Seasickness can turn a dream family day on the water into a miserable experience. But with the right preparation, you can keep your kids comfortable and happy during a boat charter from Marbella. This guide covers prevention, natural remedies, medication, and what to do if symptoms strike – so your family can enjoy the Costa del Sol from the sea.
Why children get seasick on boats in Marbella
Seasickness happens when the brain receives mixed signals from the eyes (which see a stable cabin) and the inner ear (which feels the boat's motion). Children under 12 are more prone because their vestibular system is still maturing. The gentle swell off Puerto Banús can trigger nausea even on calm days. Motion on smaller boats like the Speedboat (7m, 6 pax) or Dubhe (8m, 5 pax) is more pronounced, while larger vessels like the Mangusta 80 (24m, 12 pax) offer greater stability.
Before you board: prevention strategies
The best cure is prevention. Start 24 hours before your charter: ensure your child sleeps well and eats lightly. On the morning of your trip, serve a bland breakfast – toast, banana, or plain cereal – and avoid dairy or fried foods. Hydrate with water, not juice. Consider giving an age-appropriate antihistamine 30-60 minutes before departure. Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) is common for children over 2, but always consult a pharmacist. Ginger chews or crystallised ginger are a natural alternative and can be offered 20 minutes before boarding.
What to pack for a seasickness-free day
Your packing list should include: ginger chews or lollipops, acupressure wristbands (Sea-Bands), a small towel, extra water, and salty snacks like pretzels or crackers. Avoid sugary drinks – our charters include still water, soft drinks, and light snacks. A light jacket or windbreaker helps if the breeze is cool. If your child is prone to motion sickness, pack a small bag for emergencies. Our boats have heads (toilets) on board, so access is easy.
Onboard tips to minimise motion sickness
Once aboard, choose a seat in the centre of the boat on the lower deck – this is where motion is least. Have your child face forward and focus on the horizon or a fixed point on land, like La Concha mountain. Avoid reading, tablets, or phones. Keep them cool with a hat and sunscreen. If the boat is anchored for swimming, the motion stops, which can help reset the inner ear. Our skippers are experienced with families and can adjust the route to calmer waters near Cabopino or Estepona.
What to do if seasickness strikes
If your child feels queasy, act quickly. Move them to the centre of the boat, lower deck. Have them focus on the horizon. Offer small sips of water or ginger ale. Do not let them lie down with eyes closed – that often worsens the sensation. If vomiting occurs, clean up calmly and offer fresh air. A cool cloth on the forehead helps. Most children recover within 20 minutes once they are stable. If symptoms persist, the skipper can return to port early – all our charters are flexible.
Choosing the right boat for kids
Bigger boats mean less motion. For families, the Astondoa 40 (12.5m, 9 pax) at €749/2h or the Azimut 58 Flybridge (17.6m, 12 pax) are excellent choices. The Mangusta 80 (24m, 12 pax) offers supreme stability and includes a jet ski for older kids. Avoid smaller speedboats if motion is a concern. All our boats depart from Puerto Banús and cruise along the sheltered coast, minimising rough conditions.
Natural remedies that work
Ginger is the most researched natural treatment for nausea. Ginger chews, capsules, or even ginger tea (cooled) can be given to children. Acupressure wristbands (Sea-Bands) apply pressure to the P6 point on the wrist and are safe for kids of all ages. Peppermint oil on a tissue or a peppermint sweet can also soothe the stomach. These are best used alongside the prevention tips above, not as a substitute for medication if your child is highly susceptible.
When to see a doctor before your trip
If your child has a history of severe motion sickness, or if they are under 2, speak to your paediatrician before the charter. They may recommend a prescription patch (scopolamine) for older children or advise on safe antihistamine dosing. For most kids, over-the-counter options and natural remedies are sufficient. Our charters are family-friendly, and we can recommend the calmest times of day – typically morning departures from Puerto Banús.
Frequently asked questions
What causes seasickness in children on a boat in Marbella?
Seasickness occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the inner ear (motion) and eyes (stillness). On a boat in Marbella, gentle rolling or choppy waves off Puerto Banús can trigger nausea. Children under 12 are more susceptible because their balance systems are still developing.
How can I prevent seasickness in my child before a Marbella boat trip?
Give your child a light meal 1-2 hours before departure – avoid greasy or heavy foods. Consider an antihistamine like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) 30-60 minutes before boarding, but check with a pharmacist for age-appropriate dosing. Ginger chews or crystallised ginger also help settle the stomach naturally.
What should I pack for my child to avoid seasickness on a Marbella charter?
Pack ginger chews or lollipops, acupressure wristbands (Sea-Bands), a small towel, extra water, and salty snacks like pretzels. Avoid sugary drinks – our charter includes still water and soft drinks. A light jacket or windbreaker helps if the breeze is cool.
Are there any medications safe for children with seasickness on a boat?
Yes, dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) is commonly used for children over 2 years – follow the weight-based dosing on the label. Meclizine (Bonine) is another option but is typically for children over 12. Always consult a paediatrician or pharmacist before giving any medication, especially for toddlers.
Which Marbella boat charter is best for kids prone to seasickness?
Larger, heavier boats like the Mangusta 80 (24m, 12 pax) or Azimut 58 Flybridge (17.6m, 12 pax) offer greater stability in calm Marbella waters. The Astondoa 40 (12.5m, 9 pax) is also a good choice for smaller groups. Avoid smaller speedboats like the Mariah SX21 (6.4m) if motion is a concern.
What should I do if my child starts feeling seasick during the charter?
Move your child to the centre of the boat where motion is least, ideally on the lower deck. Have them focus on the horizon or a fixed point on land. Offer small sips of water or ginger ale. Avoid letting them lie down with eyes closed – that can worsen the sensation. If vomiting occurs, clean up and offer fresh air.
Are there natural remedies for seasickness in kids that work?
Ginger is the most studied natural remedy – ginger chews, capsules, or tea can reduce nausea. Acupressure wristbands (Sea-Bands) apply pressure to the P6 point on the wrist and are safe for children. Peppermint oil on a tissue can also help calm the stomach. These are best used alongside prevention strategies.
Can I book a shorter charter to test if my child gets seasick?
Absolutely. Our Tier A boats start from €749 for a 2-hour charter, which is enough time to cruise from Puerto Banús to Cala del Faro or along the Golden Mile. If your child feels fine, you can extend to a longer trip next time. All charters include a licensed skipper who can adjust the route to calmer waters.