First, I have had vertigo twice in my life... the first time it only lasted a week, but I was in bed the whole time and pretty much couldn't move without vomiting. The second time I had it for almost a year; pretty bad for about 2-3 weeks (although I could still function without getting sick) and the rest of the year it was somewhat mild or would come and go. I did travel to Hawaii when I had vertigo and was okay, but we weren't on a ship. I know it's a little different. Meclizine made me way too drowsy so I opted out.
On the Scopolamine patch, I had tried to get some for a cruise last month. Same problem in California. I called several pharmacies who all said they didn't have it. But when I finally called a CVS in the neighboring town, she said it is only the generic that is backordered and they had plenty of brand name! Had to pay a lot more, but was worth it not to worry.