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Madeira Fishing

Tier 2 logistics

Seasickness on Madeira Fishing Charters

Sport-fishing trips are the most seasickness-prone format on Madeira boats — long offshore stretches, slow trolling speeds (rolling motion), eyes-on-the-horizon time replaced with eyes-on-the-rod time. Below: honest prevention.

By Miguel Pereira, licensed sea captain · Last updated

Quick rule of thumb

If you've ever felt seasick — even on a calm-day boat tour — take medication one hour before departure. Sport-fishing trolling motion is worse than most other boat formats. Don't wait to see how you feel.

Why fishing trips are worse

  • Slow trolling speeds (6-9 knots) create more rolling motion than fast cruising
  • Long offshore time — no land-orientation cue for hours
  • Eyes on the rod, not the horizon — your inner ear and eyes disagree
  • Diesel exhaust from the boat's engine smell adds to the queasiness
  • Big-game days are 8-10 hours of this. Bottom-fishing half-days are easier.

Medication that works

  • Cinnarizine (Stugeron): the Portuguese standard — over-the-counter at any pharmacy. €4-7. Take 30-60 min before departure.
  • Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine): US/UK standard.
  • Scopolamine patch (Scopoderm): prescription-only — apply behind the ear 4 hours before. Best for severe cases or multi-day big-game charters.
  • Ginger capsules: mild benefit, useful as complement.
  • Sea-Band acupressure wristbands: cheap, no side-effects, helps some.

What doesn't work alone: ginger ale, "fresh air at the bow", eating crackers — these help slightly but won't compensate for skipping meds.

On-board tactics

  • Sit mid-ship, low. Avoid the bow during transit, the stern during fights.
  • Stay outside on deck. Indoor cabins amplify the rolling sensation.
  • Look at the horizon between trolling cycles. Avoid phone screens.
  • Eat a light meal 1-2 hours before. Empty stomach is worse, not better. Avoid dairy + greasy food.
  • Stay hydrated. Sip water consistently.
  • If you start feeling it: stand up, look at the horizon, breathe slowly. Don't fight a fish from the chair while feeling sick — let someone else take it.

When to bail

If the morning forecast shows 20+ knot wind, swell over 2.5m, and you're prone to seasickness — reschedule. Most operators allow 12-hour-before rescheduling at no charge. A bottom-fishing half-day is much easier on a rough day than a full big-game.

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