A Beginner’s Guide to Pelagic Birding (and Why It’s Worth the Seasickness)

Sooner or later, most birders feel it: the tug of the horizon. 

It might start with a page in a field guide unmarked by your typical observation notes. It may be a tempting eBird report filled with species that cross oceans while the rest of us go about our everyday lives. Eventually, you realize that the only way to add these almost legendary species to your life list is to leave the shore behind and head out to sea—a practice called pelagic birding.

The stretch from late summer into fall is prime time for pelagic outings. From August through October, seabird diversity is at its peak across much of North America. Migration is underway, species from the Southern Hemisphere are spending the northern summer (their non-breeding season) in our offshore waters, and ocean features such as upwellings are concentrating fish and other prey, bringing large numbers of seabirds together and improving the odds of a memorable trip offshore. On the right day you might encounter albatrosses, shearwaters, storm-petrels, jaegers, and other elusive species. 

Of course, pelagic birding isn’t all lifers and rarities. A voyage offshore can bring chilly winds, blazing sun, sea spray, and rolling waves, sometimes all before lunch. Then there’s that other specter looming over any ocean voyage. Pelagic birders have a saying: There are two kinds of people at sea—those who get seasick and those who will.

Fortunately, a little preparation goes a long way. If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider bringing physical aids, such as acupressure wrist bands, or taking preventive medication before you embark. If in doubt, consult a medical professional before your trip. Get a good night’s sleep, and once underway eat lightly and consistently and be sure to stay hydrated. And save the celebratory drinks for when you’re back at the dock, not the night before. 

Once aboard, spend as much time as possible on deck and breathe deeply. Keep your eyes on the horizon, avoid staring at your phone, and listen to the captain’s advice on where to stand if you’re feeling ill. Thankfully, the birds themselves often provide a welcome distraction. And if they’re not cooperating, chatting with your fellow birders can help take your mind off your stomach.

Sure, there’s potential for dis­comfort, but pelagic birding offers something increasingly rare in our digital, developed world: the chance to venture into a place that still feels wild, vast, and full of surprises.

Choose a reputable operator and bring layers, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. Most important, embrace the uncertainty. Not every pelagic produces a rarity, but nearly every trip delivers something memorable, and no two are ever the same. One day you might see an albatross soaring smoothly over the waves; on another, a flock of shearwaters hovering above feeding whales. For a few hours, you’re a visitor in a realm that belongs to seabirds, and that is well worth the voyage. 

Must-Haves: What to Bring on a Pelagic Birding Trip

• Layers: Conditions can change quickly offshore. Bring a warm layer, windbreaker, and rain jacket, even if the forecast looks perfect. Extra clothing is always a good idea because there are plenty of ways to get wet or dirty on a boat. For cooler trips, lightweight gloves and rechargeable hand warmers can make a big difference.
• Non-slip shoes: A sturdy pair of shoes with good traction will help you stay comfortable and steady on a wet, moving deck. Leave the sandals at home if possible. A pitching boat can make even simple movements unpredictable, and getting stepped on is a real possibility.
• Seasickness essentials: If you are prone to motion sickness, consider preventive medication (such as Dramamine or other options recommended by a medical professional) or acupressure bands if they work for you. Bring whatever supplies help you stay comfortable.
• Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are vital. Boats offer scant shade, and sunlight reflected off the water can be intense.
• Food and water: Bring plenty of water and easy-to-eat snacks. Small, frequent meals are often easier on the stomach than a large meal before or during the trip. Many birders bring a small, soft cooler, and coffee drinkers should bring their own thermos.
• Binoculars and optics: Bring your preferred binoculars with a secure strap or harness so they stay accessible and in place while the boat is moving. Leave the spotting scope in the car; there is often excellent birding around harbors and mudflats before or after departure. A microfiber cloth and lens cleaner are handy for dealing with salt spray.
• Camera protection: Pelagic trips offer excellent photography opportunities. Protect your equipment with a waterproof sleeve, plastic bag, or other cover, especially in rough conditions.
• A small dry bag or waterproof backpack: Keep keys, phones, wallets, extra layers, medications, and other essentials protected from spray and easy to carry on and off the vessel.
• A field guide: Bring a book that can survive being packed into a bag and exposed to the elements. Bags on deck often get wet bottoms. If you use digital guides, download everything you need before departure since cell service is often unavailable offshore.
• Your eBird username: Trip leaders typically handle the final checklist and trip report. Providing your eBird username ensures the sightings can be shared with you once the report is complete.

This story originally ran in the Fall 2026 issue as “Set Sail.” To receive our print magazine, become a member by making a donation today.