I get seasick.
'Mal di mare' — mal di MA-re. Three separate words; the 'r' in 'mare' is lightly rolled.
Say this to a pharmacist before boarding to request medication, or to ferry staff if you feel unwell during the crossing. You can also use it to explain why you prefer the upper deck.
'Mal di' + noun is the Italian pattern for types of sickness: 'mal di mare' (seasickness), 'mal di testa' (headache), 'mal di stomaco' (stomach ache), 'mal di schiena' (back pain). 'Avere' (to have) is used with all of them: 'ho il mal di testa'.
Ha qualcosa per il mal di mare?
Do you have something for seasickness?
Ask at the pharmacy before boarding.
Mi sento male.
I feel unwell.
General statement of feeling ill during the crossing.
Dove posso stare all'aria aperta?
Where can I stay in the open air?
Fresh air on deck helps with seasickness.
Xamamina (dimenhydrinate) is the most popular over-the-counter seasickness remedy in Italy, available in any pharmacy without a prescription. Italians also recommend ginger biscuits (biscotti allo zenzero) as a natural remedy for mild nausea at sea.