Most guests are completely fine, but the open sea can surprise even seasoned travellers — especially on a windier crossing day. A little prep goes a long way, and your skipper has your back if things go sideways.
Before you fly: pack a small "sea-stomach kit"
If you've ever been carsick, airsick, or queasy on a boat before, plan ahead. We recommend bringing:
Anti-nausea tablets — over-the-counter options like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), meclizine (Bonine), or cinnarizine (Stugeron) work well. Take the first dose before you leave the marina, not after symptoms start. Some options can make you drowsy — try them at home first if you've never used them.
Acupressure wristbands (Sea-Bands or similar) — drug-free, reusable, and handy for guests who can't or don't want to take medication. They're inexpensive and worth packing even if you don't think you'll need them.
Ginger chews, ginger tea, or ginger tablets — a gentle natural option that takes the edge off mild queasiness.
A refillable water bottle — dehydration makes seasickness worse. Sip steadily, especially on travel and crossing days.
If you take a prescription anti-nausea medication (e.g. scopolamine patches), bring more than you think you'll need and keep it in your carry-on.
What's already on board
Each yacht is stocked with a basic first-aid kit, but it is not a pharmacy. Don't count on finding seasickness tablets on board — supplies vary by boat, country, and season, and brand availability is limited locally. Bring your own.
Pharmacies in our destination towns generally stock common motion-sickness medication, but opening hours can be short and stock isn't guaranteed, so packing ahead is by far the easier route.
A note on insurance and costs
Travel insurance is required for every Yacht Week guest, and your policy must include medical coverage abroad (including hospitalisation and, where relevant, repatriation). Any costs for medical treatment, transport, or pharmacy purchases are your responsibility — keep your receipts so you can claim them back through your insurer afterward. See our travel-insurance article for what your policy needs to cover.
Quick checklist
✅ Anti-nausea tablets (test at home first if new to you)
✅ Sea-Bands or similar acupressure wristbands
✅ Ginger chews / tea
✅ Refillable water bottle
✅ Prescription medication (in carry-on)
✅ Medical info disclosed on your guest form
✅ Travel insurance with medical coverage in place