's mainland and Tasmania or the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand. North Atlantic crossings and the Caribbean during hurricane season (June through November) should also be approached with caution.

Opting for larger, modern ships is a wise choice. Most of today's cruise ships, with sizes exceeding 100,000 tons, are equipped with stabilizers that help ensure a smoother voyage.

Keep in mind that individuals respond differently to various remedies. It's up to you to conduct some research and experimentation to find what works best.

If you or a family member are susceptible to seasickness, it's important to be well-prepared. Ensure you have all the necessary items in your medical kit, as there's no certainty that specific items or over-the-counter medications will be accessible on the ship. In case of severe motion sickness symptoms, reach out to the ship's medical team to explore safe remedies

Finding the best motion sickness medicine for your cruise is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage. Whether you opt for prescription medications or over-the-counter remedies, it's crucial to prioritize your comfort and well-being while at sea. And while you're making preparations for your next cruise adventure, don't forget to turn to Cruisebound , your trusted online platform for booking cruises and discovering the best cruise deals. 

How to Prevent Seasickness on a Cruise: 10 Effective Remedies

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If you’re going on a cruise and concerned that you might get seasick, you’re not alone. Asking “how to prevent seasickness on a cruise” , is one of the most common questions people have when planning a cruise.

After all, getting seasick really could ruin your vacation. While it’s less likely to happen on today’s large, modern cruise ships, I can tell you from personal experience, it does still happen.

The good news is that there are effective remedies for motion sickness, and these work very well on a cruise. 

In this post, I share 10 ways to prevent, treat and ideally avoid seasickness altogether while cruising. I’ve included recommendations for seasickness medications, as well as natural remedies that really work.

As well, we’ll go through some frequently asked questions about how to manage seasickness on cruise ships. With these tips, you’ll be prepared to deal with the motion of the ocean, and prevail!

Seasickness on a Cruise

First, let’s go through what to expect if you do get seasick while on a cruise.

What are the symptoms of seasickness?

The symptoms of seasickness on a cruise can include feeling dizzy or having a headache. You may have also feel nauseous, have stomach cramps and even vomit.

For me, early symptoms of motion sickness include lightheadedness and a mild queasy feeling. I try and catch it at this early point, and after more than 20 cruises, this has worked for me.

The tips that I share below will help you to manage any seasickness symptoms.

Why does motion sickness happen on a cruise ship?

How come people get motion sickness on a cruise? Motion sickness happens due to repeated or continuous movement that affects our inner ear and sense of balance. As the cruise ship sails, some people can be affected by this motion.

Seasickness is another way to motion sickness, but on a cruise ship. You may also have heard the expression, “mal de mer”, which is French for sickness of the seas.

How likely are you to get seasick on a cruise ship?

Even though concerns about getting seasick on a cruise is a very common worry, especially for first time cruisers , most people will be fine. Modern cruise ships are built with stability and comfort in mind, and have stabilizers which are used, especially in rough seas.

However, you may feel some motion or slight vibration while on a cruise. I mention this as we were a bit surprised to find this out on our first cruise.

So many people said “you won’t feel the ship move” . They mean well, but on some cruises you’ll feel more movement then others, so it’s best to be prepared. 

In some cases, the ship can hit rougher seas and high winds, and there will be some rocking. However, let me assure you that a large cruise ship will feel nothing like the movement on a small boat or even a ferry.

How to Prevent Motion Sickness on a Cruise

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One of the best ways to deal with seasickness on a cruise, is to prevent and avoid it if at all possible. These 10 seasickness prevention tips are ones that have worked for us, as well as many avid cruisers and crew. 

1. Pick the right cruise cabin location

Before we get into what seasickness medications work best and some other tips and tricks, we should talk about cruise cabin locations.

To prevent seasickness, be sure that you choose the best stateroom location possible. If you’re new to cruising and unsure how you’ll feel, choose a mid-ship location.

These are the most desirable cabins because there will be less movement in the middle of the ship. Whether you choose an inside cabin , or a balcony cabin , try and choose a cabin that is as center as possible.

If a mid-ship cabin isn’t available, then opt for an aft cabin  or mid-aft stateroom. If at all possible, try to avoid a forward cabin , as many cruise passengers report feeling more motion in this location. 

A travel agent can help you to pick the best cabin for you, and look out for any other cabins to avoid .

2. Pick a “calm” cruise itinerary 

While the seas can be unpredictable, there are some cruise itineraries that generally have calmer seas, than others. If you’re concerned about getting seasick, avoid trans-Atlantic crossings and other itineraries where the seas can be fierce.

Your travel agent will be able to help you navigate the possibilities (pun intended), as a rule of thumb, the Western Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico tend to have more stable seas.

3. Green Apples

Would you like to know a cruise tip that really works to get over seasickness on a cruise? Eat a granny smith or green apple.

This has long been a favorite crew and passenger tip. In our experience, it really does help.

Often, eating a green apple will settle the stomach if you start to feel nauseous due to seasickness. Apparently, the pectin in green apples helps to neutralize acid in the stomach, and the natural sugar helps settle the stomach

You’ll find green apples in the buffet, so it’s a good idea to take a couple back to your room, in case you need them later on in the cruise.

4. Ginger candies

Another natural remedy for dealing with motion sickness while cruising is ginger. If you don’t want to eat raw ginger, you can buy ginger candies or even dried, sugar coated natural ginger.

Some cruise lines, such as Cunard , even give out ginger in the evening with dinner when the seas are rough.

While I prefer not to eat raw ginger, I always bring some ginger candies and usually find them very effective in preventing seasickness before it starts.

Recommended: Ginger candies – organic and gluten free (Amazon)

5. Bonine or Dramamine

An over the counter medication like Bonine or Dramamine, can be highly effective to deal with symptoms of seasickness, so you can enjoy your cruise. 

In our experience, worked very well, alleviating seasickness symptoms without drowsiness.

Make sure to bring a pack or two your toiletry bag or cruise first aid kit . This way, if you need it you won’t have to hope the shop is still open on the cruise ship. 

Recommended: Bonine Motion Sickness prevention tablets (see Amazon reviews & price here)

6. Seabands

A favorite cruise essential for many, seabands are wristbands that alleviate motion sickness symptoms. They work with acupressure buttons to prevent symptoms of seasickness and many cruisers have very good results. Seabands are natural and contain no medication, plus, they’re reusable.

If you think that you may be prone to motion sickness, it’s a good idea to take along seabands for both adults and children , in case.

  Recommended: Seabands (check on Amazon for variety packs)

7. Motion Sickness Patch/Scopolamine

If you’re prone to motion sickness, scopolamine patches, which are placed behind the ear, are very effective in preventing seasickness.

They are a preventative treatment, and should be used ideally before symptoms begin, and need to be changed every 3 days. They may only be available by prescription, so talk with your doctor to see if they’re right for you.

There are also non-prescription seasickness prevention patches available, that many use and find effective. Check out the information and reviews to learn more.

8. Acupuncture

Another preventative treatment for motion sickness on a cruise is acupuncture . An alternative treatment, it’s effectiveness isn’t conclusive. Anecdotal reports suggest many patients have had good results.

My mother-in-law, who also suffers from vertigo periodically, uses acupuncture before she goes on a cruise. I’ve been on cruises with her, and have seen how it definitely worked for her. She was well and unaffected, even while others were swaying and turning green during an evening of very rough seas.

If you already use acupuncture, you may want to ask your practitioner if he or she thinks it will help to prevent seasickness on your cruise. As always, please do check with your physician.

9. Keep hydrated

It may sound simple, but keeping hydrated by drinking a lot of water will help prevent feelings of seasickness. While on a cruise you may be getting too much sun and even drinking too many alcoholic drinks, which can lead to becoming dehydrated. 

By keeping hydrated, your body will be at it’s best and less prone to nausea, headaches, dizziness and upset stomach. It’s also helpful to avoid very fatty or spicy food.

Cruise tip – Bring along a refillable water bottle , to stay hydrated on your cruise.

10. Get fresh air

If you suddenly start to feel unwell, with symptoms dizziness and nausea, try and get fresh air as soon as possible. A good place to sit is on the Lido deck, near the mid-ship pool. This location, in the open space and with a sea breeze, is probably the best place to grab a green apple and wait for symptoms to subside.

There is also advice to look at the horizon. This may work for some, however in our experience, if there are large waves, this may do more harm than good.

A word of caution – often taking medication to remedy or even prevent motion sickness symptoms as soon as they start is most effective.

Best Motion Sickness Medication for a Cruise

As a recap, these are the most effective and recommended seasickness medications and natural remedies for a cruise (all Amazon links).

Seabands (for adults)

Seabands (for children)

Dramamine (long lasting nausea relief)

Dramamine for kids (see choices on Amazon)

Ginger candies

Motion sickness patches

Watch our YouTube video below for more tips on preventing seasickness while cruising

Recap: How to Prevent Seasickness on a Cruise

A common concern for new cruisers, is how to avoid and prevent getting seasick on a cruise. In this post, we went over what to expect on a cruise, and how likely it is to feel symptoms of motion sickness on a modern cruise ship.

We also shared 10 effective tips for preventing and dealing with seasickness on a cruise. The remedies include both seasickness medication and natural remedies, that have been shown to be useful and helpful for cruisers.

Don’t forget to pack some seasickness medication or prevention treatments to bring along on your cruise vacation.

Have you ever been seasick on a cruise? What tips, medications or treatments did you find worked best?

Happy cruising!

P.S. If you enjoyed this post and found it helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

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15 Comments

I read this article prior to going on a cruise to the Bahamas and found some of these tips very helpful. When searching for an acupressure band I came across NoMo Nausea at CVS. It is an silicone acupressure wristband that is infused with peppermint essential oils. I have tried sea bands before and while they provided slight nausea relief for me, I found the peppermint scent combined with the acupressure to work more effectively when reducing my sea sickness. Hope this helps for others who also experience seasickness!

Hi Juliette,

Firstly, thanks so much for reading this and then taking the time to come back and add your suggestion. That’s really interesting – I’ll have to keep an eye out for a seaband combined with that scent.

I’m sure your personal suggestion will be helpful to someone.

Hope you enjoyed your cruise!

Hello! Thank you for all the great information.. Another thing that helps with seas sickness is lime. Slicing and smelling the lime really works. I learned this on a snorkeling trip in Mexico. I want feeling well from all the bobbing in the water and was given lime by the locals and in a short time I was feeling myself again. On my last cruise I asked my waiter to bring me lime slices as the dining room was in the front of the ship and soon the entire table was enjoying the lovely sent of lime and feeling great!

Thanks so much for this! Great info!

Glad the info was helpful Becky. Have a great cruise!

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I love using Motioneaze oil. You rub it behind your ear and it really works! Expensive on the ship but not too bad on Amazon or at CVS.

Thanks Tricia. I’ve never heard of it or used it, but that sounds great.Great tip to pre-buy rather than get it on the ship.

I appreciate you taking the time to comment 🙂

Ilana and Tricia – I experienced fairly serious motion sickness on our 2nd sea day — I wasn’t the only one, as the ship staff stocked those “special bags” everywhere.. Nevertheless, I was wearing seabands, I took Dramamine; tried all sorts of remedies and preventives; and nothing worked all day until my friend gave me Motioneaze. Within minutes of applying this behind my ears, I felt immensely better. (It’s possible that the seas were finally calming by then!). Thank you for great posts!!!

Thanks for sharing the recommendation!

Tricia,, I have never heard of this, going to check it out. Thanks so much!

My understanding is that it is good to look at horizon so your eyes and ears “agree”. It works for me.

That’s awesome and good advice. That works for me, but my husband will feel more sick. I have a feeling it’s because the wobbly feeling has already set in.

Thanks Patty for the comment – I know it will be helpful to others 🙂

Dramamine now makes a “Non-Drowsy Naturals” version of their motion sickness pills. I have always found that regular Dramamine and Bonine make me feel very sleepy (even the non-drowsy formulas). However, I was able to take the Dramamine Naturals version (made with ginger) and it worked just as quickly on the motion sickness and did not make me drowsy at all.

That’s great to know Melissa. Thanks so much for sharing how well this worked for you. I love ginger so perhaps I’ll try it next cruise 🙂

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5 top-rated products on Amazon that people swear by for preventing seasickness and motion sickness

The   Insider Picks   team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Nothing can ruin a day out on the boat faster than a nasty bout of seasickness. The same thing goes for inescapable train, bus, and car rides — the kinds where you have no control over when and where you can stop or for how long.

Instead of suffering in silence — or worse, in a very loud way that may involve a leak-proof bag and a discontented audience — you may want to try one or more of the solutions that other Amazon shoppers seem to really like. 

Below, we've rounded up some of the best-rated and reviewed options for dealing with seasickness or motion sickness so you can enjoy your travels and adventures this summer. 

Sea-Band the Original Wristband for Adults

$7.70, available on Amazon

Rating: 3.9 stars out of 1,449 reviews

Though it does come with some mixed reviews, many Amazon shoppers find these acupressure bracelets to be effective at eliminating motion sickness for everything from boating to nausea-inducing virtual reality video game headsets. Many recommend wearing one on each wrist, so it's most economical to buy the two-pack listed above. 

MQ Motion Sickness Patch

$7.59, available on Amazon

Rating: 4.3 stars out of 967 reviews

This natural remedy patch is meant to be worn behind the ear and is said to help ease the gastrointestinal tract to prevent nausea and vomiting. Amazon customers seem to find them extremely effective, though you should note that the seller does not recommend them for pregnant women. They're also not waterproof, so if you plan to go swimming, they're not the best option for you. 

Reliefband for Motion and Morning Sickness

$94.99, available on Amazon

Rating: 4.1 stars out of 480 reviews

The Reliefband stimulates a nerve on the bottom side of the wrist that prevents nausea and motion sickness with no lag time. You can choose five different intensities depending on how severe your discomfort is. Many swear by this for dealing with morning sickness caused by pregnancy, but plenty of reviewers also explained how life-changing it was for eliminating their regular experiences with motion sickness. One Amazon shopper warned, though, that it's not a good option for anyone with severe sensitivity to metals. 

Rugby Travel Sickness Chewable Meclizine Tablets

$8.50, available on Amazon

Rating: 4.5 stars out of 458 reviews

Meclizine is an antihistamine that's commonly used to prevent and treat nausea and motion sickness. Though there are plenty of other brand name versions you can buy, this generic version is a favorite among Amazon customers because its cheaper. Just keep in mind that it does not mix well with alcohol and can cause serious interactions. We recommend consulting your doctor or doing some research on how it might interact with any medications you take before purchasing. 

Dramamine Motion Sickness Relief Original Formula

$8.54, available on Amazon

Rating: 4.4 stars out of 390 reviews

The generic name for Dramamine is dimenhydrinate, and, similar to meclizine, it's an antihistamine used to treat motion sickness, nausea, and dizziness. The most major difference is the price, and the fact that Dramamine tends to kick in faster than meclizine. Both can cause slight drowsiness, so keep that in mind if you plan to drive or operate machinery.

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Fight Off Nausea With the Best Sea Sickness Medicines

If you're going on a cruise, seasickness can be a major problem. There are many preventative measures you can take to mitigate this issue including wearing an eye patch to reduce visual stimulus, staying hydrated, and using ginger supplements, but sometimes these aren't enough. If you want to enjoy your trip to the fullest, you need sea sickness medication.

These medicines help reduce the symptoms of nausea and vomiting while calming your stomach, making it easier for your body to cope with any movement that may occur while sailing at sea. We’ve compiled a list of some of the great sea sickness medicines of 2024 that can help with your next trip at sea.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Dramamine Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Amazing Flavor: Bonine Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Great Value: Rugby Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Most Versatile: Sea-Band Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Budget-Friendly: Equate Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• 1 Types of Sea Sickness Medicines
• 2 Prescription medicines
• 3 Over-the-counter medicines
• 4 Homeopathic sea sickness medicines
• 5 Tips for Using Sea Sickness Medicines Effectively
• 6 Avoid looking in the opposite direction
• 7 Look outside the window
• 8 Switch places
• 9 Get some fresh air
• 10 Distract yourself
• 11 Pick your seat carefully
• 12 Eat healthy food before traveling

Can I use an over-the-counter antihistamine?

Can i use any motion sickness medicines to keep sea sickness at bay, do sea sickness medicines actually work, related reviews, finest sea sickness medicine of 2024 reviewed in detail, best overall.

Dramamine Sea Sickness Medicine

Dramamine Sea Sickness Medicine is the number one doctor-recommended medicine that combines the clinically-tested ginger dosage with non-drowsy active ingredients to soothe an upset stomach quickly, so you can enjoy your cruise without any worries. Infused with natural ginger, this sea sickness medicine helps prevent nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness. 

Free from artificial colors and flavors, it’s safe for children and is non-addictive, making it a good option for long-term use. This sea sickness medicine comes in tablet form, so you can just swallow it with some water. With its safe formula and amazing results, this sea sickness medicine has earned the top spot on our list. 

• Provides fast relief without any side effects
• Made with natural ginger 
• Contain 36 capsules per pack
• Some may not like the ginger taste

Amazing Flavor

Bonine Sea Sickness Medicine

Don’t let motion sickness ruin your trip! Instead, consider taking Bonine Sea Sickness Medicine. Formulated with meclizine hydrochloride, a safe and effective antihistamine, this medicine mitigates the effects of vomiting, nausea, and vertigo. Because it causes minimal drowsiness, you can even use it before road trips or flights. 

This sea sickness medicine works within an hour and offers motion sickness relief for up to 24 hours so you can keep your wits about you even if the waves start to get rough. Suitable for both kids and adults, this sea sickness medicine won’t make you drowsy or cause headaches. It comes in chewable tablets and has a fruity flavor, so it’s easy for anyone to take.

• Offers up to 24 hours of relief
• Safe for kids 12 years and older
• Comes in a fruity raspberry flavor
• Might cause dry mouth

Great Value

Rugby Sea Sickness Medicine

The Rugby Sea Sickness Medicine is the perfect addition to your travel first aid kit — whether you’re on the water, flying, or driving cross-country. Featuring 25 mg of meclizine HCL, this sea sickness medicine blocks the action of acetylcholine in the brain, preventing nausea, vomiting, and dizziness while calming the stomach. 

Available in a package of three containers with 100 tablets each, this sea sickness medicine is enough to get you through your next cruise or long plane ride without feeling sick to your stomach. If you’re taking other medication that includes meclizine as one of its ingredients then make sure this sea sickness medicine doesn’t conflict with your current regimen.

• Comes in a pack of three
• Available at an affordable price
• Chewable tablets are easy to take
• Might be a bit bitter

Most Versatile

Sea-Band Sea Sickness Medicine

If you’re looking for a way to combat seasickness, Sea-Band Sea Sickness is your best bet. Made with natural ginger, this sea sickness medicine helps with morning sickness, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and post-operative nausea, so you can get through these difficult moments of life with ease. 

Formulated with non-drowsy ingredients, it won’t cause side effects and can be used before you even feel sick, making it a great preemptive measure! Available in a pack of 24 gummies, this sea sickness medicine comes in convenient packaging, making it easy to carry with you on your next adventure.

• Works immediately for seasickness
• Provides migraine and anxiety relief
• Soothing ginger flavor
• Might wear off quickly

Budget-Friendly

Equate Sea Sickness Medicine

When you’re out on the water, or just traveling by car, train, or plane, it can be hard to keep yourself from feeling sick. But with the Equate Sea Sickness Medicine, you’ll be able to stay upright and alert through it all. Available in a bottle of 100 tablets, each pill contains 50 mg of dimenhydrinate, which works by blocking histamine receptors in your body, helping to relieve nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness.

These tablets are safe and effective, and they come at a price that’s hard to beat. You must follow the directions on the package closely when taking this medication and do not exceed the recommended dosage or use more than one dose at a time without first consulting your doctor.

• Convenient and easy to use
• Safe, fast-acting formula
• Available over the counter
• Great for short trips
• Might be hard to swallow

Buying Guide to Finding Sea Sickness Medicine

While there are prescription medicines that can treat motion sickness, mild to severe episodes can be treated with over-the-counter medicines. But how do you choose the right sea sickness medicine when there are so many options available? We’ve put together this detailed buying guide to simplify your choice so you can pick the perfect sea sickness medicine for your needs.

Types of Sea Sickness Medicines

Prescription medicines.

For many people, prescription scopolamine transdermal strips or pills can effectively treat seasickness. While scopolamine minimizes nausea and headaches, it might not be an ideal choice for those with glaucoma, urinary tract problems, gastrointestinal system issues, or breathing problems.

Over-the-counter medicines

Many people find that they can control or completely eliminate the unpleasantness of sea sickness by taking over-the-counter antihistamines, which you can purchase without a doctor’s consultation or prescription. You shouldn’t take any strong antihistamine before driving because it may cause sleepiness, sore throat, trouble urinating, and impaired vision. Even though these side effects are often mild, they can put your life in danger if you’re driving on your own.

We recommend taking an antihistamine roughly half an hour before boarding a plane or heading out on a cruise if you’re prone to seasickness. The efficacy of the antihistamine is significantly decreased if you wait until you feel nauseous before taking it.

Homeopathic sea sickness medicines

The idea behind homeopathic remedies is that even small doses of medicine might actually help cure the symptoms. Although homeopathy is not well supported by science, many individuals report feeling better after using them. Numerous homeopathic remedies for motion sickness often contain nux vomica, an extract from the nux vomica tree’s nuts. If you’re allergic to nuts, these might not be the ideal choice for you.

Tips for Using Sea Sickness Medicines Effectively

Avoid looking in the opposite direction.

While many people benefit from sea sickness medicines, the greatest therapy is to prevent sea sickness in the first place. Always look the same way you’re moving and avoid sitting on backward-facing seats on boats, trains, or buses.

Look outside the window

For many individuals, looking at a novel, tablet, smartphone, or other stationary objects inside a moving vessel — such as a boat or bus — makes them feel sick. Instead, you should look at the surrounding beauty or turn your eyes to the sky to avoid motion sickness.

Switch places

While some people feel better standing up, others feel better lying down. If you’re unsure which position suits you best, you should try switching positions whenever you can to see if one feels better than another.

Get some fresh air

If you’re traveling on a cruise that offers open-air seating, try to sit there. You can also try moving onto the boat’s deck since fresh air helps prevent sea sickness.

Distract yourself

Try to talk to someone, listen to music, enjoy the view, or meditate to distract yourself from feeling sick.

Pick your seat carefully

Sit in the most stable position possible in your means of transportation if you usually feel sea sick. We recommend avoiding sitting on the lower decks of a cruise ship. You should also avoid the stern of a smaller boat, which may be more stable than the front, but has a pungent fuel smell that may make you feel uncomfortable.

Eat healthy food before traveling

Avoid fatty, acidic, or heavy foods before your travel, and limit your alcohol consumption. Drink water or fizzy beverages to stay hydrated while traveling, which may help control or mitigate your feelings of sea sickness.

People Also Asked

Absolutely, but be sure to choose the medicine wisely. While the majority of healthy people may use over-the-counter antihistamines without any issues, those who have hypertension, thyroid issues, glaucoma, bladder infections, an enlarged prostate, or renal illness should consult a doctor first. 

Traveling on the water may cause more turbulence than traveling on the road or in the air, so it’s best to consult with your pharmacist and choose an over-the-counter medicine that’s known for controlling or treating sea sickness specifically.

Sadly, there is no proven method of treating sea sickness that always works. Although most individuals feel better after using these medicines, some patients get little benefit from them. Numerous research supports the fact that antihistamines provide relief to many people.

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Sea Sickness Patch for Cruisers (1 Box per Person per 7 Day Cruise)

All patches are:, • all natural, • safe and effective, • non-drowsy, • fast acting, • water-proof, • approved for use on children (3 & up), • can be combined with use of alcohol.

Fast Shipping

30-Days Trial

Easy Returns

1. tear the protective layer off the patch, adhere the adhesive layer above the navel or the back of your ears., 2. attach the morning of the cruise and replace patch every 18-24 hours or as necessary..

The only all natural Sea-Sickness remedy recommend by doctors!

Rated 5/5 by 88 + happy customers.

The Most Trusted Sea-Sickness patch

We tried them all and found most sea-sickness patches only cured some of the symptoms of sea-sickness. this sea-sickness patch is the best one that we found especially for the constant swaying motion of cruise ships., these patches have been tested to be more effective than scopolamine, bonine or motion-eaze. they are also one-fifth the price of rx prescribed scopolamine patches., 100% all natural ingredients.

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*each patch lasts 18-24 hours depending on the person. use the chart above to determine how many you will need. , what customers like you are saying, rated 5/5 by 88+ happy customers, getting ready for our cruise, we haven't embarked on our cruise yet but we plan to use our ship-eez, - rory b.

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This was my first time using ship-eez sea sickness patches instead of the prescription ones and they worked amazing, -  robin p., worked great for our family, we had one night on the cruise that was a little rocky. the ship-eez was a big help, -  sue elder.

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We love our sea sickness patch for cruisers and are confident you will too that’s why we’re offering a 30-day, risk-free trial. if you’re not satisfied, we’ll gladly issue a full refund in accordance with our return & refund policy, customer reviews.

I never get seasick on these!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Had high winds for 24 hrs. Got sea sick once Had 55 mph cross winds for a few hours. Really big swells.

Went on a 7 day cruise with rough seas and ship eez worked great!! So thankful I bought it.

No side effects and definitely no motion sickness.

Worked great for me and my husband. Also have enough for my next cruise!

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Seasick Patch

By loving2cruise , July 13, 2022 in Ask a Cruise Question

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loving2cruise

I will be traveling with someone who gets motion sickness in the car.

It will be her 1st cruise, and she would like to know if the little bandaid looking patch (that I have seen some others wear behind their ear..on a cruise) really works.

I am fortunate that I don't get seasick, and don' need Bonine, or the patch, so I could not answer her question.

Has anyone here used that patch to prevent sea sickness?  Does it really work?

Thanks in advance

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island lady

Many years ago, being prone to motion sickness...I elected to use the patch just before boarding my very first cruise.   

Within hours I had dry mouth, was dizzy, nauseous, and felt all over weird.  Took the patch off and was fine in a couple of hours.  

40+ years of cruising later, have never used it again....and am fine on each cruise.  

FYI for your friend.  

SimplyAlbert

I get motion sick easily and the patch did not work well for me.  I take Bonine which works great.  I start taking it the one to two nights before the cruise.  I only take one pill at night before I go to bed.   Depending on the seas and how many ports we go to I don't always have to take it throughout the cruise.

I've used the patch many times and have found it to be very helpful with no side affects.  My wife on the other hand tried it once and got double vision.

hotsauce126

I’m an anesthetist and we use scopolamine patches (the patch you’re talking about) on patients with severe postoperative nausea and vomiting. They work but for some the side effects are significant (drowsiness, dry mouth, dilated pupils if you touch it then touch your eyes). They can also cause confusion in the elderly. I’d say the majority of people do fine with them but it wouldn’t hurt to do a test run

I use meclizine.  Works great, no side effects for me.

I have had the patch for two different surgeries as I told the anesthesiologist that I get sea sick.  I didn't have any side effect from the patch other than dry mouth, but some people have more issues.  I know someone who had to remove it because her vision got so blurry she couldn't see to walk around.  

1 minute ago, hotsauce126 said: I’m an anesthetist and we use scopolamine patches (the patch you’re talking about) on patients with severe postoperative nausea and vomiting. They work but for some the side effects are significant (drowsiness, dry mouth, dilated pupils if you touch it then touch your eyes). They can also cause confusion in the elderly. I’d say the majority of people do fine with them but it wouldn’t hurt to do a test run

Or as my anesthesiologist did just because I told them I get sea sick.  I wake up feeling great from anesthesia.

1 minute ago, BND said: Or as my anesthesiologist did just because I told them I get sea sick.  I wake up feeling great from anesthesia.

A history of motion sickness is an indicator that you’re also prone to ponv so it sounds like the scop patch (or the other iv antiemetics that we give) did the trick

2 minutes ago, hotsauce126 said: A history of motion sickness is an indicator that you’re also prone to ponv so it sounds like the scop patch (or the other iv antiemetics that we give) did the trick

I've had two oral surgeries without the patch and woke up feeling fine.  I just think while I'm prone to sea sickness, I do fine with anesthesia.   I am immediately alert after surgery.  I also had profolol in the er when I disloated my kneecap, ankle and fractured my fibula so they could put everything back in place and had no issues with it either.  

1 hour ago, SimplyAlbert said: I get motion sick easily and the patch did not work well for me.  I take Bonine which works great.  I start taking it the one to two nights before the cruise.  I only take one pill at night before I go to bed.   Depending on the seas and how many ports we go to I don't always have to take it throughout the cruise.

This is what I do also!!  Works great

My wife is very prone to motion sickness and on our first cruise, brought a bag full of meds.  She never used them.  She still takes some along just in case, but even when we've been in some rough seas, she was fine.  I think with her, a lot of it is visual - she can't read text in the car, but she scroll through FB while riding.  

Sunshine3601

I have heard that sea bands work great too!    

Jerseygirl1416

When I started cruising I assumed I would get motion sickness so I wore the patch. I had terrible side effects from it including brain zaps. I don’t think you’re supposed to drink alcohol while using but I did. One cruise I decided I’d just bring them and see if I needed them. I didn’t get any sea sickness without them and have continued to cruise without any motion sickness and using no medication. I’d tell your friend to bring the patches but start with the Bonine to see if it’s enough.

OnTheJourney

I hate meclizine. All that stuff makes me drowsy despite what it might say on the label indicating otherwise. I use and am a firm believer in wrist ("sea") bands that use acupuncture to avoid the most unpleasant sensations associated with motion sickness. Easy to take on and off, NO side effects whatsoever. No Rx needed. They work for me. The last cruise we did was the only time I hardly needed them - that was in the Med. Sailing was smooth as glass except for one night. I've even worn them in the house anytime I might feel a bit nauseous. Perhaps worth researching. From some of what was mentioned in this thread about patches, I'm sort of glad I never experimented with them. What works for one might not for everybody - same as anything else.

Best of luck and wishing you SMOOTH seas. 

Wrist bands work great!

1 hour ago, hotsauce126 said: I’m an anesthetist and we use scopolamine patches (the patch you’re talking about) on patients with severe postoperative nausea and vomiting. They work but for some the side effects are significant (drowsiness, dry mouth, dilated pupils if you touch it then touch your eyes). They can also cause confusion in the elderly. I’d say the majority of people do fine with them but it wouldn’t hurt to do a test run

I always ask for Zofran because any kind of sedation/anesthesia makes me sick.  Works like a charm every time.

Bound4Bermuda

Is it better to take  meclizine in the morning or at night? I was thinking the morning simply because I may have some wine at night so better to avoid taking soon after ingesting alcohol. 

I've been lucky in that I've never needed one on any of my sailings.  My first cruise in 2003, I brought some but never used them.  45 cruises later, I'm still going strong.  

Has anyone bought the patches lately?  We used to get them for my wife, but after a hurricane hit PR a few years ago, we couldn’t get the generics because the manufacturing plant got wiped out. Name brand price was ridiculous and she quit using it.  Is generic scopolamine available now?  

Been prone to motion sickness all my life.  I use the patch.  For me it works and I have few if any side effects.

I'm also very prone to motion sickness. The patch works great for me. The only side effect I get is some dry mouth. I'm also one of the lucky one's who suffers from land sickness after the cruise. I keep a patch on for 2 weeks after to combat that. The things we do to be able to cruise 😂

ARandomTraveler

2 hours ago, Sunshine3601 said: I have heard that sea bands work great too!    

1 hour ago, FLConnie said: Wrist bands work great!  

I threw up all over my sea bands 😂

The patch works but I learned that I need to take it off after wearing it for a day. The medicine seems to stick with me and keep me from getting sick, but if I leave it on longer than a day, my vision gets blurry and I get a dry mouth and a sore throat, the whole works.  

My doctor prescribes me 3 at a time, that way I can put one on before I get on the ship, then re-up in the middle of the cruise if need be. The 3rd is a backup in case one falls off or something.   

My last couple cruises have been the southern route out of Puerto Rico and the seas down there are much more calm, no need for the patch at all.  

nonnie&dgd

I always use the patch. The pills don’t work for me. Just make sure you wash your hands after you put the patch on and don’t touch your eyes. It will make your eyesight blurry if you have any residue on your fingers.

GeezerCouple

5 hours ago, island lady said: Many years ago, being prone to motion sickness...I elected to use the patch just before boarding my very first cruise.      Within hours I had dry mouth, was dizzy, nauseous, and felt all over weird.   Took the patch off and was fine in a couple of hours.     40+ years of cruising later, have never used it again....and am fine on each cruise.     FYI for your friend.  

We STRONGLY suggest that anyone planning to use (or possibly use) any new medicine while traveling TRY IT AT HOME FIRST.

If you are going to have any kind of reaction, find that out while you are in the comfort of your own home and also near your regular medical care.

It doesn't matter if "most people don't have a reaction" or not.  You are just one person, with your own biology/etc., plus whatever types of meds (or even foods) that you take.  No one else is exactly the same.

Hopefully this will also save you from wasting some time during your trip finding out what you could have found out at home in advance.  Or something worse...

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