Seasickness Prevention Tips for Lisbon Sailing Tours
- lisbonbyboat
- 1 day ago
- 7 min read

Over half of all american travelers report motion sickness as a major concern when booking coastal tours. Enjoying the stunning Lisbon coastline from a sailboat should be relaxing, not stressful. Knowing how to prepare and manage your comfort can turn what might feel like a risky adventure into an easy and memorable experience. This guide offers practical steps backed by expert advice, helping you fully enjoy every moment of your Lisbon sailing tour.
Â
Table of Contents
Â
Â
Quick Summary
Â
Key Point | Explanation |
1. Plan meals wisely before sailing | Eat light, digestible snacks, and avoid heavy meals to minimize seasickness risk during your tour. |
2. Choose your position strategically | Sit near the center of the boat and keep your eyes on the horizon to reduce motion discomfort. |
3. Stay hydrated and fed | Maintain hydration and avoid sailing on an empty stomach to help keep seasickness at bay. |
4. Use effective seasickness remedies | Invest in motion sickness bands or use ginger for natural relief, and consider medications as needed. |
5. Monitor comfort and engage in activities | Stay active and communicate with the crew if discomfort arises to ensure an enjoyable sailing experience. |
Step 1: Plan Ahead with Smart Preparations
Â
Preparing effectively before your Lisbon sailing tour can make the difference between an enjoyable maritime adventure and an uncomfortable experience. Smart preparation helps minimize the chances of seasickness and ensures you’re ready for a smooth sailing journey.
Â
According to Sailing Today, it’s crucial to consult your doctor before taking any motion sickness medication. Some treatments can have unexpected side effects, so professional medical advice is key. Additionally, planning your meals strategically can significantly reduce seasickness risk. Prepare lightweight, easily digestible snacks and cold meals in advance since cooking might be challenging in rough water conditions.
Â
Finch Bay Hotel recommends avoiding alcohol and heavy meals the day before your yacht tour. Instead, opt for a light meal at least one hour before boarding to keep your stomach settled. This approach helps prevent potential motion sickness triggers and ensures you’re comfortable throughout the sailing experience.
Â
A pro tip to remember is to pack a small bag with essentials like water, light snacks, motion sickness medication, and a light jacket. This preparation will help you stay comfortable and focused on enjoying the beautiful Lisbon coastline during your sailing adventure.
Â
Step 2: Choose Strategic Positions On Board
Â
Positioning yourself strategically on a sailing tour can dramatically reduce your chances of experiencing seasickness and help you enjoy the breathtaking Lisbon coastline. Understanding how boat movement affects your body is key to selecting the most comfortable spot during your maritime adventure.
Â
According to AAA, selecting a location near the ship’s center can significantly minimize motion impact. This area experiences less rocking compared to the boat’s edges, which means you’ll experience more stability and less potential for motion sickness. Think of it like sitting in the middle of a car versus near the windows during a winding road trip.
Â
Teansea suggests sitting on the low side of the boat, closer to the water. This position typically moves less than the higher side, which can help reduce feelings of motion sickness. When you board the sailing yacht, take a moment to assess the different areas and choose a spot that feels most comfortable and stable.
Â
A pro tip is to keep your eyes on the horizon. This helps your brain reconcile the boat’s movement with your visual perception, which can significantly reduce the likelihood of feeling dizzy or nauseous. Your strategic positioning combined with this visual technique will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable sailing experience along Lisbon’s stunning coastline.

Step 3: Follow Dietary Guidelines Prior to Sailing
Â
Preparing your body through smart dietary choices can significantly reduce the likelihood of seasickness during your Lisbon sailing adventure. Understanding what and how to eat before boarding can make the difference between an enjoyable maritime experience and a challenging voyage.
Â
According to Tubber, it is crucial to avoid heading out on an empty stomach, as this can actually increase your risk of seasickness. Instead, focus on consuming lighter meals that are easy to digest. Choose snacks and foods that are gentle on your stomach and provide steady energy. This means steering clear of heavy, greasy foods that might upset your digestive system when combined with boat movement.
Â
Hydration plays a critical role in preventing motion sickness. As recommended by Tubber, drink water regularly before and during your sailing tour. Aim to stay well hydrated without consuming excessive amounts that might make you feel uncomfortable. Light, bland foods like crackers, toast, or bananas can be excellent choices to settle your stomach and provide necessary nutrients.
Â
For those wondering what to wear while managing these dietary guidelines, check out our What to Wear Sailing in Lisbon: Essential Tourist Guide to complete your preparation. By following these dietary recommendations, you’ll be setting yourself up for a comfortable and enjoyable sailing experience along Lisbon’s stunning coastline.
Step 4: Use Proven Remedies for Seasickness
Â
Combating seasickness requires a strategic approach with multiple proven remedies that can help you enjoy your Lisbon sailing experience. Understanding and implementing these techniques can transform a potentially uncomfortable journey into an enjoyable maritime adventure.
Â
Sail Checker recommends investing in specialized wristbands designed to alleviate motion sickness. These innovative bands work through acupressure techniques by applying targeted pressure to a specific point on your wrist. The principle behind these bands is simple yet effective they interrupt the signals that typically trigger nausea and dizziness, providing natural relief without medication.
Â
Beyond wristbands, consider combining multiple strategies for maximum effectiveness. Over the counter motion sickness medications can be helpful when used as directed. Ginger supplements or candies are another natural alternative that many sailors find soothing. Keeping your focus on the horizon and maintaining fresh air circulation can also significantly reduce your likelihood of experiencing seasickness symptoms.
Â
A pro tip is to start using any preventative remedies about 30 minutes before boarding. This gives your body time to adjust and allows the remedy to take full effect. Remember that everyone responds differently to various treatments, so be prepared to experiment and find what works best for you during your sailing tour along Lisbon’s beautiful coastline.

Step 5: Monitor Your Comfort Throughout the Tour
Â
Staying comfortable during your Lisbon sailing adventure requires active awareness and strategic management of your physical and mental state. By proactively monitoring your condition, you can minimize seasickness and maximize your enjoyment of the maritime experience.
Â
According to BIMC Bali, engaging in light activities can be an excellent strategy for diverting attention from potential discomfort. Consider chatting with fellow passengers, listening to music, or enjoying light conversation. These simple distractions can help redirect your mind from the boat’s motion and reduce the likelihood of experiencing seasickness symptoms.
Â
Boat Bookings recommends staying on deck as much as possible to help your body adapt to the wave movements. Being on deck allows you to see the horizon clearly, which helps your brain process the boat’s motion more effectively. The fresh air and visual reference points can significantly alleviate seasickness symptoms. Pay attention to your body signals and be prepared to adjust your position or try different comfort techniques if you start feeling uneasy.
Â
A pro tip is to communicate with the sailing crew if you begin experiencing significant discomfort. They are experienced professionals who can offer additional support and help you find the most comfortable spot on the boat. Remember that everyone’s body responds differently to maritime conditions, so remain patient and flexible in your approach to managing seasickness during your Lisbon coastal tour.
Â
Enjoy a Comfortable and Scenic Lisbon Sailing Experience Without Seasickness
Â
Seasickness can turn a dream sailing tour along Lisbon’s stunning coastline into an uneasy journey. This article highlights key challenges like nausea, dizziness, and discomfort that many travelers face on the water. Your goal is clear: avoid seasickness while immersing yourself in the rich maritime beauty and historical sights of Lisbon. Simple strategies such as choosing the right spot on the boat, maintaining proper hydration, and using natural remedies can make all the difference in your comfort.
Â
At Lisbon by Boat, we understand these concerns and are dedicated to providing sailing tours designed to help you relax and enjoy every moment. Whether you join our daily 2-hour sailing tours or opt for private cruises on yachts or catamarans, our expert guides and carefully planned routes ensure minimal rocking and maximum enjoyment. We encourage you to prepare smartly and let us guide you through unforgettable waterscapes with ease.

Take the first step toward a serene sailing adventure by booking your tour today at Lisbon by Boat. Discover how effortless and enjoyable exploring Lisbon’s coastline by sea can be when you prepare and sail with professionals who care about your comfort. Check out our detailed What to Wear Sailing in Lisbon: Essential Tourist Guide to complete your preparations and make seasickness a thing of the past. Your perfect maritime escape awaits.
Â
Frequently Asked Questions
Â
How can I prevent seasickness before my sailing tour?
Â
To prevent seasickness before your sailing tour, consult your doctor about motion sickness medications and eat light, easily digestible meals. Focus on consuming bland snacks and avoid heavy foods and alcohol at least one hour before boarding.
Â
What should I pack to stay comfortable on the boat?
Â
Pack a small bag with essentials like water, light snacks, motion sickness medication, and a light jacket. Keeping these items accessible will help you manage any discomfort and focus on enjoying the sailing experience.
Â
Where should I sit on the boat to reduce my chances of seasickness?
Â
Sit near the center of the boat for more stability and less rocking. Additionally, position yourself on the low side of the boat, closer to the water, to further minimize motion effects during the tour.
Â
What dietary guidelines should I follow before sailing to avoid seasickness?
Â
Consume light meals that are easy to digest and avoid going out on an empty stomach, which can increase the risk of seasickness. Opt for bland foods like crackers or bananas to provide a steady source of energy while keeping your stomach settled.
Â
What are some effective remedies for seasickness during the tour?
Â
Consider using acupressure wristbands or over-the-counter motion sickness medications to alleviate symptoms. Focus on the horizon and maintain fresh air circulation, as these strategies can significantly reduce seasickness during your sailing adventure.
Â
How can I manage discomfort if I start feeling seasick while sailing?
Â
Monitor your comfort by engaging in light activities and staying on deck to adapt to wave movements. If discomfort persists, communicate with the sailing crew for support and adjust your position to find a more comfortable spot.
Â
Recommended
Â

