A Charleston sailing tour offers one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the charm of the Lowcountry. From panoramic views of historic forts and playful dolphins to the calm, breezy waters of Charleston Harbor, it’s a moment of peace and beauty you won’t forget. But for some, the swaying of the boat can quickly turn that magic into discomfort.
- Pre-Sail Prep That Actually Works
- Onboard Tricks for Instant Relief
- Natural & Tech Aids
- Book Your Smooth Charleston Charter with OM Sailing
Fortunately, with a catamaran, you can leave those worries behind. Unlike traditional monohull boats, catamarans feature a dual-hull design that greatly reduces the rocking motion often responsible for seasickness. Their wide beam adds stability, and the shallow draft helps smooth out bumps from harbor chop. In other words, you’re set for a comfortable journey before you even step aboard.
Still, even with the inherent stability of a catamaran, a few simple preparations can help ensure that you get to fully enjoy your time on the water. Let’s explore how to prevent seasickness on a boat and make the most of your Charleston catamaran charter.
Pre-Sail Prep That Actually Works
One of the most effective ways to avoid seasickness is to start prepping a couple of hours before your boat tour in Charleston. Here’s what really helps:
Eat Light Before Departure
Eat a light, non-greasy meal about two hours before departure. Toast, crackers, a banana, or a small turkey sandwich are good options. Skip anything heavy, spicy, or oily, as those tend to upset your stomach when the boat starts to move.
Hydrate Early and Often
Drink water in the hours before your tour, but don’t chug right before boarding. A well-hydrated body is less prone to dizziness and adjusts better to motion. Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks—these can dehydrate you or make you feel jittery.
Consider Over-the-Counter Options
If you’re prone to motion sickness, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about using over-the-counter medication.
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- Meclizine
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Take one tablet an hour before sailing. It blocks signals to the brain that cause nausea and dizziness.
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- Scopolamine
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Apply behind the ear four hours in advance. The medicine releases slowly for up to three days of relief.
Avoid Alcohol and Screen Time
Alcohol messes with your balance and dehydrates you—two things you don’t want on a boat. So, skip the pre-sail cocktails. And if you’re waiting at the dock, resist the urge to scroll on your phone. Looking at screens right before boarding can confuse your senses and make you more vulnerable to motion sickness once you’re on the water.
Onboard Tricks for Instant Relief
Already feeling queasy? Don’t worry. These simple onboard tricks can help settle your stomach and keep you steady:
Focus on the Horizon
Your eyes need a stable reference to reconcile what the inner ear senses. Looking at the horizon or a distant landmark, such as Fort Sumter or the Ravenel Bridge, helps your brain sync up what you see and what you feel, reducing nausea.
Pick the Right Spot on the Boat
Stay mid-deck, near the center of the catamaran, where the motion is least noticeable. Avoid the bow and stern areas of the vessel. Sit or stand facing forward—the direction of travel helps your brain process movement better.
Try the 4-4-4 Breathing Technique
Slow, rhythmic breathing resets the nervous system. Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, then exhale through pursed lips for 4 seconds. Repeat for two minutes while keeping your eyes on that horizon line.
Let Fresh Air Work Its Magic
Head to an open area of the boat where you can feel the breeze. The fresh air cools you down and eases the queasy feeling. Many people find that the scent of saltwater has a naturally calming effect.
Natural & Tech Aids
If you prefer non-medicated options or want to add extra layers of defense, here are a few remedies that can help:
Ginger and Water
Ginger chews, capsules, or teas are popular natural remedies for motion sickness. Ginger has natural anti-nausea properties, making it a go-to for sailors and travelers. Small, frequent sips of water can help hydrate you without upsetting your stomach.
Acupressure Wristbands
Acupressure wristbands apply pressure on a specific point in your inner wrist, known as Pericardium 6 (P6). Studies show that many users experience reduced nausea. Just be sure to wear them correctly – tight enough to stay in place but not uncomfortable.
Smart Wearables
Advances in wearable technology now offer motion-sensor devices that send subtle pulses to your wrist to retrain the response of your brain to motion. These gadgets aren’t magic but can provide relief, especially when combined with other methods.
Music Therapy
Believe it or not, music can help. Create a playlist with a steady tempo to help your brain find a rhythm while on the boat. Calm instrumental tracks, mellow acoustic tunes, or even ambient ocean sounds can do the trick.
Book Your Smooth Charleston Charter with OM Sailing
OM Sailing Charters invites you aboard our spacious, stable catamaran, OM, built for comfort and unforgettable views. We offer Charleston sailing tours with flexible itineraries that match your pace, while our certified captains, with decades of Lowcountry sailing experience, guarantee your safety on the water. If you’re ready to feel the ocean breeze, book your worry-free sail here today or contact us at 843-973-0761 to schedule a reservation. Smooth seas and steady moments await. See you on deck!