How long can your equilibrium be off after a cruise?

Ugh, that wobbly feeling after a cruise! How long does it last? I remember one time, coming back from a Caribbean cruise… the ship was ROCKING. I mean, really rocking, those last few days. You know, when you’re so used to the sway that you don’t even realize it anymore? Yeah, that.

Most people, thankfully, are back to normal within a day or so. Like, they step off the ship, maybe a little unsteady at first, but then poof – gone! I wish I was one of those people. But sometimes, and this is the WORST, you get that weird rocking sensation for weeks. Weeks! It’s called “mal de debarquement syndrome,” which sounds so… fancy. But it’s not fancy, trust me. It’s like the world is still moving even when it’s not. Super disorienting.

I’ve heard some people say it can even last months, can you believe it? Thankfully, mine never lasted that long, but even a few weeks of that weird swaying feeling is enough to drive you nuts! Imagine trying to work, or even just walk down the street, feeling like you’re still on a boat. It’s… unsettling, to say the least. I remember reading somewhere – maybe it was a medical article online? – that it’s more common in women, and especially after longer cruises. Makes sense, I guess, the longer you’re exposed to the motion, the more your brain gets used to it. Right? Anyway, if you experience it for an extended period, definitely talk to a doctor. It’s not fun, but it’s usually temporary… eventually.