Rx for Smooth Sailing

Waves happen. That's the law of the sea. But cruisers are often unprepared when the ride gets bumpy.

Being proactive can stop the symptoms of seasickness before they start. Visit your family doctor before your cruise, and ask for a prescription for Transderm Scopolamine, says nurse anesthetist Christina Defour, a first-time cruiser from Washington Township, Michigan. Simply apply the tiny patch behind your ear at least four hours before you set sail. Side effects may include dry mouth and blurry vision, she says, but it's worth it not to be seasick.

Play It Safe
"Statistically, you are very, very safe aboard a cruise ship," says ICCL president Michael Crye.

Still, you should use the same common sense precautions you would for any trip. Lock your valuables away, either in your room safe or at the purser's desk. Set rules for your kids, and ask them to check in regularly. Use extra caution when going ashore, where most mishaps occur. If you do experience problems, report them to the cruise line immediately.

Insider's Tip: Looking for a real bargain? In the spring and fall, cruise lines shuffle ships between ports. You'll spend more days at sea, but you can often book a "repositioning cruise" at a greatly reduced price.

Insider's Tip: Before leaving home, make copies of your passport, driver's license, credit cards, and travel documents, and leave them with a family member or trusted friend. If you encounter an emergency, your important personal information will be easily accessible.

Insider's Tip: Pack your swimsuit in your carry on. When you get to the ship, you won't have to wait for your luggage to arrive before hitting the pool.

Insider's Tip: Pack your cruise documents in your carry-on bag. You'll need to present them, along with proof of citizenship, when checking in at the cruise terminal.

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