Fast boat rides to the Gili Islands from Bali are often a highlight for travelers, offering stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands. However, the journey can sometimes be rough, especially for those prone to seasickness. If you’re worried about seasickness, or have experienced it before, there are plenty of steps you can take to reduce discomfort and enjoy your boat ride.
Here’s a guide on what to do if you start feeling seasick on your fast boat journey.
Choose the Right Seat
The first step to preventing or managing seasickness is to choose a seat in the most stable part of the boat. Typically, sitting in the middle or back of the boat will offer the smoothest ride, as these areas experience less motion compared to the front.
The front of the boat may rise and fall more significantly with the waves, which can intensify the sensation of seasickness. If possible, opt for an indoor seat near the back where the motion is less noticeable and the environment is more stable.
Keep Your Eyes on the Horizon
If you start feeling queasy, try focusing on the horizon. Keeping your eyes on a stable point in the distance can help your brain adjust to the movement of the boat. The constant rocking of the boat can confuse your inner ear and your body’s sense of balance, which leads to seasickness. Looking at the horizon helps reorient your balance and reduce the feeling of nausea.
Avoid looking at objects inside the boat, reading, or using your phone, as this can make the symptoms worse. Instead, step outside (if possible) and take in the open views.
Take Motion Sickness Medication Before the Trip
One of the most effective ways to prevent seasickness is by taking motion sickness medication before your fast boat ride. Medications like Dramamine or meclizine are widely available and can help minimize the symptoms of seasickness. Be sure to take the medication at least 30-60 minutes before boarding the boat, as it needs time to enter your system.
If you prefer a non-drowsy option, look for versions labeled as such, but note that some people may still experience mild drowsiness. If you’re unsure which medication to take, consult with a pharmacist or doctor before your trip.
Use Natural Remedies
For those who prefer more natural options, ginger is a well-known remedy for nausea. You can consume ginger in various forms, such as ginger tea, ginger candies, or even ginger capsules, which are easy to bring on board. Ginger helps soothe the stomach and can be taken before or during your trip to combat seasickness.
Peppermint is another natural remedy that can ease nausea. Sipping peppermint tea or sucking on peppermint candies can provide relief during a fast boat ride.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of seasickness, so it’s important to stay hydrated throughout your journey. Bring a bottle of water with you and take small sips frequently to keep your body hydrated. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, as they can exacerbate feelings of nausea.
Some travelers find that sipping on an electrolyte drink like Gatorade can help maintain energy levels and hydration during the trip, especially if they start feeling ill.
Avoid Heavy or Greasy Meals Before the Trip
What you eat before your fast boat ride can have a significant impact on how you feel during the journey. Avoid eating heavy, greasy, or spicy meals before boarding, as these can upset your stomach and make seasickness worse. Instead, opt for light, bland foods like crackers, toast, or fruit, which are easier on your digestive system.
If you’re prone to seasickness, eating small portions rather than a large meal before the trip may also help.
Get Fresh Air
If you start to feel seasick, stepping outside and getting some fresh air can work wonders. Most fast boats have an open deck area where you can stand or sit, allowing you to breathe in fresh air and focus on the horizon. Fresh air can help reduce nausea and make the symptoms more manageable.
Just be sure to hold on to something sturdy, as the open deck can be a little unsteady, especially during rough seas.
Try Acupressure
Acupressure is another natural remedy that some travelers swear by for preventing seasickness. You can either apply pressure yourself or use specially designed acupressure wristbands. These wristbands, like Sea-Bands, apply pressure to the Nei-Kuan point on your wrist, which is said to alleviate nausea.
You can apply acupressure by using your thumb to press down on the area three fingers’ width from the base of your palm, in the middle of your wrist. Apply firm pressure for a few minutes, repeating as necessary throughout the trip.
Stay Calm and Relax
Seasickness is often exacerbated by anxiety or stress. The more you worry about feeling sick, the worse the symptoms may become. Try to stay calm and focus on your breathing. Slow, deep breaths can help you relax and prevent nausea from escalating.
Listening to calming music or a guided meditation on your headphones may help distract your mind from the feeling of seasickness. Closing your eyes and taking slow, deep breaths can help center your body and alleviate discomfort.
Know When to Seek Help
If your seasickness becomes overwhelming and you’re unable to manage the symptoms on your own, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from the boat crew. They are usually prepared to handle seasick passengers and may have remedies like ginger tablets, seasickness bags, or even water to help you feel better.
In severe cases, the crew can also help you find a more comfortable place to sit or suggest other ways to minimize your symptoms.
Plan for Shorter Rides if You’re Prone to Seasickness
If you’re especially prone to seasickness, it might be worth considering shorter boat rides. For example, instead of taking a fast boat all the way from Bali to Gili Trawangan (which can take 2-3 hours depending on the conditions), you could take a shorter ride to Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida, which are closer to Bali. These shorter journeys reduce the risk of prolonged seasickness and still allow you to experience island life.
