Sea Sickness Policy

Helping You Avoid Sea Sickness

We want every guest to enjoy a safe and comfortable sailing experience. To reduce the chance of sea sickness, we recommend:

  • Eat lightly before sailing – Avoid heavy, greasy, or acidic foods right before departure.

  • Stay hydrated – Drink water, but limit alcohol and caffeine.

  • Get plenty of rest the night prior to your sail - Fatigue will amplify the symptoms of sea sickness.

  • Consider motion sickness remedies – Over-the-counter options such as Dramamine®, Bonine®, or natural remedies like ginger may help. Take them before boarding, as directed.

    • Always consult your doctor when considering remedies of any kind

  • Choose your seat wisely – The cockpit and mid-ship areas experience less motion than the bow.

  • Look at the horizon – Focusing on a fixed point helps your body adjust to motion.

  • Bring personal remedies – Wristbands, patches, or other methods that work for you.

Our crew will do their best to help you stay comfortable during your trip.

Refund Policy for Sea Sickness

Sea conditions and motion are a natural part of sailing, and every guest responds differently. For this reason:

  • No refunds are offered due to sea sickness.

  • Guests who feel unwell may rest on board or request to return to port early, but trips cut short for sea sickness will not be refunded.

  • By booking with Esperanza Sailing Club, you acknowledge and accept this policy.

Weather Policy

Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. All sailing trips with Esperanza Sailing Club are conducted according to safe weather limits based on the National Weather Service (NWS) marine forecast for Vieques and surrounding waters.

Operating Limits

  • Maximum Wind: 15 knots

  • Maximum Seas: 4 feet

  • Forecasts above these limits will result in cancellation or rescheduling at the captain’s discretion.

Decision-Making

  • We review the official National Weather Service forecast before every trip.

  • Final decisions are made by the captain on the day of sailing, based on conditions and safety.

  • The captain has full authority to delay departure, alter the itinerary, or cancel if conditions exceed limits or are expected to worsen.

Refund & Reschedule Policy

  • If we cancel due to weather: Guests may reschedule at no cost or receive a full refund.

  • If the trip begins and weather changes while underway: The captain may shorten or adjust the trip for safety. In these cases, partial refunds are not guaranteed but will be considered depending on circumstances.

  • If a guest chooses not to sail despite conditions being within limits: This will be treated as a guest cancellation (no refund).

Guest Comfort

  • Even in safe conditions, some guests may feel uncomfortable with motion or sea state. Please review our [Sea Sickness Policy] before booking and plan accordingly.