A yacht trip in Tenerife is one of the best ways to experience the ocean: dolphins swimming nearby, whales in their natural habitat, and dramatic volcanic coastline views. But many people have the same concern before going out to sea: will I get seasick, and can I prevent it?
The short answer is yes — you can. In most cases, seasickness can either be avoided completely or reduced to a minimum if you understand how it works and prepare properly.
Seasickness (also known as motion sickness) is not really about the sea itself, but about how your body processes movement.
When you are on a yacht, your body feels motion while your eyes may see a relatively stable environment, such as the deck or interior. This creates conflicting signals in the brain, which can lead to symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and weakness.
The same effect can happen in cars on winding mountain roads or during turbulence on a plane.
While anyone can experience seasickness, some people are more sensitive. If you tend to feel unwell in cars, struggle with winding roads, or didn’t get enough sleep before your trip, it’s worth taking extra precautions.
Children may also be more sensitive, although they often adapt quickly.
Preparation is the key to a comfortable trip. Taking seasickness medication 30–60 minutes before departure can be very effective. In Spain, medications containing dimenhydrinate (such as Biodramina) are commonly recommended.
At a pharmacy, you can simply say:
¿Tiene algo contra el mareo por movimiento?
It’s also important not to go out on an empty stomach. A light meal is ideal, while heavy food and alcohol should be avoided. Getting enough sleep is equally important, as fatigue increases sensitivity to motion.
If possible, choose a morning trip — sea conditions are usually calmer than later in the day.
If symptoms appear, they can usually be managed quickly. Move towards the center of the yacht, where motion is less noticeable, and stay in fresh air. Looking at the horizon helps your brain process movement correctly.
Using your phone, reading, or staying inside the cabin can make things worse. Calm breathing and drinking small sips of water often help you recover.
Not all boats feel the same at sea, and this makes a big difference.
The larger and heavier the yacht, the smoother the ride. For whale watching in Tenerife, it’s best to choose mid-size or large motor yachts rather than small boats or sailing vessels.
Yachts like the Princess 440 are designed for comfort in open water, offering better stability and more space to move around.
The south coast of Tenerife — especially Costa Adeje, Los Gigantes, and Las Galletas — is known for calmer conditions.
This area is more protected from strong winds and ocean swells, making it ideal for whale and dolphin watching trips.
| Situation | What to do | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Before departure | Take medication (e.g. Biodramina) | Reduces vestibular sensitivity |
| Food | Eat lightly, avoid alcohol | Stabilizes your body |
| Timing | Choose morning trips | Fewer waves |
| On board | Stay near the center | Less motion |
| Behavior | Look at the horizon | Reduces sensory conflict |
| Avoid | Phone use or staying inside | Can worsen symptoms |
In practice, most people either don’t experience seasickness at all or only feel mild discomfort at the beginning of the trip.
With the right preparation and a suitable yacht, a sea excursion in Tenerife is usually very comfortable.
Seasickness is not a reason to skip a whale watching trip in Tenerife.
By preparing properly, choosing the right yacht, and following simple tips, you can fully enjoy the ocean and make your trip one of the highlights of your holiday.
Yes, in most cases the body adapts after 1–2 trips at sea, and seasickness symptoms become much weaker or disappear completely.
No, if you usually tolerate motion well, basic precautions are enough. Medication is an optional extra layer of protection.
Move to the center of the yacht, stay in fresh air, look at the horizon, drink small sips of water, and avoid using your phone.
The south coast of Tenerife (Costa Adeje, Los Gigantes, Las Galletas) is more protected from waves, making boat trips generally calmer.
