No need to fear sea sickness

No need to fear sea sickness

Worried about getting sea sick on your Havila voyage? You’re not alone – and a few simple tips can make all the difference. 

solo traveler on outside deck

Many first-time cruisers – and even seasoned travellers – wonder whether they’ll feel unwell at sea. We’re here to reassure you: our ships are designed for your comfort, with modern stabilising technology, quiet propulsion and routes that hug the sheltered Norwegian coast.

Here’s what to expect with Havila Voyages

While motion sickness can be a concern for some, our ship design, gentle routes, and attentive service mean you’re unlikely to feel anything but relaxed. For most travellers, any symptoms of sea sickness are mild and easy to manage – especially aboard modern, stable ships of the Havila Voyages fleet.

View from the bow of a Havila Voyages ship sailing toward the horizon at sunset, with the sun perfectly aligned over the sea and snowy mountains in the distance.

Stabilising technology

Our ships are equipped with state-of-the-art stabilisers that reduce rolling motion in rougher seas. This makes the ride much smoother, significantly reducing the risk of motion sickness.

Sheltered coastal route

We sail where few others can: Navigating Norway’s coastline requires full pilotage certification for the entire route – a qualification held only by the most skilled captains and officers. This rare expertise allows us to sail deep into fjords and along the sheltered inshore waters, delivering a smooth, safe, and truly unique voyage you can only experience with those licensed for the coastal route.

Colorful fishing boats and snow-covered buildings in the harbor of a Norwegian coastal town, bathed in soft winter light.
Havila coastal cruise ship docked in a snowy Norwegian harbor at sunset, with warm pastel skies and a coastal town in the background.

Silent, smooth sailing

Our hybrid ships are powered by a combination of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and large battery packs, allowing them to sail with minimal vibration, engine noise, and without the diesel fumes – three common triggers of motion sickness. Thanks to energy-efficient hulls, four hours of zero-emission sailing, and quiet, steady operation, many guests are surprised by how calm the voyage feels.

A passenger photographing a snow-covered mountain landscape from the deck of a Havila Voyages ship on a clear, sunny day.

Tips to prevent and manage motion sickness

If you’re prone to travel sickness or simply want to be prepared, there are plenty of ways to prevent or ease symptoms:

Before your voyage:

  • Contact our customer support team: We’ll help you choose the best available cabin for your needs and make sure every detail is set for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

  • Consult your doctor or pharmacist: If you’ve experienced motion sickness before, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor or pharmacist ahead of your voyage. They can recommend suitable options – like patches or motion sickness medication.

  • Try natural remedies: Ginger (tea, tablets, or chews) is known to soothe nausea.

  • Get a good night’s sleep and eat lightly before boarding.

During your voyage:

  • Go outside and focus on the horizon: Fresh air and visual reference help your body balance.
  • Eat small, bland meals: Avoid greasy or spicy food if you feel queasy.

  • Avoid screens or reading while feeling unwell: These activities can worsen symptoms.

  • Use sea bands or motion sickness wristbands: They apply pressure to specific points on the wrist and can relieve nausea for some people.

A smiling man wearing a white shirt and a dark blue tie stands in front of a glass wall featuring the Havila Voyages logo. He is bald with light stubble.  The surrounding environment is bright and modern with wooden details.

Support and help onboard

If you feel unwell during the voyage, our crew is here to help. The reception is staffed 24/7, and we can offer remedies, a space to rest, and kind support from experienced staff.

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