One of the most common concerns we hear from first-time charter guests is, “What if I get seasick?”

It’s a fair question. Whether you’re planning a family fishing trip during your Myrtle Beach vacation or heading offshore in search of trophy fish, nobody wants motion sickness to ruin their day on the water.

The good news is that most cases of seasickness can be prevented or significantly reduced with a little preparation. Even people who have experienced motion sickness before can often enjoy a successful fishing charter by following a few simple strategies.

At Myrtle Beach Sport Fishing, we’ve taken thousands of guests fishing off the coast of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Some arrive confident, while others are nervous about how they’ll handle being on a boat. In many cases, the guests who were most concerned end up having a fantastic experience because they prepared properly before their trip.

This guide covers everything you need to know about preventing seasickness and maximizing your enjoyment on a fishing charter in Murrells Inlet.

What Causes Seasickness?

Seasickness occurs when your brain receives conflicting signals from your eyes, inner ear, and body.

For example:

• Your inner ear senses movement from the waves.
• Your body feels the boat rocking.
• Your eyes may be focused on something stationary, like the deck of the boat.

Because these signals don’t match, your brain becomes confused, which can trigger symptoms such as:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Vomiting

The ocean conditions don’t have to be rough for this to happen. Even gentle swells can affect some people, especially if they’re new to boating.

The key is preventing symptoms before they start.

Start Preparing Before Your Charter

One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until they feel sick to do something about it.

Motion sickness prevention works best when started before boarding the boat.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Being tired can make you more susceptible to motion sickness.

Before your Murrells Inlet fishing charter:

• Get a full night’s sleep
• Avoid staying up late
• Stay hydrated
• Limit excessive alcohol consumption the night before

A well-rested body is better equipped to handle motion and changing conditions.

Don’t Skip Breakfast

Many people mistakenly believe that fishing on an empty stomach will prevent nausea.

In reality, the opposite is often true.

An empty stomach can actually make motion sickness worse.

Before your charter, eat a light meal that includes:

• Toast
• Oatmeal
• Eggs
• Fruit
• Crackers

Avoid:

• Greasy foods
• Heavy fast food meals
• Excessive sugar
• Extremely spicy foods

The goal is to have something in your stomach without feeling overly full.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can increase the likelihood of feeling seasick.

Before and during your trip:

• Drink water regularly
• Avoid excessive caffeine
• Limit alcohol consumption

Hydration helps your body function properly and can reduce some symptoms associated with motion sickness.

Consider Motion Sickness Medication

If you know you’re prone to motion sickness, medication may help.

Common options include:

Dramamine

One of the most popular over-the-counter remedies.

For best results:

• Take it before boarding
• Follow package instructions
• Be aware it may cause drowsiness

Bonine

Many anglers prefer Bonine because it tends to cause less drowsiness than some alternatives.

Prescription Options

If you have severe motion sickness, consult your healthcare provider about prescription options such as motion sickness patches.

Always follow medical advice and directions provided by your healthcare professional.

Watch the Horizon

One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce seasickness is to focus on the horizon.

Why does this work?

The horizon provides your brain with a stable visual reference point that helps align what your eyes see with what your inner ear feels.

If you begin feeling uneasy:

• Look out toward the horizon
• Avoid staring at the deck
• Avoid focusing on close objects

Many guests find immediate relief by simply changing where they’re looking.

Stay Outside in Fresh Air

Fresh air can be surprisingly effective.

If you start feeling uncomfortable:

• Move to an area with good airflow
• Avoid enclosed spaces
• Take deep breaths

Staying outside allows your body to better adjust to the movement of the boat.

Most fishing charter guests feel better when they’re actively participating and enjoying the fresh ocean air rather than sitting in an enclosed cabin.

Choose Your Position on the Boat Carefully

Did you know that where you stand on a boat can affect motion sickness?

Generally, the middle of the boat experiences less movement than the bow or stern.

If you’re concerned about seasickness:

• Spend time near the center of the vessel
• Avoid standing at the extreme front
• Avoid excessive movement around the boat

The more stable your position, the less motion your body typically experiences.

Avoid Looking at Your Phone

This is one of the most common causes of motion sickness on modern fishing charters.

Looking down at:

• Phones
• Tablets
• Books
• Cameras

can make symptoms worse because your eyes focus on a stationary object while your body continues to move.

If possible:

• Put the phone away
• Enjoy the scenery
• Watch for dolphins
• Focus on fishing

Your Instagram photos can wait until you’re back at the dock.

Keep Your Mind Occupied

Many people discover that actively fishing reduces their symptoms.

Why?

Because you’re:

• Watching the water
• Tracking your line
• Looking at the horizon
• Staying mentally engaged

Guests who sit and worry about becoming seasick often notice symptoms more quickly than those who focus on enjoying the experience.

Fishing itself can be one of the best distractions available.

Natural Remedies for Seasickness

Some anglers prefer natural options.

Popular choices include:

Ginger

Ginger has been used for generations to help reduce nausea.

Options include:

• Ginger chews
• Ginger candies
• Ginger tea
• Ginger supplements

Peppermint

Some people find peppermint helpful for settling the stomach.

Acupressure Wristbands

Motion sickness wristbands apply pressure to specific points believed to help reduce nausea.

Results vary from person to person, but many boaters use them successfully.

What If You Start Feeling Seasick?

Even with preparation, symptoms can occasionally occur.

If you begin feeling nauseated:

Tell the Crew

Don’t try to “tough it out.”

Experienced charter captains and crews have seen seasickness countless times and can often suggest helpful strategies.

Move to Fresh Air

Position yourself where you can feel the breeze.

Look at the Horizon

Avoid looking down.

Stay Hydrated

Take small sips of water.

Remain Calm

Symptoms often improve when addressed early.

The sooner you take action, the easier it may be to recover.

Are Certain Fishing Trips Better for Sensitive Guests?

The answer depends on the day and ocean conditions.

Nearshore fishing trips often involve:

• Shorter travel times
• Less offshore exposure
• Easier access to land

Longer offshore trips may encounter larger swells, though many days are surprisingly calm.

When booking your charter, it’s perfectly acceptable to discuss concerns about seasickness.

Experienced captains can often provide guidance based on seasonal conditions and current forecasts.

Does Everyone Get Seasick?

No.

In fact, many first-time charter guests discover they feel perfectly fine.

Others may experience mild discomfort that quickly passes.

Even people who have experienced motion sickness in the past often enjoy successful fishing charters after taking preventative measures.

The fear of becoming seasick is frequently worse than the actual experience.

Don’t Let Seasickness Keep You From Fishing

One of the biggest regrets we hear from visitors is waiting too long to book a fishing charter because they were worried about motion sickness.

Murrells Inlet offers some of the best fishing opportunities along the South Carolina coast. From nearshore reefs to offshore fishing grounds, there’s an incredible variety of species and experiences available throughout the year.

By preparing properly, most anglers can dramatically reduce their chances of experiencing seasickness and focus instead on what really matters:

• Catching fish
• Spending time with family and friends
• Enjoying South Carolina’s coastal beauty
• Creating memories during their Myrtle Beach vacation

At Myrtle Beach Sport Fishing, we want every guest to have an enjoyable experience on the water. A little preparation before your trip can go a long way toward ensuring your fishing adventure is remembered for the fish you caught—not how you felt.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or planning your first fishing charter in Murrells Inlet, don’t let concerns about seasickness stop you from experiencing one of the most exciting activities on the Grand Strand.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to prevent seasickness on a fishing charter?

The best approach is prevention. Get plenty of sleep, eat a light meal, stay hydrated, and take motion sickness medication before boarding if needed.

Should I take Dramamine before a fishing charter?

Many guests find Dramamine helpful. Follow package directions and take it before symptoms begin. Consult your healthcare provider if you have questions.

Is it better to fish on an empty stomach?

No. A light meal before your trip is generally recommended because an empty stomach can make nausea worse.

Where should I stand on a fishing boat if I’m prone to seasickness?

The center of the boat usually experiences less motion than the front or back and may help reduce symptoms.

Does looking at the horizon help seasickness?

Yes. Focusing on the horizon helps your brain process motion more effectively and can reduce feelings of nausea.

Are fishing charters in Murrells Inlet safe for people who get motion sickness?

Yes. Many guests who are concerned about motion sickness successfully enjoy fishing charters by preparing ahead of time and following preventative measures.