How to Choose a Deck Seat That Reduces Seasickness
There Is a Specific Area Where Motion Is Minimal
A boat rocks forward and backward (pitching) and tilts side to side (rolling). The point where these two movements are felt the least is near the boat’s center of gravity: around the middle of its length and on a lower level close to the waterline. The bow (front), stern (back), and higher decks all tend to have a wider range of motion. If you can choose your seat, generally aim for the “middle and lower deck.”
| Section | Key summary |
|---|---|
| There Is a Specific Area Where Motion Is Minimal | A boat rocks forward and backward (pitching) and tilts side to side (rolling) |
| Seat Selection Priorities | 2nd choice: a seat facing the direction of travel, so your view matches your body’s movement |
| What to Do Before and After Boarding | Your physical condition matters as much as your seat |
Seat Selection Priorities
- 1st choice: the area around the middle of the boat’s length, preferably by a window or deck edge on the lowest deck possible
- 2nd choice: a seat facing the direction of travel, so your view matches your body’s movement
- 3rd choice: a spot with fresh outside air, avoiding enclosed indoor areas and odor-heavy zones near snack bars
- 4th choice: within 20 steps of a restroom and exit, so you can move quickly if needed
- 5th choice: consider the very front of the bow and the railings on the top deck only as a last resort, since they move the most
What to Do Before and After Boarding
Your physical condition matters as much as your seat. Seasickness can worsen on an empty stomach, after overeating, or when staring at a screen. Starting 30 minutes before departure, following the steps below can make the same seat feel very different.
- 30–60 minutes before departure: avoid greasy food and overeating, and lightly settle your stomach with simple carbohydrates.
- Right after boarding: take your eyes off your phone or book and look far out at the horizon or a fixed landform.
- When you feel nauseous: move to a lower seat near the middle of the boat and get 10 minutes of cool outside air.
- Throughout the trip: sip water often and loosen your collar so your breathing does not feel restricted.
If you are especially prone to severe seasickness, remember that medicine usually works best when taken 30 minutes to 1 hour before boarding. For a short trip, three basics can make it much easier to get through: choose a lower seat near the middle, keep your gaze far away, and keep your stomach moderately settled.