Sailing is a fantastic way to connect with nature, enjoy the open water, and develop a new skill that can lead to unforgettable adventures – however, for beginners, the prospect of seasickness can dampen the excitement. The good news is that with the right strategies, you can minimise the likelihood of feeling queasy and focus on mastering your sailing skills. Here are some practical tips to help you stay steady on your feet and enjoy the journey.
Choose Calm Waters for Your Lessons
When starting your sailing journey, it’s wise to opt for locations with calmer waters and less turbulent conditions. Harbours and sheltered bays are ideal for beginners, as the water tends to be smoother and more predictable. For instance, Sydney Harbour provides an excellent environment for learning, especially when you combine your lessons with a boat hire in Sydney, ensuring a quality vessel suited to your needs.
Prepare Your Body
Avoid starting your sailing day on an empty stomach, but also steer clear of heavy, greasy meals – eating a light, balanced meal can help stabilise your system. Staying hydrated is equally important, but avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, as these can exacerbate seasickness symptoms. Ginger, whether in the form of tea, chews, or capsules, is a natural remedy often praised for its effectiveness in combating nausea.
Keep Your Eyes on the Horizon
One of the most effective ways to prevent seasickness is to maintain a steady gaze on the horizon. This helps your brain reconcile the motion of the boat with what your eyes are seeing, reducing the sensory conflict that often leads to nausea. Try to position yourself where you have a clear view of the water and horizon – this simple trick can make a big difference.
Avoid Staying Below Deck
While it might be tempting to retreat below deck when you start feeling unwell, this can often make matters worse. The confined space and lack of visual reference points can intensify symptoms. Instead, stay on deck where you can feel the fresh breeze and see the horizon.
Use Preventative Remedies
If you know you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines designed for travel sickness. These are most effective when taken before symptoms start. Alternatively, acupressure wristbands can be a non-medicinal option, targeting pressure points that may help reduce nausea.
Get Plenty of Rest
Fatigue can increase your susceptibility to seasickness. Ensure you’re well-rested before heading out for your sailing lesson. A good night’s sleep will not only help with seasickness but will also allow you to better absorb the skills you’re learning.
Practice Makes Perfect
Like any skill, sailing becomes more enjoyable with practice. Over time, your body may adapt to the motion of the water, reducing your likelihood of seasickness. Start with shorter trips and gradually work up to longer voyages as your confidence grows.
Learning to sail is an exciting and rewarding endeavour, and with these tips, you can keep seasickness at bay and focus on building your skills. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure or teaming up with friends, choosing the right environment and preparation will set you up for smooth sailing ahead.
