Fast boat trips to the Gili Islands, Nusa Penida, and other nearby destinations are often the quickest and most scenic way to explore Bali’s surrounding islands. However, for those prone to seasickness, these journeys can be uncomfortable. The good news is that with the right preparations and mindset, you can manage seasickness and enjoy your ride. Here’s how to handle seasickness on fast boat journeys.
Understand Why Seasickness Happens
Seasickness occurs when the brain receives mixed signals from your inner ear (which senses motion), eyes, and sensory nerves. When these signals don’t match—like when you’re on a moving boat but sitting still—your brain can become confused, leading to nausea, dizziness, and vomiting.
Understanding the cause can help you anticipate symptoms and manage them before they escalate.
Choose the Right Seat on the Boat
Where you sit on the boat can make a big difference in how you feel. The back of the boat tends to have less motion than the front, so opt for a seat toward the rear. Some boats have outdoor seating, which may help if you need fresh air to feel better. Here’s a quick guide to seating:
- Rear of the boat: Less movement and ideal for minimizing seasickness.
- Middle of the boat: Also a good choice, as it experiences less rocking than the front.
- Open-air seating: Helps with fresh air and visibility, which can prevent motion sickness.
- Avoid the front: The front of the boat usually feels the most movement and can exacerbate seasickness.
Take Motion Sickness Medication
If you know you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness medication before your journey. Here are a few options to consider:
- Over-the-counter medications: Antihistamines like Dramamine or Bonine are effective at preventing and managing symptoms. Take them at least 30 minutes before your trip.
- Ginger supplements: Ginger has long been used as a natural remedy for nausea. You can take ginger capsules, chew on candied ginger, or sip ginger tea before and during your trip.
- Sea bands: These acupressure wristbands apply gentle pressure to points on the wrist that are believed to reduce nausea. While they’re not proven to work for everyone, many travelers find them helpful.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
What you consume before and during your boat trip can also affect how you feel. Here are some tips for keeping nausea at bay:
- Eat light: Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy meals before your trip. Opt for light, easy-to-digest foods like crackers, toast, or bananas.
- Stay hydrated: Drink water before and during the trip to stay hydrated, but don’t overdo it, as a full stomach can worsen seasickness.
- Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can dehydrate you and make seasickness worse, so it’s best to avoid it before and during the boat ride.
Focus on the Horizon
When you start to feel queasy, focusing on the horizon or a fixed point in the distance can help reduce symptoms. This gives your brain a visual anchor and helps it process the movement more effectively. Here’s how to use this technique:
- Sit near a window: If you’re inside the boat, try to find a seat with a view of the horizon.
- Stay in the open air: Being outside on deck gives you a clear view of the water and horizon, which can help balance your sense of motion.
- Avoid reading or looking at screens: Focusing on a book or phone can confuse your brain further, worsening the feeling of seasickness.
Practice Deep Breathing
Deep, controlled breathing can help manage nausea by calming your body’s nervous system. Try this simple breathing exercise if you start to feel sick:
- Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of four.
- Hold your breath for a count of four.
- Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of six.
- Repeat this cycle for a few minutes or until you start feeling better.
Deep breathing can relax your body and reduce the intensity of seasickness.
Keep Your Eyes and Mind Busy
Distracting yourself from seasickness can be an effective way to cope. Focusing on an activity or conversation can keep your mind occupied and take your attention away from the queasy feeling. Here are some distraction techniques:
- Listen to music: Put on relaxing or upbeat music through your headphones and focus on the rhythm.
- Engage in conversation: Chatting with fellow passengers can help take your mind off the boat’s motion.
- Take in the scenery: Enjoy the beautiful views as you cruise through Bali’s waters and approach the islands.
Staying mentally engaged can prevent you from fixating on any discomfort.
Fresh Air and Hydration Are Key
Fresh air can work wonders for seasickness. If you’re starting to feel ill, try to get outside to an open-air section of the boat. The breeze will help clear your head and reduce nausea. Along with fresh air, staying hydrated is essential. Dehydration can worsen symptoms, so sip on water or an electrolyte drink throughout the trip.
Avoid Focusing on Other Seasick Passengers
It’s tempting to check on how others are doing, but focusing on seasick passengers can trigger your own symptoms. If someone else is feeling unwell, try to avoid watching them. Focus instead on the scenery, your breathing, or your own distractions to keep your mind off the situation.
Prepare for Post-Boat Recovery
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, seasickness might linger even after you step off the boat. This sensation is known as “land sickness,” and it can make you feel like the ground is still moving beneath you. To recover, do the following:
- Walk slowly: Moving around on solid ground can help your body readjust to a non-moving environment.
- Drink water: Rehydrate with water or an electrolyte drink to help flush out any lingering symptoms.
- Rest: If you feel dizzy or tired, take it easy and give your body time to recover.
Fortunately, land sickness usually fades within a few hours.
