Few things can derail a cruise faster than that creeping wave of nausea. One minute you’re soaking in ocean views, the next you’re gripping the rails, queasy and miserable. For those with emetophobia – the fear of vomiting – the thought alone can trigger anxiety before the trip has even begun.
Searches for “emetophobia” spiked by a staggering 48% from February to March in 2025, while a snap poll from Hupla discovered that 15% of the UK have reported feeling seasick on a cruise. But does this mean those who suffer with seasickness must avoid a cruise holiday at all costs?
“With the majority of a cruise holiday spent onboard the ship, aside from the occasional on-land excursion, seasickness is far from ideal,” says Mark Barton, who is a cruise expert working with holiday insurance providers Avanti, and has over 25 years’ experience in the maritime industry.
“Extreme nausea caused by seasickness can be a dampener on the holiday you’ve been looking forward to all year,” continues Mark, “but it doesn’t mean you need to avoid cruising entirely.
“River cruises are the answer for those who suffer from intense seasickness,” Mark reveals. “It’s not a commonly known fact, but river cruises are much easier on the stomach than sea cruises; I always recommend these for people who suffer with seasickness, but don’t want to miss out.
“The tides and current in a river are much less intense than in the sea. This makes them perfect for those sensitive to seasickness because they’re often a much smoother journey, travelling at a far slower pace than sea cruises.
Avanti’s Quiet Cruise Guide features a selection of top river routes, perfect for holidaymakers who want to enjoy the laid-back life on deck, without risking seasickness.
“Travellers can enjoy a culture-rich voyage through the vibrant landscape of the Mekong River in Southeast Asia, or a luxurious trip down the Danube in Central Europe.
“For history-lovers, a journey down the path of the Ancient Egyptians on a Nile River cruise is sure to be bursting with landmarks and stories to capture the imagination. And for foodies, the Rhône River in France is a must-visit to lap up the decadent cuisine and picturesque scenery.”
Mark also shares four tips for seasick-prone holidaymakers:
- Take seasickness tablets preventatively
“If you know you’re prone to seasickness when travelling by ship, you can always take your seasickness tablets preventatively, so the medication can take effect before symptoms hit you. Always read the instructions carefully and never more than the recommended dose.”
- Use anti-nausea bands
“Motion sickness bands can be really useful for people who suffer with sea seasickness,” Mark advises. “They work by placing pressure on a nerve on the inside of the wrist, disrupting nausea signals to help alleviate the feeling. They’re an effective treatment that lots of people choose as an alternative to medication.”
- Choose the right insurance
“In the case of illness which requires urgent medical attention, such as dehydration caused by extreme vomiting, it’s highly recommended to have specific cruise travel insurance cover that includes any cruise-specific illnesses and cabin confinement ,” shares Mark.
- Check the season before booking
“When planning your trip, it’s essential to check the season of your cruise destination. Steer clear of weather extremes like hurricane season or monsoons which will bring disruptive seas and increase your chance of seasickness,” Mark warns.