Even the most scenic Norwegian cruise can be spoiled by a queasy stomach. Here’s what you need to know about seasickness before setting sail along Norway’s breathtaking but unpredictable coastline.
Cruising the Norwegian coastline is a bucket list travel experience. From the towering fjords of the west to the wild Arctic landscapes of the north, Norway's coastal waters offer unforgettable scenery and a unique perspective on this spectacular country.
But for first-time cruisers in Norway, there’s a common concern that can take the shine off: seasickness.
While many cruise travellers experience calm conditions and barely feel a ripple, others may encounter rougher seas that can quickly lead to discomfort, especially when travelling out of high season.
My Experience With Seasickness in Norway
As someone who regularly sails the Norwegian coast, I’ve become accustomed to the gentle rocking of the ship, and rougher days no longer bother me.
That said, I always hesitate to claim I never get seasick because it has happened to me once. And it was absolutely horrific.
I don't think anyone would want me to go into details here, so let's just say I don't think I had ever felt as unwell at any point in my life before! I could barely move from my bed for 24 hours, and couldn't eat even the smallest bite of anything.
That single experience taught me a lot, not only about the unpredictability of the sea but also about how best to prepare. I’ve learned that even the slightest movement can unsettle someone new to cruising in Norway, especially if they're not mentally prepared.
The good news? There are plenty of steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of getting seasick on your Norwegian adventure. First things first, take a moment to understand what's going on.
What Actually Causes Seasickness?
Seasickness is a form of motion sickness. This can occur when your brain receives conflicting signals from your senses.
On a moving ship, your inner ear detects motion, but if your eyes are focused on a stable environment like the inside of your cabin, your brain becomes confused. This sensory mismatch can trigger nausea, dizziness, and in severe cases, vomiting or vertigo.
Fatigue, anxiety, and even poor air circulation can make the symptoms worse. And if you’re someone who gets queasy in cars, on planes, or during theme park rides, you may be more prone to seasickness at sea.
Fortunately, understanding the cause can help you manage it. Everyone reacts differently, so don’t be discouraged if one remedy doesn’t work. There are plenty of options to try until you find what suits you best.
Where Are Norway's Roughest Seas?
Norway’s long, rugged coastline means rough seas are possible anywhere—and at any time of year. However, several stretches of the coast are particularly exposed to the open ocean and are known for more frequent or severe conditions.
These areas are infamous among sailors and seasoned cruisers alike:
Stad
Jutting dramatically into the sea on the west coast, the Stad peninsula is one of Norway’s most weather-beaten headlands. Its exposure to open Atlantic swells and fierce winds makes it one of the roughest spots along the coast.
Conditions here are so consistently dangerous that the Norwegian government has approved plans to construct the world’s first ship tunnel allowing vessels to bypass the worst of the weather. It’s a strong sign of just how notorious this stretch is.
Hustadvika
Between Ålesund and Kristiansund lies Hustadvika, a shallow, exposed and rocky section of coast that has become synonymous with rough seas and maritime accidents.
Most famously, it was the site of the ‘Viking Sky' incident in March 2019, when the cruise ship lost engine power during a storm and narrowly avoided grounding, requiring a dramatic helicopter rescue of passengers.
Even in calmer conditions, this stretch can feel particularly uncomfortable due to its combination of shallow waters and ocean exposure.
Vestfjorden
Despite the name, Vestfjorden isn’t a fjord at all, but an open expanse of sea between Bodø and the Lofoten Islands. While the surrounding landscapes are stunning, this area is known for choppy waters and strong winds.
Because of its lack of protection and direct exposure to ocean swells, crossings here can be rough—especially during the winter months or in storms.
Northern coastline
As you head into the Arctic, the coastline east of Tromsø toward the North Cape and the Barents Sea becomes increasingly wild and unpredictable. This region is exposed to strong winds, fast-changing weather systems, and a harsh polar climate.
Even in summer, conditions can change rapidly. The combination of open sea and Arctic weather can make for challenging sailing conditions. Coastal ferries frequent these waters, and while they’re designed for such routes, movement is often noticeable.
Even in the fjords or close to shore, movement can be felt—especially when the wind picks up or storms roll through. So while the inside passage offers protection, don’t assume it will always be smooth sailing.
Does Your Ship Hug The Coast Or Sail At Sea?
It’s well worth checking your cruise itinerary and ship size when planning your trip. Some cruise lines like Fred Olsen can sail closer to shore with their smaller ships, using the protected inside passage along Norway’s coast.
While even near-shore waters can be bumpy in a storm, these routes generally offer calmer conditions—and more scenic cruising—than voyages that head out into the Norwegian Sea.
Larger ships may have to sail farther from the coast or take a more open-sea route between ports, particularly on longer legs of the journey. The North Sea, in particular, is notorious.
The North Sea Crossing: Expect The Unexpected
Whether you're starting your voyage in the UK, the Netherlands or elsewhere, the North Sea can make or break your first day. It's unpredictable, often rough—even in summer—and it doesn't take long to feel it.
On a recent departure from Newcastle, we were in open ocean and bobbing about within an hour of leaving port. Yet on another trip, the sea was flat as glass. You simply never know. And that's exactly why it's important to prepare.
What About The Coastal Ferries?
The famous coastal route served by Hurtigruten and Havila sails mostly in protected waters between islands and the mainland.
However, there are occasional stretches of open ocean—including all four of the notorious ones mentioned above—where conditions can feel rough, especially on these smaller vessels.
The good news? These stretches are almost always noted in the ship’s daily programme, allowing you time to prepare in advance with your dining choices, medication, bands, or a well-timed nap.
Can You Really Prevent Seasickness?
Let’s be clear: seasickness isn’t something you can completely control. It affects people differently, and even seasoned travellers can be caught out from time to time, as I've found out! But there are ways to reduce the likelihood.
Before You Sail
Pick the right cabin: Choose a cabin mid-ship and on a lower deck, where the ship’s movement is typically the least noticeable during rough seas.
Choose your itinerary carefully: Opt for itineraries with minimal sea days or that hug sheltered coastlines, especially if you're prone to motion sickness.
Speak to your doctor: Ask about preventative seasickness medication, which is most effective when taken in advance rather than once symptoms appear.
Onboard Tips
Take medication early: Don’t wait until the ship starts rocking. At this point, it's often too late. Most medication is far more effective when taken before symptoms begin to set in, and before the motion even begins.
Try pressure bands: These wristbands apply gentle pressure to specific acupressure points and can help relieve nausea for some travellers. While scientific evidence is mixed, many people find them helpful, and they have no side effects.
Watch the horizon: Go outside or a grab a seat by a large window and keep your eyes on the horizon. This helps your brain reconcile the ship’s movement with what your eyes see. If rough seas are forecast, this is a positive step you can take.
Stay hydrated and avoid heavy food: Stick to light, bland meals and avoid alcohol, greasy food, or strong smells that can make nausea worse. This might not prevent the onset of motion sickness, but it can reduce the severity of symptoms and help your body recover more quickly.
Limit alcohol: Alcohol can quickly dehydrate you and reduce your body’s ability to manage movement, increasing the risk of seasickness symptoms. If rough seas are forecast, avoiding alcohol is a wise move.
If Seasickness Strikes on a Norway Cruise
If you do begin to feel unwell, the best thing you can do is take action quickly.
Head to a quiet area mid-ship, which tends to experience the least movement, and try to sit near a window or step outside if conditions allow. Focusing on the horizon can help your brain make sense of the motion and ease the feeling of nausea.
Nibbling on dry, bland snacks such as crackers or plain biscuits can help settle your stomach. Many travellers also swear by green apples and ginger as natural remedies.
Be sure to stay hydrated by sipping water regularly, even if you’re not feeling up to eating much—dehydration can make the symptoms worse.
Avoid reading, scrolling through your phone, or watching screens, as this can heighten the sense of disorientation and make you feel even more unwell.
Try to rest in a comfortable position, and if your symptoms don’t improve, don’t hesitate to contact the ship’s medical centre. The onboard doctors and nurses are experienced in treating motion sickness and can provide professional support to help you feel better.
Enjoy Your Norway Cruise!
Cruising in Norway offers some of the most awe-inspiring views in the world—but nature doesn’t always play nice.
With sensible planning and a few precautions, most travellers can enjoy a smooth and memorable journey—even if the waves do make an appearance.
Just remember: a little preparation goes a long way, and even if the seas get rough, the landscapes will be more than worth it.
