Seasickness on the Berlenga Ferry: What to Know Before You Go

One of the most common questions for those planning to visit the Berlenga Islands is: will I get seasick on the crossing? The honest answer is: it depends — but most people feel nothing at all. Here we explain everything you need to know to travel with peace of mind.

What is the Peniche–Berlenga crossing like?

The crossing takes approximately 30 to 35 minutes and covers about 11 km across the Atlantic Ocean. The sea between Cabo Carvoeiro and Berlenga Grande can be choppy — especially with a strong north wind, typical of the Peniche coast — but most trips go smoothly.

The BerlengaTur catamaran is 18 metres long and 7 metres wide, dimensions that give it far greater stability than smaller boats. On most operating days, the crossing is smooth and uneventful.

Who tends to feel more seasick?

• People with a history of seasickness or motion sickness on transport
• Those travelling on days with stronger swell (usually September and October)
• Young children under 6
• Those travelling on a completely empty stomach or, conversely, after a heavy meal

How to prevent seasickness: 7 practical tips

1. Take preventive medication

Stugeron (cinnarizine) or Dramamine are over-the-counter medicines in Portugal that are very effective. Take it 30 to 60 minutes before boarding. For children, talk to your paediatrician about the right dose.

2. Choose a spot outside

Staying on the outer part of the catamaran, with the horizon in view, significantly reduces the feeling of seasickness. Avoid being in the closed interior without a view of the sea.

3. Eat something light before boarding

Neither an empty stomach nor a heavy meal. A piece of toast or some fruit is ideal. Avoid coffee, alcohol or fatty foods before the trip.

4. Keep your eyes on the horizon

During the crossing, focus on a fixed point in the distance — the horizon or the silhouette of the Berlenga. Avoid reading, looking at your phone or at the inside of the boat.

5. Acupressure wristbands

Acupressure wristbands (Sea-Band) press the P6 point on the wrist and can help with no side effects. Especially useful for pregnant women or those who can’t take medication.

6. Travel early in the morning

The first departures of the day generally have more favourable sea conditions. The wind tends to pick up as the day goes on.

7. Check the conditions before departure

BerlengaTur monitors the weather forecasts and only departs in safe conditions. On days with very rough seas, trips are cancelled and the amount paid is refunded in full.

What if I feel unwell during the crossing?

If you start to feel nauseous during the trip, go outside, sit down, fix your eyes on the horizon and breathe slowly. Ask the crew for help — they’re used to it and have bags available. The crossing is short: within a few minutes you reach the Berlenga and the seasickness disappears as soon as you step on land.

Is it really worth it? Yes.

The vast majority of visitors — including many who were apprehensive — arrive at the Berlenga amazed and completely forget their worry about seasickness. The island is extraordinary: sea caves, crystal-clear water, a historic fortress and unique wildlife. It more than makes up for it.

Book your trip to the Berlenga Islands

Choose the pack that best suits what you want to do on the island:

• Pack 1 – Round Trip: the quickest, ideal if you’re a little apprehensive
• Pack 2 – Caves + Ferry: includes the glass-bottom boat tour of the caves
• Pack 4 – Snorkelling + Caves + Ferry: the complete experience