Tips to help you enjoy every moment at sea
Joining a whale safari in Tromsø is one of the most exciting ways to experience the arctic, but for some guests, the idea of spending several hours at sea brings one concern: sea sickness.
The good news is that with a few simple steps and the right mindset, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting seasick — or avoid it entirely. Here’s how to stay comfortable and enjoy your whale safari to the fullest.
What Causes Seasickness?
Seasickness happens when your brain receives mixed signals from your inner ear, eyes, and body. When the boat moves, but your eyes don’t see the motion (for example, if you’re looking inside or at your phone), your brain gets confused — leading to dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.
The key to preventing it is to help your body and senses to stay in sync.
1. Choose your spot wisely
Where you sit or stand on the boat matters.
- Stay near the center or back of the vessel, where movement is least noticeable
- The bow (front) is where the motion is stronger
- Keep your eyes on the horizon — this helps your brain align with the boat’s movement
2. Eat light — But don’t skip meals
An empty stomach can make sea sickness worse, but heavy or greasy food before departure isn’t ideal either.
- Eat a light meal (like toast, fruit, or yogurt) before your trip
- Avoid alcohol and large amounts of caffeine before boarding
- Bring small snacks — like crackers or ginger biscuits — to nibble on during the trip (we have biscuits onboard)
3. Get fresh air and look outside
If you start feeling uneasy, go outside and breathe fresh air.
- Looking at the horizon or land helps to reorient your senses
- Avoid reading or looking at your phone — this often makes symptoms worse
- In case you need to throw up, do not lock yourself in the bathroom – use sea sickness bags instead (available onboard)
4. Use motion sickness remedies
If you know you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking preventive medication before your trip.
- Over-the-counter tablets like Postafen or Dramamine are effective for most people
- Always follow dosage instructions and consult a pharmacist or doctor if unsure
- Remember to take the medicine 1-2 hours before departure
- Natural options like ginger tablets, sweets, or tea can also help settle the stomach
5. Stay calm and relaxed
Anxiety can make motion sickness worse. Remember — it’s a natural reaction and usually passes quickly once you find your balance.
- Focus on the experience — the sea air, the scenery, and the excitement of spotting whales
- Breathe slowly and keep your body relaxed
6. Dress warmly and comfortably
Feeling cold can intensify nausea.
- Wear warm, layered clothing, ideally with wool base layers
- Keep your head, neck, and hands warm, and don’t hesitate to move around if you need to
You can read more about what to wear and how to stay warm on a winter whale safari in this blog post.
A few final words from Njord Adventures
Most guests don’t get seasick — and those who do usually recover quickly once they’re in the fresh Arctic air and focused on the whales. There is nothing embarrassing about being sea sick, and our crew is always ready to help with advice and support.
When you’re well-prepared, you’ll be able to relax and take in the magic of the Norwegian winter — the whales, the fjords, and the polar light.
