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Passenger Aboard Cruise Liner Reveals What Happens in a 'Pirate Drill'

A video recording of an announcement on the Queen Mary 2 ocean liner explaining the protocol in the event of a pirate attack as the ship sails through the Suez Canal has gone viral, garnering over 4 million views.

In an earlier video , the cruise passenger, who manages the TikTok account Horatio Hedgehog, revealed a letter signed by the captain informing passengers about a pirate drill the following day as the ship was due to enter the famous canal.

The page appears to be documenting a round-the-world cruise from the perspective of a stuffed hedgehog called Horatio, and who the person is behind the camera isn't quite clear.

@redwing20024 #queenmary2 #horatiohedgehog #piratealley #qm2 #suezcanal ♬ original sound - Horatio Hedgehog

In the video, a woman and other passengers can be seen sitting in the hallway of the cruise ship while the video text reads: "On QM2 about to enter the Suez Canal. Trying not to panic."

The announcement says: "We will be operating at a higher level of security alertness. QM2 will be routed through an internationally recommended transit corridor and will be under the protection of an international taskforce assigned by UN mandate to protect merchant ships from a piracy threat we have also embarked a Royal Navy Liaison officer on board who will assist us during the transit and is in contact with coalition naval assistance if required."

The Queen Mary 2, also known as the QM2, is a British transatlantic ocean liner and as of 2022, she is the only ocean liner, as opposed to a cruise ship, still in service. Ocean liners undertake what's known as "line voyages," from point A to B across a large expanse of open water, while cruise ships hug the coast and sail between ports, regularly stopping.

According to website of the Curnard Line, which owns the QM2, the 2023 world cruise departed on January 11 from Southampton and will go through 18 countries, 31 ports, 18 UNESCO sites, with overnights in Dubai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Sydney and Cape Town, including the transit through the Suez Canal.

The Cruise Passenger publication says: "There were only six reports of pirates attempting to attack cruise ships over the last 10 years – in fact there has never been a successful pirate attack on a cruise ship. However, this doesn't mean cruise ships aren't prepared for the worst."

Most of the trouble occurs in the Gulf of Aden, a deepwater gulf of the Indian Ocean between Yemen, the Arabian Sea, Djibouti and Somalia.

The "pirate drill" safety procedures include no one being allowed on the outer decks and passengers having to sit in the corridors, away from windows to reduce the risk of being shot, all the outdoor parties being moved inside, having extra military support onboard and making sure all lights are out on the ship at night.

Water cannons and sonic boom technology are also defense mechanisms.

What Did TikTok Say?

Siobhan McCullagh shared: "I've worked on a cruise ship going through the Suez Canal before! Pirates are unlikely to attack a cruise ship due to the amount of people onboard."

User Jon Jo said: "Sailing through the Suez Canal with Royal Navy protection. Standard procedure while sailing in pirate waters," while Jayme shared: "Been through there on Royal Navy ships many times. The threat is real, pirates can be brutal."

Newsweek has reached out to Horatio Hedgehog for comment.

Ships Getting Stuck in the Suez Canal and the Fallout of Blockages
Russia Military Says It Drove Pirates Away From Ship Off Africa Coast
The U.S. Shouldn't Turn Back the Clock in Somalia

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About the writer

Leonie Helm is a Newsweek Life Reporter and is based in London, UK. Her focus is reporting on all things life, from abolishing the monarchy to travel to aesthetic medicine. Leonie joined Newsweek in 2022 from the Aesthetics Journal where she was the Deputy Editor, and had previously worked as a journalist for TMRW Magazine and Foundry Fox. She is a graduate of Cardiff University where she gained a MA in Journalism. Languages: English.

You can get in touch with Leonie by emailing [email protected]

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Pirates Attack Cruise Ship

November 5, 2005 / 12:47 PM EST / AP

Pirates fired a rocket-propelled grenade and machine guns Saturday in an attack on a luxury cruise liner off the east African coast, the vessel's owners said.

Two armed boats approached the Seabourn Spirit about 100 miles off the coast of Somalia and fired as the boats' occupants attempted to get onboard, said Bruce Good, a spokesman for Miami-based Seabourn Cruise Line, a subsidiary of Carnival Corp.

The ship outran them and changed its course.

"Our suspicion at this time is that the motive was theft," Good said, adding that the crew had been trained for "various scenarios, including people trying to get on the ship that you don't want on the ship."

CBS News correspondent Randall Pinkston reports that while the ship's captain took evasive maneuvers, the passengers were ushered below deck to the ship's dining room.

"He was, to some extent, steering the ship to create waves to overturn the boats and at one point he nearly rammed one of the boats," said passenger Norman Fisher.

The attackers never got close enough to board the Spirit, but one member of the 161-person crew was injured by shrapnel, said Debrah Natansohn, president of the cruise line.

Press Association, the British news agency, said passengers awoke to the sound of gunfire as two 25-foot inflatable boats approached the liner.

Edith Laird of Seattle, who was traveling on the ship with her daughter and a friend, told British Broadcasting Corp. TV in an e-mail that her daughter saw the pirates out of their window.

"There were at least three rocket-propelled grenades that hit the ship, one in a state room," Laird wrote. "We had no idea that this ship could move as fast as it did and (the captain) did his best to run down the pirates."

None of the vessel's 151 passengers, mostly Americans with some Australians and Europeans, were injured, Good said.

The Spirit had been bound for Mombasa, Kenya, at the end of a 16-day voyage from Alexandria, Egypt. It was expected to reach the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean on Monday, and then continue on its previous schedule to Singapore, company officials said.

The 10,000-ton cruise ship, registered in the Bahamas, sustained minor damage, Good said. "They took some fire, but it's safe to sail," he said.

Piracy along the Somalia coast is common — several ships a month are attacked or hijacked, with valuables stolen and crews held for ransom.

Two Cruise Ships Brace For Potential Pirate Attacks

Richard Simms

May 1, 2019
4.1K shares

If you think pirates only exist on attractions at Disneyland, think again: Two different cruise ships have recently taken fairly extreme measures to make sure those aboard are prepared should pirates try and come aboard. And one of those ships happens to be Royal Caribbean’s brand new Spectrum Of The Seas.

Passengers Go Through “Pirate Drills”

Before venturing into the waters off Somalia — a known hot-spot for pirate-related activity — passengers on board the Sun Princess underwent exercises designed to help them be prepared should the unthinkable happen. According to Cruise Arabia Online , a site covering industry news out of the Middle East and Africa, passengers — who’d been warned in advance that the exercises would take place and told what to do — heard the captain announce that the vessel was under attack. They then took “shelter” in the interior corridors.

The ship is currently doing a 99-day World Cruise, and is chartered by one of the largest travel companies in Japan. This is not the first time such precautions have been taken aboard this particular ship. Last year, during a 104-day World Cruise, passengers experienced a 10-day, dusk-to-dawn lock-down which saw outdoor events canceled and an order for curtains be drawn after dark and lights dimmed to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

Spectrum Of The Seas Takes Precautions

Likewise, Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum Of The Seas is taking no risks as the brand new ship journeys from the German shipyard to China, where she is slated to spend her inaugural season. According to a blog posted by Laura, a passenger currently on board, the crew led their guests through a “Safe Haven drill” designed to deal with the unlikely event that pirates manage to board the mega-ship.

“On the announcement of the code word Safe Haven over the [ship’s loudspeakers],” she explains, “passengers are instructed to move away from the windows and outside areas of the cruise ship to head towards the middle of the ship.

READ MORE: New Royal Caribbean Ship Could Be The Largest in the World

Laura explained that while the ship goes through the Gulf of Aden, numerous precautions were being taken, including the closing of the Promenade Deck (day and night) until May 2nd; the open pool decks being off-limits after dark; passengers being asked to close the curtains and turn off the lights in their staterooms after dusk; and tables in the buffet being moved away from windows. She added that armed security officers had been brought on board to offer further protection should the need arise.

“The captain,” she writes, “was also happy to inform us that the Spectrum Of The Seas has the latest technology and engineering to be able to detect pirates and the capability to accelerate away from potential threats.”

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Do pirates attack cruise ships? How cruise lines protect passengers

Pirates remain a real threat in certain regions, posing challenges for cruise ships navigating these waters. Over the years, cruise lines have developed extensive measures to protect passengers and crew from potential pirate attacks, ensuring a safe and secure journey.

While there have been only a few reported incidents over the past decade, the cruise industry takes the risk seriously. Cruise ships implement rigorous safety procedures and deploy advanced technologies to mitigate threats and safeguard passengers.

Safety procedures on cruise ships

Cruise ships enact various safety protocols to enhance security when sailing through pirate-prone waters. These measures include:

Outer Deck Restrictions: Access to the outer decks is restricted to prevent unauthorised entry and minimise the risk of pirates boarding the ship.
Pirate Drills: Regular pirate drills are conducted for all guests, ensuring everyone is prepared to respond effectively in case of an emergency involving pirate activity.
Indoor Activities: Outdoor activities are moved indoors to minimise exposure to potential threats, providing a safer environment for passengers and crew.
Additional Military Support: Cruise ships may deploy additional military support on board, such as armed guards or naval escorts, to bolster security measures and deter pirate attacks.
Nighttime Precautions: All the ship’s lights are darkened at night, enhancing stealth and security during vulnerable periods to reduce visibility and avoid attracting unwanted attention.

These comprehensive precautions are essential for maintaining the safety and security of passengers and crew members, ensuring a safe voyage through potentially dangerous waters.

Real-life experiences: Sailing through pirate-prone waters

Passengers and crew members have shared their experiences sailing through pirate-infested waters. Carolyne Jasinski, a luxury cruise passenger, recounted her voyage through the Gulf of Aden , where the threat of piracy loomed. She described the seriousness with which the crew treated the situation, including dusk-to-dawn lockouts and constant vigilance.

“It was made very clear on the Sea Princess , very quickly, that this pirate threat was not something to be joked about.”

“Any remaining smirks soon disappeared as the pirate drill alarm sounded. The crew was instructed to move on to their designated muster stations.”

Ms Jasinski also said that 10 of the cruise’s 104 days at sea were spent in a dusk-to-dawn lockout as the ship sailed through the high-risk waters.

“The captain said we could outrun any pirate ships. But just in case, officers were on watch 24/7, and fire hoses were at the ready on Deck Seven. If the high-pressure spray didn’t stop wannabe intruders, the detergent solution should. No entry here for those slippery little suckers.

“If all else failed, there was the sonic boom. We were told it can knock pirates off their feet or ladders if they get too close.”

Keeping cruise passengers safe

Royal Caribbean crew member and Tiktok user ‘ericafromamerica’ also shared what her ship did to keep passengers safe while sailing through the pirate hotspot.

@ericafromamerica sailing the world can get crazy #dreamjob #bucketlist #cruise #pirates #tiktoktravel #fyp #foryou #crew #learnontiktok #learnontiktok ♬ Pirates of the Caribbean – Ralimsa

Advanced pirate defence technologies

Cruise lines are at the forefront of employing cutting-edge technologies to deter pirate attacks and ensure the safety of passengers and crew during voyages through high-risk areas. These innovative solutions encompass a range of sophisticated equipment and strategic measures designed to repel potential threats effectively.

LRAD (Long-Range Acoustic Device)

One of the primary defensive tools cruise ships employ is the LRAD or Long-Range Acoustic Device. This state-of-the-art technology emits a high-pitched, directional noise that can disorient and repel potential attackers. LRAD systems are strategically positioned on cruise ships to create a sonic barrier against pirate threats. The intensity of the sound emitted can be adjusted based on the proximity of the danger, providing a non-lethal yet highly effective means of deterring pirate attacks.

Nemesis 5000 Water Gun

Developed by the Security Alliance for Effective Solutions, the Nemesis 5000 represents a significant advancement in maritime security technology. This robust water cannon can shoot a 360-degree curtain of water at speeds of up to 128 km/h. Deployed as a non-lethal weapon, the Nemesis 5000 is a formidable deterrent against pirate activities, preventing unauthorised access to the ship. Its ability to deliver a high-pressure stream of water creates a formidable barrier that pirates are unlikely to overcome, further enhancing the vessel’s security measures.

Razor Wire Barriers

To fortify the physical defences of cruise ships, razor wire barriers may be installed around the outer edges of handrails. These sharp and densely packed wires act as physical deterrents, making it exceedingly difficult for pirates to use grappling hooks or other climbing mechanisms to board the vessel. Razor wire barriers effectively reinforce the ship’s perimeter, providing additional protection against unauthorised intrusions.

Covert Defence Measures

In addition to overt security measures, cruise ships may also employ covert defence tactics to discreetly detect and neutralise pirate threats. While specific details are often confidential for security reasons, reports suggest that cruise ships may utilise advanced surveillance systems, including night vision technology and thermal imaging cameras, to monitor and track suspicious activities near the vessel.

Highly trained security personnel, including snipers positioned at strategic vantage points, serve as a formidable deterrent against potential pirate attacks.

Fighting piracy

Despite ongoing concerns about pirate attacks, cruise ships employ proactive safety measures and advanced technologies to ensure passengers’ peace of mind. Cruise lines prioritise passenger safety through robust security protocols, state-of-the-art defence systems, and collaborative efforts with international naval forces. While piracy remains a threat, the industry’s resilience and preparedness are evident in its ability to effectively repel attacks and navigate challenging waters.

Research before you book

Check out the rest of Cruise Passenger to l earn more about cruise safety measures and confidently book your next voyage.

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Pirate attack shows ships’ vulnerability, but cruise lines defend security plans

Cruise lines say their crews and ships are well prepared for attacks like the one off the coast of Somalia last weekend, when pirates fired...

MIAMI — Cruise lines say their crews and ships are well prepared for attacks like the one off the coast of Somalia last weekend, when pirates fired rocket-propelled grenades and machine guns at the luxury vessel Seabourn Spirit. The ship safely evaded two pirate boats after using an earsplitting sonic weapon, changing course and heading out to sea.

But security experts say that despite all the preparations, cruise liners remain vulnerable to attacks like this or the deadly bombing by al-Qaida-linked militants of the USS Cole in Yemen five years ago. The Cole was rammed by an explosives-laden boat in the Mideast port city of Aden; 17 U.S. sailors were killed and 37 were injured.

“No ship apart from a naval vessel is really prepared to protect against a waterborne assault of the sort against the Cole,” said Kim Petersen, president of maritime security consultant SeaSecure and a former cruise line security official. “Even those ships that are best equipped to cope with such a threat, in the case of the Cole, are in a difficult situation.”

Cruise industry officials said the Spirit’s successful efforts to repel the attackers validate security plans that all ships must have in place under U.S. and international law. They point out that no passenger was injured on the Spirit and just one crew member had minor injuries.

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International Council of Cruise Lines : www.iccl.org

Seabourn Cruise Line : www.seabourn.com

“Cruising is and has been one of the most safe vacations that you can engage in and will remain so,” said Michael Crye, president of the International Council of Cruise Lines, an industry lobbying group.

Cruise lines are in constant communication with authorities on land, and the U.S. military responded to the attack on the Spirit, Crye said. The U.S. counterterrorism task force for the Horn of Africa is based in Djibouti, which borders Somalia.

But he also noted that attacks on cruise ships are rare — this was the first since Palestinian terrorists hijacked the Achille Lauro in the Mediterranean in 1985 and killed a wheelchair-bound American.

Cruise lines are reluctant to talk about their specific security plans, fearing that the information could help those willing to pounce on ships. Crye said companies are permitted to arm their crews, but he wouldn’t say if they did.

Kenneth Bissonnette, staff manager for surveillance and security at Carnival Cruise Lines, told The Associated Press in March 2004 that security personnel for the world’s largest cruise line didn’t carry firearms, but had defenses like pepper spray. He said the company’s security staff recruited heavily among Gurkhas, elite Nepalese soldiers renowned for their fearlessness.

Bissonnette declined to comment last week. Tim Gallagher, a spokesman for Seabourn’s parent company Carnival Corp., declined to comment on specific security procedures.

Cruise lines are reluctant to have armed guards onboard because that might hurt their image with some passengers, said William Callahan, president of maritime security consultant Unitel. He proposes that they should have armed speedboats as escorts when traveling in dangerous areas.

Other known defenses on cruise ships include high-pressure firehoses used to prevent intruders from boarding ships. That method was also used by the Spirit’s crew. Seabourn Cruise Line, also has bought high-tech sonic weapons, which were developed for the U.S. military after the Cole bombing.

The Long Range Acoustical Device sends earsplitting noise in a concentrated beam. Its maker, American Technology Corp. of San Diego, doesn’t know of any cruise lines other than Miami-based Seabourn that have installed them, said A.J. Ballard, the company’s director of military operations.

But Callahan questioned why the Spirit was about 100 miles off Somalia, which has no effective government and is ruled by warlords. The International Maritime Bureau has for several months warned ships to stay at least 150 miles away from Somalia’s coast because of an increase in pirate attacks.

“That place is teeming with high-speed stolen vessels,” Callahan said.

Many cruise lines have tried to avoid the area, but vessels going from the Mediterranean to Asia or Africa must pass through there.

Seabourn spokesman Bruce Good said the line hasn’t decided whether to change its routes. But he said the Spirit was on its highest alert while there.

“As far as we’re concerned, the incident is behind us. We are now in the next phase, getting people where they need to be and continuing with what we do for a living, which as make people happy on board,” he said.

Seabourn has said it appeared the attackers were pirates whose motivation was robbery. But Petersen doubted that was the case, because he said pirates would have tried to disable the ship’s steering and propulsion if they wanted to get onboard. Witnesses said the attackers shot grenades toward passengers.

Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said Monday the attackers might have been terrorists.

Either way, cruise lines fear that their image as safe havens of fun could be tarnished. After the Achille Lauro hijacking, the eastern Mediterranean cruise market had a sharp decline in traffic. The Sept. 11, 2001, attacks forced cruise companies to offer heavy discounts to lure leery passengers onto ships, and ticket prices are only now getting back to pre-attack levels as the industry is having a year of record profits and traffic.

Because no one was killed in the Spirit attack, travelers probably won’t be spooked, said Jeff Sharlach, chairman and CEO of The Jeffrey Group, a public relations firm that runs crisis management teams for companies like FedEx Corp.

EILMELDUNG — __proto_headline__

Attack on the MSC Melody Passengers Fought Pirates with Tables and Deck Chairs

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Ciro Pinto was certain he was right. The captain was relaxed as he enjoyed a drink at the bar of the MSC Melody cruise ship, chatting on Saturday afternoon with two South African passengers. The women asked him if the bands of marauding pirates posed a problem for the cruise. Never, the experienced seaman told them. After all, the ship was far -- 1,000 sea miles -- away from the Somali coast as it made its course across the Indian Ocean, a few hundred miles south of the Seychelles, on a 22-day cruise from Durban, South Africa, to Genoa, Italy. It was unimaginable, virtually impossible even, that flip-flop wearing pirates could attack them here.

But the small talk came to an abrupt end. According to eyewitnesses, two passengers came screaming into the bar and gesticulated wildly as they addressed the captain. A speed boat had appeared at the stern and several armed men were preparing to board the cruise ship, they said. One was already trying to scale the vessel. Several passengers were desperately grabbing deck chairs and tables and hurling them down at the men trying to board the ship.

That's when the first shots were fired. It was also the point at which the captain understood what was happening -- his ship was being attacked by pirates.

Pinto radioed an alarm code to his crew and ordered all passengers to go below deck, immediately. He then ran to the bridge. The pirates continued to try to board the ship. Pinto opened the safe and handed pistols to the security guards on board. He then called on the helmsman to steer the ship on a zig-zag course to fend off the pirates by creating large waves. The security guards, who by then had arrived at the ship's stern, fired two warning shots into the air.

Within a few minutes, the acute danger appeared to have been averted. The fact that the cruise ship's crew were armed apparently surprised the pirates. According to the account given by the MSC Cruises company, the pirates then rode away in their speedboat, but not before firing a few salvos at the ship with their AK-47 rifles. Window panes were shattered and bullets thudded into the ship's side.

"It was like war," the captain proudly announced on an Italian radio station the next morning. The crew and security personnel had defended themselves from the attack professionally, he said.

"You Can't Hold Back Pirates with Tables and Chairs"

This may read like the script of a Hollywood thriller, but new reports from eyewitnesses show that the attack on Saturday evening was considerably more dramatic than accounts provided so far would suggest. Pierfrancesco Vago, head of the Italian shipping company MSC, confirmed the version that cruise ship passengers gave to SPIEGEL ONLINE, describing their statements as "authentic."

The new details show just how close the ship came to getting hijacked. "We were professional," Vago says, rather openly, "but we were also lucky."

He calls it luck. But passenger Jules Tayler, who was on the ship's afterdeck, calls it "pure chance."

Initially, no one noticed the ship was being attacked. The first warning came when a woman intuitively leaned over the railing in semidarkness and noticed something when she peered down. She suddenly turned to her fellow passengers and said: "Yikes, there's a small boat next to us!"

Tayler and the others rushed to the railing and also saw what he described as five or six men sitting in a roofless pirate boat. One started climbing a rope to the deck beneath them. "He was already halfway up," says Tayler. One passenger screamed: "Pirates!"

Without hesitation, passengers began to grab whatever they could find around them. "We immediately began throwing tables and deck chairs at the rope," said Tayler. One hit a pirate scaling it. He fell off and the boat turned around, Tayler recalls.

The skirmish between the passengers and the pirates lasted for several minutes, he says. Suddenly, the pirates opened fire -- Tayler says he counted three salvos of 25 to 30 rounds each.

Again and again, the pirate boat would approach the ship and disappear under the stern, only to reemerge. Tayler and his fellow passengers continued to throw chairs despite the gunfire. One passenger was shot in the leg and one bullet grazed the head of a crew member. The armed security staff finally turned up six to eight minutes into the skirmish, passengers claim.

Eyewitness Rolf R.* who spoke to SPIEGEL ONLINE about the attack over the weekend, and Jules Tayler say they are certain that the fact that chairs and tables were thrown at the pirates saved the ship. If a single armed pirate had managed to board the ship, he would easily have been able to take hostage the 600 passengers who were listening to a classical music concert in another part of the ship at the time of the incident, Rolf R. says. "The crew was totally overwhelmed and no one knew how to ring the alarm," passenger Tayler, a Brit currently residing in South Africa, says.

MSC chief Vago puts it differently: "The passengers obstructed the attackers, but they were scared off by shots from our security people."

Captain Pinto, who has been celebrated in the press as a hero, reported details of the attack to the passengers on Monday. He seemed to almost be poking fun at them. "You can't hold back pirates with chairs and tables," he told the assembled passengers.

"It was only through the exemplary work of his crew and he himself that the ship was able to fend off the pirates," cruise passenger Rolf R. recalls the captain as saying. Pinto, it seems, relished his role as a hero.

Why the Ship's Passengers Don't Think Captain Pinto Was a Hero

Rolf R. says more than a few passengers are irritated by the captain's posturing, and they in no way view him as a hero. "Many are now asking why the captain first had to be alerted about the shots through the passengers," says R. He is also unwilling to accept claims made by the cruise company that the passengers were never in danger. The shots were "fired at windows located just 50 meters from a group of many hundreds of passengers" attending a classical music concert, he says.

During the meeting with passengers, the captain reportedly refused to answer any critical questions. But passengers want to know why it took so long for the crew to react. And why no guards were stationed on deck at night as the ship sailed close to a region that has seen pirate attacks? And why the ship's radar hadn't triggered an early warning as the pirate boat approached?

"We Weren't in the Risk Zone"

The statements of MSC Cruises chief Vago illustrate how poorly prepared cruise ships have been up to now in dealing with the threat of pirate attacks. "Up until now, we have given more consideration to fish specialities or fine wines than attacks on the high seas," the Italian cruise executive says. The company says it has had security personnel on its ships for the past 25 years, but "because of legal provisions," they are required to keep their weapons in a safe. The captain is only permitted to distribute the guns after an alarm has been given.

In the case of the MSC Melody, the delay between the alarm and active defense was too short for pirates to be able to board the ship. Nevertheless, the photos of shattered windows in several cabins show that frustrated pirates firing around like madmen could easily have caused injuries or deaths. That's why Pinto praised his guests. He said all had immediately obeyed his order to go under deck. Many left behind their mobile phones, purses and even their shoes as they dashed to safety, he said.

MSC Cruises chief Vago has denied allegations that the cruise line jeopardized the safety of its passengers. Just before the cruise started, the company had even changed the ship's route to steer it even further away from the dangerous Somali coastal waters than originally planned. "We weren't in the risk zone," Vago emphasizes. But the scope of that zone has grown with each successive pirate attack. The pirates are operating in an ever greater area -- a trend that has grown further with the MSC Melody incident.

The details also tell a lot about the pirates -- the extent of their audacity and their high level of organization.

Shortly after the ship's passengers had helped fend off the attackers and the captain had alerted international warships, the satellite phone on the bridge rang. "You have been attacked, you need help," a man said in broken English. "Give us your coordinates and we will come to you." Captain Pinto thought the call was strange. The man on the other end of the line didn't want to give the name of his ship, so the captain refused to state the MSC Melody's position. He may have saved the passengers and crew from another pirate attack.

"The Pirates Tried to Attack us Again"

"The ship had been completely blacked out and made invisible to the pirates," MSC chief Vago says. "But we've become certain in the meantime that the pirates were trying to get the position data so they could attack us again." The captain has said he believes he heard street sounds in the background in the telephone conversation. And Vago says he believes that accomplices back on the mainland were trying to provide the pirates at sea with assistance.

The MSC chief is shocked by the pirate bands. He says journalists have told him that a Somalian who claimed to be the head of the pirates bragged about the attack by phone on Saturday. The caller allegedly said that cruise ships were a new target for pirates. He said that, this time, they had failed due to technical reasons. "The pirates appear to feel downright incited by the war ships and the efforts being made against them," Vago says. It is just a matter of time before the next attack happens, he says.

Vago has already taken his first steps in response to the attack. "We are no longer going to travel through the dangerous areas of the Indian Ocean near the Somalian coast," the cruise ship company's chief says. A trip through the region planned for another of the company's ships, the MSC Symphonia , for this autumn has been cancelled. "We won't travel this route and will instead take a course along West Africa," he says.

The cruise line, apparently, doesn't want to have to rely on luck again as it did on Saturday.

Some good news came late Monday night, too, via the Spanish military. The frigate Numancia has detained nine suspected pirates who may have been involved in the attack on the MSC Melody . The men were found near the location where the attack took place. After being detained, the men were turned over to the authorities in the Seychelles because the attack took place in that country's waters.

Still, we may never know if the men were really involved in the incident.

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Pearl Island Lighthouse, Nassau, Bahamas

History of Pirates: Treasure And Tales From The Caribbean

I cruised to the caribbean in search of the history of pirates..

Published on December 9, 2021

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Taking The Pirate's Path

I looked out from my cabin's window and tried to take in the vastness of the ocean. We were on a cruise to the Caribbean , where I would be able to swim in clear waters, try delicious new foods and traverse historic streets. People have different reasons for going on a cruise, and mine was likely different from most: I wanted to follow the pirates. I wanted to swim where they swam, play where they played and drink what they drank.

I planned my trip with the help of the vacation planners on board then designed my own path to pirates. Some of the major pirating ports are in St. Thomas, Jamaica, Barbados and the Bahamas. Haiti, Cuba, St. Croix and Puerto Rico also all have a history of pirate activity nearby.

The Golden Years

My travels took me to many of the most well-known pirate hubs in the Caribbean, all of which preserve the history of the Golden Age of Piracy, which occurred between 1650 and 1720.

The colonization of the Caribbean led to a strong trade industry there starting in the 15th century. Spain had control of the Americas and the country's goal was to mine huge amounts of silver and gold. To protect their ships from attack, the Spanish government adopted a convoy system known as a flota, or treasure fleet, that protected the cargo-carrying ships. The ships were harder to attack because they were surrounded by other ships. However, any straggling boats of the flota were often in danger of being intercepted and looted.

English, French and Dutch colonists and traders ignored the treaties established with Spain and invaded its territories, which led to smuggling and privateering in the Caribbean. Many of the men and women working as pirates during the Golden Age of Piracy originally worked for the navy of their respective countries as privateers. "Privateer" was an official title that allowed sailors to sack the ships of the enemy with the permission of their government.

The shipments of Spain's precious metals were already a temptation to privateers working for their countries in the Caribbean and the Atlantic. Once privateering became less popular and the sailors were left without jobs, many turned to the lucrative career of piracy. They were already highly skilled sailors and ready for battle on the high seas. Not only were the fleets that traveled from the Americas back to Europe looted but the pirates attacked the Caribbean islands as well, sacking ships and ports close to the strongholds I would visit.

Buccaneering In Nassau

Historians say that pirate ships were like floating cities, much like the cruise ship I was traveling on. Many ports weren't designed for vessels of that magnitude, so they would anchor their ships farther out, then hop on smaller boats to row to shore. I felt lucky that my ship slid comfortably into port, with a ramp available for reaching land.

For my first pirate stop, I landed in Nassau. The capital of the Bahamas was a favorite of 17th- and 18th-century pirates because the coastal waters were shallow. Many larger ships ran aground and sank at its shores, but pirate boats with shorter drafts were able to make it to port. I headed straight to Fort Charlotte and the Pirates of Nassau Museum. The fort is a colonial citadel by the harbor named after King George III's wife, with underground tunnels and dark dungeons. The museum brings pirates to life with interactive exhibits as well as examples of their campsites and traditional pirate clothing. The tour guide took us to a replica sailing ship and talked about a popular punishment in the Golden Age known as being "marooned" in which someone would be abandoned on an island without any food, water or possessions.

I heard stories about Edward "Blackbeard" Teach, someone I would hear a lot about during my pirate trips. He was famous for intimidating his enemies with smoke that would billow from his long beard and hair. (He accomplished the theatrical effect by nestling slow-burning fuses in his hair). He also strapped pistols around his body to surprise his enemies in battle. Many pirates made it to Nassau besides Blackbeard, including Calico Jack, Mary Read, Charles Vane, Anne Bonny and others. I was thrilled to have stood on the shore where the pirates might have landed.

In A Pirate's Shoes

For my next stop at Bridgetown, Barbados , I wanted to get closer to buccaneering by sailing on an actual sloop and was able to board the Black Pearl Cruise, an experience which included walking the plank. Pirates were known to purposely leave some of their victims alive, leading to the stories about walking the plank. What better way to inspire fear than to leave terrified survivors?

I walked the plank nervously and then jumped timidly into the water. While others laughed and jumped without a care, I was trying to replicate the frightening experience of being thrown off a ship. (Call me dramatic.) Swimming in the water beside the ship, I had a better view of its wood panels as well as its red sail with a white cross, all of which evoked a different century. I snorkeled around the ship and then went back on board, this time laughing out loud as I swung from a rope into the water.

Jamaica Underwater Diving Ship Wreck

Many privateers became pirates because of their thirst for money, and they gained great amounts of wealth after the Spanish were defeated in the Caribbean.

I looked out to the water's edge and imagined the pirate ships coming in and out. The town is sleepy today, but the remains of a different era show how active this town used to be. There's still a strong seafaring tradition today.

An earthquake in 1692 sank two-thirds of the old city, and I took a tour of the underwater world, witnessing many archeological treasures such as a sunken ship and parts of the town. The ship is now the home of thousands of fish and other sea creatures. The city looks like a ghost town, filled with water instead of people.

Finding Treasure

Perhaps the most iconic possession of a pirate is a treasure chest. The lure of buried treasure is yet another reason why many visit the islands. While it's not likely that you'll come across a chest full of emeralds while hanging out on the beach, some people have been lucky enough to find them. I was sure hoping to find one.

One treasure that has been confirmed as authentic is that of a Spanish galleon ship named San Jose, which sank near the Caribbean coast of Colombia in 1708. Its contents have been authenticated and are worth more than $17 billion dollars. The United Nations has recommended that the treasure not be removed and sold. I didn't find any treasure, at least not in the form of jewels and gold.

The decline of pirates in the Caribbean, which began in the 1720s, was due to the demise of mercenaries and the establishment of European armies. European navies fought against piracy as part of their plan for control of the Caribbean, as did the United States. European countries started to imprison pirates, while others were executed. Pirates began fleeing to other parts of the world.

'Avast, Me Hearties!'

Pirate slang is difficult to understand, but in St. Thomas , the captain of the pirate ship and skeleton crew I was visiting explained this classic phrase for me. It means "Stop and listen, my underlings!" His schooner was a beautiful vessel with bright red sails, and it's one of the "gaff-rigged schooners" that resembles the ones used by buccaneers from the past. This time, I didn't walk the plank, but the captain did. He jumped and then called us swashbucklers to join him on land. We all went ashore for food and drinks, and I remembered that in between all the stealing and fighting, pirates always found time for a drink and a song. I drank some rum, sang to my heart's content and finally felt like a real pirate.

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How Do Cruise Ships Protect Against Pirates

Published: December 21, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Loria Poore

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Introduction

Pirate attacks have long been a concern in maritime regions around the world. With their vast open waters, cruise ships are not immune to these threats. To ensure the safety and security of passengers and crew members, cruise ships implement various measures to protect against pirate attacks.

While the image of pirates may bring to mind swashbuckling characters from a bygone era, modern-day pirate activity poses a real danger. Piracy is prevalent in certain regions with known hotspots, such as the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Somalia, the Malacca Strait in Southeast Asia, and the waters off the coast of Nigeria. Cruise ships navigating these routes must take precautions to mitigate the risk of an attack.

This article will delve into the different measures cruise ships employ to protect against pirate attacks. From ship hardening techniques to onboard surveillance systems, the safety of passengers and crew is a top priority for the cruise industry.

By investing in security personnel, specialized training, and advanced technologies, cruise ships aim to create a safe and secure environment for travelers to enjoy their vacation. Through collaboration with maritime security forces and the implementation of communication protocols, cruise ships are able to respond swiftly and effectively in the event of a potential pirate threat.

Throughout the article, we will explore the various strategies and practices cruise ships employ to protect against pirates. We will also highlight real-life case studies where these measures have successfully prevented pirate attacks, demonstrating the importance of a proactive and comprehensive approach to security at sea.

Pirate Activity in Maritime Regions

Pirate activity remains a significant concern in several maritime regions around the world. These areas are known for their vulnerable shipping lanes and proximity to areas with political instability or economic desperation, which often contribute to the rise of piracy. Understanding the specific regions where pirate attacks are more prevalent is crucial for cruise ships to plan their routes and implement appropriate security measures.

One of the most well-known piracy hotspots is the Gulf of Aden, located off the coast of Somalia in the Horn of Africa. This region has faced a significant pirate threat for years due to weak law enforcement, political instability, and high poverty rates. Attacks in this area have targeted both commercial vessels and luxury cruise ships, making it crucial for cruise lines to take necessary precautions.

The Malacca Strait, a narrow passage between Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, is another region where piracy poses a significant risk to maritime activities. This heavily trafficked waterway connects the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea and is frequented by both commercial and leisure vessels. Pirate attacks in this area mainly involve armed robbery and theft rather than hostage-taking, but they still pose a risk to the safety of passengers and crew.

Additionally, the waters around Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta and the Gulf of Guinea, are known for high levels of piracy. Criminal groups in the region often target vessels to hijack and steal cargo, including oil tankers and supply ships. Cruise ships that navigate near these areas must be vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid potential pirate attacks.

While these are some of the more notable piracy hotspots, it is important to note that pirate activity can occur in other maritime regions as well. The Straits of Malacca and Singapore, the South China Sea, the Red Sea, and the Caribbean Sea have also experienced instances of piracy, albeit to a lesser extent. Cruise lines must assess the risk and keep abreast of any recent incidents in these areas to ensure the safety and security of their passengers and crew.

By understanding the areas where pirate activity is most prevalent, cruise ships can take the necessary precautions to mitigate the risk of an attack. The next section will delve into the various measures employed by cruise ships to protect against pirate threats.

Measures to Mitigate Pirates Attacks

To protect against pirate attacks, cruise ships implement a variety of measures aimed at mitigating the risk and ensuring the safety of passengers and crew members. These measures are designed to deter and impede pirates from boarding the vessel, giving the ship and its security personnel valuable time to respond effectively.

One of the primary measures used is ship hardening. Cruise ships are designed with reinforced structures and features that make it difficult for pirates to gain access to the ship. Reinforced windows, doors, and barriers are common deterrents, as are increased fencing and razor wire surrounding ship perimeters. Some ships are also equipped with citadels, safe rooms where passengers and crew can take refuge in the event of an attack.

Besides physical barriers, cruise ships also employ security personnel and provide specialized training. Trained security professionals are stationed onboard to oversee and respond to any security threats. These personnel are trained in handling potential pirate attacks and work closely with the crew to coordinate a rapid response. Their expertise in security protocols and crisis management is crucial for effectively dealing with any pirate-related incidents.

Onboard surveillance systems play a crucial role in detecting and monitoring potential pirate activity. Advanced camera systems equipped with motion sensors and night vision capabilities are strategically positioned throughout the ship to provide comprehensive coverage. These systems allow for real-time monitoring and recording of any suspicious activity, enabling security personnel to respond quickly and effectively.

Effective communication and coordinated response protocols are vital in mitigating pirate attacks. Cruise ships have established communication procedures in place to quickly alert security personnel and relevant authorities in the event of an incident. This allows for swift and coordinated action, ensuring the safety and welfare of passengers and crew members.

In collaboration with maritime security forces, cruise lines work to strengthen their security measures. They often liaise with local naval authorities and security agencies to gather intelligence and receive updates on pirate activity in the areas they navigate. This cooperation helps cruise lines stay informed and make informed decisions regarding route planning and the implementation of additional security measures.

By implementing these comprehensive measures, cruise ships strive to create a secure environment for their passengers and crew, mitigating the risk of pirate attacks. However, it is essential to highlight that no measure is foolproof, and ongoing vigilance and adaptability are critical to maintaining the safety of passengers and crew members on a cruise ship.

Ship Hardening Techniques

To fortify against pirate attacks, cruise ships employ ship hardening techniques designed to make it extremely challenging for pirates to breach the vessel. These techniques involve both physical modifications to the ship and the implementation of security protocols that act as deterrents and obstacles for pirates.

One of the primary ship hardening techniques is the reinforcement of windows, doors, and barriers. Cruise ships are equipped with sturdy windows made of laminated glass or polycarbonate materials that are resistant to impact and shattering. This makes it difficult for pirates to gain access to cabins or public areas through windows. Additionally, reinforced doors with strong locking mechanisms provide an extra layer of protection against unauthorized entry.

Many cruise ships also incorporate fencing and razor wire as barriers surrounding the perimeter of the ship. These barriers make it difficult for pirates to climb aboard and act as a visible deterrent. The use of razor wire, when strategically placed, adds an additional level of physical hindrance to impede pirates trying to gain access to the ship.

Some cruise ships are equipped with citadels, which are secure rooms designed to provide a safe haven for passengers and crew in the event of an attack. Citadels are reinforced and fortified compartments that are difficult for pirates to penetrate. They are equipped with communication systems, emergency supplies, and essential amenities to sustain occupants until rescue or assistance arrives.

Ship hardening techniques also include the deployment of sonic devices called Long-Range Acoustic Devices (LRADs). These devices emit high-pitched and loud sounds that are designed to disorient and repel potential pirates. LRADs can be operated manually by security personnel or automatically triggered when suspicious activity is detected, effectively deterring pirates from approaching the ship.

Furthermore, some cruise ships have increased the height of their barriers and implemented anti-boarding measures, such as netting or spikes, to prevent pirates from using grappling hooks or ladders to climb aboard. These physical modifications make it more challenging for pirates to gain a foothold on the ship and discourage their attempts.

Ship hardening techniques are continuously evolving, with cruise lines investing in research and development to enhance their security measures. By implementing these physical modifications and deterrents, cruise ships aim to create a substantial barrier against pirate attacks, reducing the risk to passengers, crew members, and the vessel itself.

Security Personnel and Training

Ensuring the safety and security of passengers and crew members aboard cruise ships requires the presence of trained security personnel who are well-prepared to handle potential pirate attacks. Cruise lines employ security professionals who undergo specialized training and are equipped to respond effectively in emergency situations.

Security personnel on cruise ships are responsible for implementing and overseeing security protocols to mitigate the risk of pirate attacks. They work closely with the ship’s captain and crew members to ensure that security measures are properly executed and maintained throughout the voyage.

Training for security personnel on cruise ships involves a comprehensive understanding of the maritime security environment and the specific procedures used to deter and respond to pirate threats. They are trained in risk assessment, surveillance techniques, crisis management, and conflict resolution. This training equips security personnel with the necessary skills to identify potential threats and respond swiftly and effectively to any security incidents.

Additionally, security personnel undergo regular drills and exercises to sharpen their abilities in dealing with potential pirate attacks. These exercises simulate various scenarios, allowing security teams to practice their response protocols and coordination with other onboard departments, such as the bridge team and the crew responsible for emergency procedures.

Communication is a crucial aspect of effective security response. Security personnel receive training in communication protocols, ensuring efficient and timely communication with other crew members, the ship’s command center, and external authorities. This enables quick dissemination of information and allows for a coordinated response during times of heightened security or in the event of a potential pirate threat.

Moreover, security personnel are trained to interact with passengers in a professional and reassuring manner, ensuring that they feel secure throughout their journey. This includes providing information and guidance on security procedures, highlighting the efforts taken by the cruise line to maintain a safe environment, and addressing any concerns or questions raised by passengers.

Continuous evaluation and improvement of security procedures and training programs are essential to keep up with evolving pirate tactics. Cruise lines collaborate with industry experts, consultants, and relevant authorities to stay updated on the latest security measures and best practices. This commitment to ongoing training and improvement allows cruise ships to adapt to new challenges and ensure the highest level of security for passengers and crew members.

By investing in well-trained security personnel and providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge, cruise lines demonstrate their dedication to the safety and security of their guests. The next section will explore the onboard surveillance systems employed by cruise ships to enhance security measures.

Onboard Surveillance Systems

Onboard surveillance systems play a crucial role in enhancing the security measures of cruise ships. These advanced systems are designed to detect and monitor potential pirate activity, providing a constant watchful eye to ensure the safety of passengers, crew members, and the vessel itself.

Modern cruise ships are equipped with a network of surveillance cameras strategically positioned throughout the ship. These cameras are equipped with high-resolution capabilities, allowing for clear and detailed monitoring of various areas, including public spaces, hallways, entrances, and decks. The placement of cameras takes into consideration blind spots and critical areas where pirate access may be more likely.

These surveillance cameras are often equipped with advanced features such as motion sensors, facial recognition, and night vision capabilities. The motion sensors trigger alerts when suspicious activity is detected, enabling security personnel to respond promptly. Facial recognition technology helps identify individuals of interest who may pose a potential threat, allowing for early detection and prevention of security breaches.

Live feeds from the surveillance cameras are continually monitored by security personnel who are trained to analyze and identify potential security risks. They are responsible for keeping a vigilant eye on the screens, looking for any indications of suspicious behavior or unauthorized access. Through real-time monitoring, security personnel can quickly assess the situation and take appropriate action.

In addition to real-time monitoring, surveillance systems also record all camera feeds, creating a valuable resource for later review and investigation. Video footage can be crucial in assessing events leading up to an incident, providing evidence for investigations, and supporting any legal proceedings if necessary.

The control room, manned by security personnel, serves as the nerve center for monitoring the surveillance cameras and coordinating the response in case of a security threat. This control room is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, allowing security personnel to efficiently manage and access the surveillance system.

To ensure the effectiveness of onboard surveillance systems, regular maintenance, testing, and upgrades are essential. Cruise lines invest in routine equipment checks, software updates, and training for security personnel to stay up to date with the latest advancements in surveillance technology.

By employing robust onboard surveillance systems, cruise ships enhance their ability to detect and deter potential pirate threats. The integration of advanced camera technology, motion sensors, and facial recognition capabilities, along with continuous monitoring by trained security personnel, provides a comprehensive layer of security that helps keep passengers and crew members safe during their voyage.

Communication and Coordinated Response

Effective communication and a coordinated response are essential components in mitigating pirate attacks on cruise ships. Cruise lines have established protocols and systems in place to facilitate seamless communication among crew members, security personnel, and relevant authorities to ensure a swift and efficient response in the face of a potential security threat.

One of the key aspects of communication is the implementation of clear and secure channels throughout the ship. Cruise ships are equipped with a reliable communication network that includes intercom systems, radios, cell phones, and other mobile communication devices. This allows for immediate communication between different departments and individuals, enabling them to relay information quickly in emergency situations.

In the event of a potential pirate threat, security personnel are trained to initiate the security protocols and communication procedures. They alert the bridge team, which is responsible for navigating and controlling the ship, to ensure that the necessary maneuvers are implemented to deter the pirates and ensure the safety of everyone on board.

Furthermore, cruise ships maintain constant communication with relevant authorities, such as naval forces and coast guards in the area. This collaboration enables real-time exchange of information and intelligence regarding potential pirate activities. By staying in close contact with external security forces, cruise ships can receive updates on the current security situation in the region and adjust their routes and onboard security measures accordingly.

Coordinated response is another critical aspect of dealing with a potential pirate attack. Cruise ships conduct regular drills and exercises to practice their response protocols and coordination between different departments, including security, bridge team, crew members, and medical staff. These exercises simulate various scenarios to ensure effective collaboration and the seamless execution of response plans.

During a potential pirate attack, the well-being and safety of passengers and crew members are paramount. Cruise lines have protocols in place to gather and secure passengers in designated assembly areas or safe rooms, such as citadels. These areas are reinforced and equipped with necessary supplies, communication devices, and emergency equipment to sustain occupants until assistance arrives.

Effective coordination with external security forces is of utmost importance during a pirate attack. Cruise ships have established procedures to relay information to naval authorities or coast guards, seeking assistance and providing critical details about the situation. This collaboration allows for a coordinated approach to defuse the threat and ensure the safety of everyone on board.

Continuous evaluation and improvement of communication and response procedures are vital to maintaining security levels. Cruise lines conduct post-incident reviews and feedback sessions to identify any areas that can be strengthened and adjust protocols accordingly. This commitment to improvement ensures that the response to pirate threats is refined and effective.

By prioritizing clear communication and a coordinated response, cruise ships can enhance their ability to address potential pirate threats swiftly and efficiently. This proactive approach contributes to a safer environment for passengers and crew members, instilling confidence in the security measures implemented by the cruise industry.

Collaboration with Maritime Security Forces

Collaboration with maritime security forces is a crucial aspect of cruise ship security in the face of potential pirate threats. Cruise lines work closely with local naval authorities, coast guards, and other relevant security agencies to gather intelligence, receive updates on security situations, and ensure a coordinated response to piracy incidents.

One of the primary goals of collaboration with maritime security forces is to obtain up-to-date information on pirate activities in the areas that cruise ships navigate. By sharing information, cruise lines can assess the risk and make informed decisions regarding route planning and security measures. Gathering intelligence on recent pirate attacks or suspicious activity aids in the preparation and implementation of effective preventive measures.

Cruise lines maintain regular communication with maritime security forces to receive updates on the security situation in specific regions. This includes information on the level of pirate activity, recent incidents, and any operational changes in response to emerging threats. By staying informed, cruise ships can adjust their security protocols accordingly and maintain a heightened state of vigilance.

In some cases, cruise ships operating in high-risk areas may even have security personnel from local naval authorities or coast guards on board. This onboard security presence enhances the security capabilities of the ship and provides direct access to specialized personnel who are familiar with the local security landscape.

Collaboration with maritime security forces also extends to ensuring a coordinated response in the event of a potential pirate attack. Cruise ships have established communication protocols and procedures to quickly alert and request assistance from relevant authorities. This ensures a rapid response that maximizes the chances of thwarting an attack and ensuring the safety of passengers and crew members.

Additionally, cruise lines may share their security plans and protocols with maritime security forces for review and feedback. This collaborative approach allows for expert input and recommendations from the authorities who have a deep understanding of the region’s security challenges. Incorporating their insights strengthens the overall security measures in place and ensures alignment with local security expectations and practices.

Collaboration with maritime security forces is an ongoing process that requires open communication channels and regular updates. Cruise lines often participate in industry forums and meetings where they can discuss and exchange information with relevant authorities. This engagement fosters a strong working relationship and mutual trust, allowing for smoother collaboration during potential security incidents.

By working hand-in-hand with maritime security forces, cruise lines can leverage the expertise and resources of these agencies to enhance their security measures. This collaboration reinforces the commitment to maintaining a secure environment for passengers and crew members, demonstrating the collective effort in tackling the threat of piracy in maritime regions.

Case Studies of Successful Incidents Avoidance

There have been several notable case studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of the security measures implemented by cruise ships in avoiding pirate incidents. These successful incident avoidance stories highlight the importance of proactive security strategies and the commitment of cruise lines to ensuring the safety of their passengers and crew members.

One such case study took place in the Gulf of Aden, a piracy hotspot off the coast of Somalia. A cruise ship sailing in this region detected several suspicious boats approaching. The ship immediately implemented its security protocols, including activating onboard surveillance systems and notifying the bridge team and security personnel. The crew members also mustered passengers in safe areas of the ship as a precaution.

Through effective communication and coordinated efforts, the cruise ship’s security team relayed the situation to nearby naval forces, who swiftly dispatched a patrol boat to intercept the suspicious boats. The presence of the naval vessel, combined with the visible security measures implemented by the cruise ship, deterred the pirates, and they abandoned their attempted attack.

In another case, a cruise ship navigating through the Malacca Strait encountered a small skiff with armed individuals onboard, behaving suspiciously. The ship’s security personnel immediately alerted the bridge team and implemented evasive maneuvers. The onboard surveillance systems captured the incident and provided real-time footage to the security team for analysis.

Utilizing the ship’s communication systems, the security team established contact with naval authorities in the region. The naval vessel responded promptly and arrived on the scene. Their presence, combined with the effective communication and timely response of the cruise ship’s security team, deterred the pirates, and they were unable to board the vessel.

These case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of proactive security measures, including timely communication, surveillance systems, and collaboration with maritime security forces. By promptly detecting and assessing potential threats, and implementing response protocols efficiently, cruise ships can deter pirates and prevent potential attacks from escalating.

It is important to note that these successful incident avoidance stories are a testament to the comprehensive security protocols and ongoing training implemented by the cruise industry. The commitment to proactive security measures and the collaboration with relevant authorities have contributed significantly to the safety of passengers and crew members.

These cases also highlight the importance of maintaining a high level of awareness and preparedness when navigating through regions prone to piracy. The continuous evaluation and improvement of security measures, as well as the sharing of best practices within the industry, contribute to the collective effort in mitigating the risk of pirate attacks.

By studying and learning from these successful incident avoidance case studies, cruise lines can further refine their security strategies and ensure that they stay ahead of evolving piracy tactics. The ongoing commitment to the safety of their passengers and crew members remains a top priority for the cruise industry.

Protecting against pirate attacks is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety and security of passengers and crew members aboard cruise ships. By implementing comprehensive measures, cruise lines are committed to mitigating the risk of piracy and maintaining a secure environment for travelers.

Pirate activity remains a concern in maritime regions worldwide, and cruise ships navigate through some of the known hotspots. Understanding these regions and the specific threats they pose allows cruise lines to plan routes and implement appropriate security measures. The Gulf of Aden, the Malacca Strait, and the waters around Nigeria are among the notable areas where pirate activity is prevalent.

Measures to mitigate pirate attacks include ship hardening techniques, such as reinforced windows, doors, and barriers, as well as the deployment of sonic devices and the use of citadels as safe rooms. Security personnel play a crucial role, receiving specialized training and working in coordination with other departments to ensure a swift and efficient response to potential threats.

Onboard surveillance systems, equipped with advanced features like motion sensors and night vision capabilities, enhance the ability to detect and monitor potential pirate activity. Effective communication channels and coordinated responses are vital during incidents, with cruise lines collaborating closely with maritime security forces to gather intelligence and respond effectively.

Case studies of successful incident avoidance highlight the effectiveness of these security measures and the importance of proactive strategies. Through timely communication, surveillance systems, and collaboration with relevant authorities, cruise ships have deterred pirates and prevented potential attacks from escalating.

In conclusion, the cruise industry’s commitment to security and the implementation of robust measures demonstrate their dedication to passenger and crew safety. By continuously evaluating and refining security protocols, staying informed about piracy hotspots, and collaborating with maritime security forces, cruise lines strive to create a secure environment for travelers to enjoy their voyages with peace of mind.

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Do cruise ships get attacked by pirates?

Home » Do cruise ships get attacked by pirates?

Last updated on January 30th, 2024 at 05:35 pm

In the event of an attack, security staff have been trained to deal with these types of threats. Cruise lines have kept quiet about the specific tools that they employ to stop a pirate attack.

When we talk about pirates, you might be thinking “Pirates of the Caribbean” – but modern-day pirates don’t look anything like the fictitious characters in movies.

Depending on the location of the cruise ship, it’s possible that it could get attacked, but the chances of a pirate attack on a cruise ship are very slim.

Over the past few years, there have been some pirate attacks on cruise ships in areas off the coast of northeastern Africa, Malaysia, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Sudan.

If your ship happens to be sailing through an area where pirates could be present, the captain of the ship may require all curtains to be closed, outdoor lights turned off and may even require passengers to stay inside during this time.

Cruises departing from North America, visiting popular destinations in the Caribbean have little to worry about.

‘Has this ever happened to anyone??’: Cruise traveler says ‘real life’ pirates have surrounded her ship

'this is absolutely terrifying.'.

Vladimir Supica

Posted on Mar 8, 2024 Updated on Mar 8, 2024, 12:50 pm CST

A TikTok user claiming their cruise ship has been surrounded by “real life” pirates has gone viral, but upon closer inspection, viewers are questioning the claims in the clip.

Uploaded by user @trogelstad on March 6, the video depicts scenes from a cruise ship accompanied by dramatic on-screen captions detailing a supposed encounter with pirates. However, the footage itself tells a different story.

The video starts with the TikToker narrating a harrowing tale through on-screen captions, stating, “I’m on a cruise that has been surrounded by real life pirates and it is the most terrifying thing I have ever experienced.” They then claim the captain has instructed all passengers to gather in the main dining hall while they devise a plan of action, even mentioning a mysterious “Code Bravo.”

Despite the alarming captions, the actual footage paints a contrasting picture. The video shows passengers in the dining hall appearing relaxed and engaged in casual conversation, with one man even engrossed in his laptop. The atmosphere seems far from the panic-stricken scenario described in the captions.

The TikToker continues to make sensational claims: “I’m so scared right now,” they write. “These tower things came out of the water and are surrounding the ship. There are other ships around us too. The pirates are coming straight for us. You can see the ships in the distance heading towards us.”

However, the video footage once again contradicts these claims. The “tower things” resemble standard oil rigs, and the supposed “pirate ships” on the horizon look more like ordinary cruise ships, showing no signs of pursuit.

The video concludes with the caption, “What should I do? We are still all waiting in the dining hall. This is absolutely terrifying.”

@trogelstad I am currently on a cruise that is surrounded by real life pirates im so scared right now. Has this ever happened to anyone?? #cruiseshipcrew #cruiseshiplife #cruisedisaster #cruisedisasters #cruiser #cruiselife #cruisetok #cruiseship #pirates #realpirates #piratesonacruise #reallifepirates ♬ Hoist the Colours – Bass Singers Version – Bobby Bass

This video appears to be part of a larger trend of clickbait, sensationalist content on TikTok designed to manipulate the algorithm and attract views. A look at @trogelstad’s TikTok page reveals dozens of similar videos featuring ordinary footage overlaid with extraordinary claims, ranging from paranormal activity to incoming tsunamis, all set to eerie background music.

However, viewers aren’t buying it. In the comments section of the video, many have been quick to point out the contrast between the claims made in the captions and the actual video footage.

“I see no pirates and no panicking,” one commenter wrote.

“Are the pirates and panicking in the room with us ?” a second said.

One user humorously suggested, “maybe the pirates surrounding the ship are the friends we made along the way.”

Furthermore, pirate attacks on cruise ships are extremely rare. According to a 2020 CruiseCritic article, “In more than a decade, there have been only six reported incidents of pirates attempting to attack cruise ships, and the most recent was more than four years ago already.”

In the unlikely event of a pirate attack, cruise ships have stringent security pr otocols and are well-equipped to repel any attack, whether it’s with water cannons, Long-Range Acoustic Devices (LRADs), or even military personnel on board.

The Daily Dot has reached out to @trogelstad via email for comment.

Vladimir Supica is a Serbia-based freelance writer for the Daily Dot. He enjoys traveling through Europe, reading non-fiction books, and playing with his dog Max.

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Cruise ship escapes attack by pirates 100 miles off Somalia

The crew of a 9,775-gross-ton, 440-foot-long passenger cruise ship successfully evaded a pirate attack off the coast of Somalia early on the morning of Nov. 5. The cruise ship lies at anchor near a warship in the Seychelles two days after the attack off Somalia. Image Credit: Associated Press The incident highlighted the peril this region poses to mariners. The Somali coast is now the riskiest place in the world for pirate attacks, according to Capt. Pottengal Mukundan, director of the International Maritime Bureau, a division of the International Chamber of Commerce. Between March 15 and Nov. 16, 2005, 32 incidents of piracy off Somalia have been reported. The International Maritime Bureau is advising vessels that do not have to call on Somali ports to remain at least 200 nm offshore. Seabourn Spirit, a Bahamian-flagged vessel owned by Miami-based Seabourn Cruise Line, was en route from Alexandria, Egypt, to Mombasa, Kenya, when the attack occurred, according to Bruce Good, a Seabourn spokesman. The vessel was about 100 nm off the coast. Apparently a distress call was issued just before the attack, which Seabourn Spirit’s master, Capt. Sven Erik Pedersen, did not respond to, because issuing false distress calls is a tactic pirates use frequently, according to Good. At about 0530, the captain spotted two 25-foot-long open boats with outboard motors speeding toward the cruise ship. There were between nine and 12 pirates in the two boats, armed with automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launchers. The pirates opened fire on the vessel and launched three RPGs at the ship, according to Good. As the attack started, Pedersen told passengers over the ship’s public address system to keep low, stay away from windows and go to the restaurant. “He didn’t want to sound the general emergency alarm, because he was concerned that people would go out on deck, and there were bullets flying,” Good said. Pedersen turned the vessel out to sea, sped up and took evasive action, with the two pirate boats in pursuit, according to Good. Seabourn Spirit has a cruising speed of 16 knots. Good would not reveal the vessel’s top speed. News accounts reported that the captain attempted to run down the pirate boats, but Good cast doubt on those accounts. “I think probably what he was doing was creating a bow wave to try to swamp them or drive them away, to make it real ugly for guys in open boats,” Good said. Image Credit: Associated Press The remnants of a rocket propelled grenade protrude from a bulkhead. Passengers have stated that Seabourn Spirit used a nonlethal weapon called a long-range acoustic device, or LRAD, to repel the pirates. The device creates a powerful tone between 2,100 and 3,100 hertz, at the most sensitive range of human hearing. Citing security concerns, Good would not confirm or deny the presence of an LRAD on Seabourn Spirit. The LRAD was developed by American Technology Corp. of San Diego. Essentially a highly directional, highly powerful loudspeaker, the LRAD 1000 reportedly can boost sound in a tight beam toward another boat more than 300 yards away. After the attack, the ship headed to Port Victoria, in the Seychelles, where experts from a guided missile destroyer, USS Gonzalez, and the Seychelles Coast Guard removed part of a grenade shell that had exploded, but not disintegrated, from a passenger cabin. The grenade initially was thought to have been unexploded. The crew did an excellent job responding to the attack, Good said. The company does train its crews specifically to respond to pirate attacks, but he would not give any details about Seabourn’s security plans or what else the crew did in this incident. “We are extremely grateful to them; they did a superb job,” said Good of the crew, whose members come from Europe, India, Korea and the Philippines. “It is a measure of their character and courage that these people put themselves between our guests and danger,” he said. There were 161 crewmembers onboard and 151 passengers, including 48 Americans and 21 Canadians. No passengers were injured, and one crewmember, a security officer, sustained minor shrapnel wounds. It was an especially dangerous week for piracy off the Somali coast, with five incidents occurring between Nov. 5 and Nov. 8. In fact, it is believed that a vessel equipped with a derrick is acting as a mother ship for the pirates, according to Andrew Nunnington, spokesman for the London-based National Union of Marine, Aviation and Shipping Transport Officers (NUMAST). On the same day as the Seabourn Spirit attack, a bulk carrier tried to come close to examine a drifting vessel with a derrick on deck. The drifting vessel suddenly sped up and chased the bulk carrier, which escaped, according to the IMB’s Weekly Pirate Report. The bulk carrier’s master suspects this was the ship from which the 25-foot boats are launched. On the following day, Nov. 6, pirates armed with automatic weapons and RPGs fired on a ro-ro vessel off the east coast of Somalia. The master took evasive action and escaped, but bridge windows were damaged by gunfire. On Nov. 7, pirates hijacked a Thailand-flagged general cargo ship off Somalia. And on Nov. 8, a cargo vessel escaped a pirate attack 390 nm off Somalia, according to Mukundan. More than 150 sailors were taken hostage by Somali pirates this year, he said. As of mid-November, pirates were holding six vessels and 100 mariners hostage, according to Mukundan. No deaths or serious injuries have been reported. NUMAST officials have said the Somali coast should be declared a war zone and needs to be protected by a naval fleet. U.S. and NATO warships patrol the region but are not permitted in Somali territorial waters. On Nov. 23, the 24th Assembly of the International Maritime Organization adopted resolution that calls for action on Somali piracy by the Secretary General of the United Nations, and if necessary, by the UN Security Council.

By Professional Mariner Staff

Onboard Experience

How do cruise ships protect against pirates.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Non-lethal defense mechanisms such as water cannons and barbed wire fencing are utilized to deter pirates from attacking cruise ships.
Collaboration with local authorities, military forces, and private security firms is crucial in enhancing the security of cruise ships against pirate threats.
Diplomatic negotiations with pirate-infested regions and working closely with local authorities and military forces help to mitigate the risk of pirate attacks.
Advanced technologies like facial recognition systems, drone surveillance, biometric access control, and virtual security officers are being implemented to strengthen cruise ship security and provide peace of mind for passengers.

The Threat of Piracy on the Open Seas

State-of-the-art security measures on cruise ships.

Crew Training and Emergency Preparedness

Collaborative efforts with international maritime organizations, best practices for safe passage through pirate-infested waters, non-lethal defense mechanisms, long-range acoustic devices (lrad), water cannons and barbed wire fencing, working with local authorities and military forces, crisis management and contingency plans, passenger safety and security awareness, future innovations in cruise ship security, frequently asked questions, what types of weapons are cruise ship security personnel equipped with to defend against pirate attacks, are there surveillance systems in place on cruise ships to monitor for potential pirate activity, how do cruise ships communicate with local authorities and military forces in the event of a pirate attack, what measures are taken to ensure passenger safety during a pirate attack, are there any specific protocols in place for handling a crisis situation involving pirates while onboard a cruise ship.

With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

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Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform. With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

The Gift: A Musical Journey of Fantasy and Illusion

We will rock you: the legendary music of queen, spectras cabaret: a multi-dimensional experience, two70 degree theater: where technology meets live performance, anthem of the seas debut: immersive entertainment on the high seas, diverse lineup: rock, illusion, and cabaret at its finest, what other types of entertainment are offered on anthem of the seas besides rock, illusion, and cabaret, how long is the performance of the gift: a musical journey of fantasy and illusion, can passengers interact with the performers during spectras cabaret in the two70 degree theater, what technology is used in the two70 degree theater to create a unique entertainment experience, will anthem of the seas be debuting any new shows or performances in the near future, alcatraz island: historic prison tours return.

An image capturing the eerie ambiance of the desolate Alcatraz Island at dusk - the dilapidated cell blocks looming against a blood-red sky, a fading silhouette of a guard tower, and a faint glimpse of tourists exploring the historic prison

Alcatraz Island, located in San Francisco Bay, has a rich history as a federal prison and is notorious for housing dangerous criminals.
The ferry service to Alcatraz Island will resume on March 15, 2021, allowing visitors to explore the historic structure and learn about its history.
The Alcatraz Cellhouse, with its solid steel cell doors, narrow hallways, and cramped cells, offers a glimpse into the harsh conditions experienced by inmates.
Strict health and safety measures have been implemented at Alcatraz, including the requirement of masks onboard the ferry and the availability of hand sanitizer stations throughout the experience.

History of Alcatraz Island

Notorious Inmates of Alcatraz

Alcatraz island ferry service resumes.

Exploring the Alcatraz Cellhouse

Outdoor interpretive signs at alcatraz.

Health and Safety Measures at Alcatraz

Alcatraz cruises: official concessioner, visitor experience on alcatraz island, discovering the layered history of alcatraz, alcatraz island: an iconic landmark, how long does the ferry ride from pier 33 alcatraz landing to alcatraz island take, are there any age restrictions for the alcatraz prison tours, can visitors bring their own food and drinks to alcatraz island, are there any guided tours available at alcatraz island, is there a gift shop on alcatraz island where visitors can purchase souvenirs, all about gay cruises: a guide to the ultimate lgbtq+ vacation.

An image showcasing a vibrant, sun-kissed cruise ship adorned with rainbow flags, sailing through crystal-clear turquoise waters

Gay cruises can be either full-ship charters or group trips on regular cruises, with the former offering specialized activities and entertainment.
Gay cruises welcome all passengers regardless of their identity, primarily catering to gay men but also providing options for lesbian women and other groups within the LGBTQ+ community.
Gay cruises are available year-round and sail to various destinations worldwide, with full-ship charters offering unique experiences and group cruises ranging from short Caribbean trips to exotic holiday cruises.
Solo travelers are common on gay cruises, and companies offer special programs to help them meet new friends and provide a welcoming environment for all.

Types of Gay Cruises

Inclusivity and Identity

Availability and destinations.

Unique Experience of Full-Ship Charters

Full ship charter benefits:
Customized entertainment, itinerary, and shore excursions
Hand-selected performers and tailor-made lineups
Focus on creating a unique vacation for gay and lesbian guests
Entire cruise ship dedicated to the specialty cruise

Solo Traveling on Gay Cruises

Activities and entertainment on gay cruises, dining and cuisine on gay cruises, accommodation and cabin options on gay cruises, onboard facilities and amenities on gay cruises, planning and booking your gay cruise vacation, what are the benefits of choosing a full-ship charter over a group trip on a regular cruise, are there any age restrictions or requirements for passengers on gay cruises, can i bring my straight friends or family members on a gay cruise, are there any specific dress codes or attire guidelines for gay cruises, how do i find out about the specific activities and entertainment options on a gay cruise before booking, affiliate disclaimer.

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

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Modern Day Pirates Attack Cruise Ship

In 2005, the cruise ship Seaborne Spirit was attacked by pirates off the coast of Somalia.

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Oct 12, 2022

Are Cruise Ships Safe From Pirate Attacks?

Going on a cruise is a popular holiday choice for people worldwide. However, cruise ships, in theory, are valuable and appealing targets for pirates. Onboard, there are many valuables to rob and people to kidnap. This thought begs the question, are cruise ships safe from pirate attacks?

Although piracy can theoretically occur anywhere, the chances are most likely to happen in high-risk areas. To get to the most scenic and exotic parts of the world, some cruise ships sail through these areas, vastly increasing the risk of piracy.

Despite this risk, cruise ships are the safest vacation spots in the world. According to FBI statistics, serious crime is far lower at sea than on land. Moreover, a successful pirate attack on a cruise ship has never happened. From 2011-2021 there were only six attempted pirate attacks, with a few famous attempted cases the decade prior, such as the attack on the Seabourn Spirit in 2005.

Part of this success and deterrence is how comprehensive onboard security is on cruise ships. There are no standard recommendations for cruise ships, and they are expected to follow the BMP5 like merchant shipping. However, the industry does have similar practices. For example, cruise ships have strict procedures for sailing in high-risk areas. Guests must practice pirate drills.

"According to FBI statistics, serious crime is far lower at sea than on land. Moreover, a successful pirate attack on a cruise ship has never happened".

No one is allowed on the outer decks and lights are turned off. Extra military support can also be provided. Security personnel onboard are well-trained and usually have ex-military backgrounds. However, cruise companies like to keep quiet about their capabilities for apparent reasons.

Despite this obstacle, our CEO Steve Regis has served as part of a security detail for cruise ship security. We asked him some questions regarding his time in ship security to highlight the effectiveness of cruise ship security.

Q1. What was your role in cruise ship security?

The role was to prevent pirates from boarding and hijacking the ships. We achieved this by deploying a small detachment of guards onboard the cruise ship armed with Styer Scout single-shot bolt action rifles.

These guys would act as a liaison to the ship's Captain, provide advice and guidance in the event of an attack and also use their weapons as a means of deterrence and defence. Secondly, a team was shadowing the cruise liner in a fast offshore support vessel, formally commissioned as an Omani police boat. There was a team of four guards plus a crew, heavily armed with semi-automatics. The role of this vessel was to intercept any incoming threats

Q2. Did you ever get into any situations involving pirates?

Yes, whilst transiting just before point Alpha of the IRTC, we picked up a suspicious approach heading towards the cruise ship shortly before sunset. We communicated with the detachment on the bridge of the client's vessel who made alterations to the course and altered speed. Tracking the suspect vessel via radar, we could see that it altered its heading, closing the CPA (closest point of approach) to below less than 0.5km.

The bridge team fired flares to act as a warning, yet the suspect vessel continued its course, correcting to continue the intercept. At this point, our patrol vessel increased speed and moved from its position aft of the client vessel to us between the suspect craft of the cruise liner.

"Security personnel onboard are well-trained and usually have ex-military backgrounds".

As the vessel was formerly a police vessel, it was fitted with blue flashing lights. We turned these on, yet the skiff continued. Not until we fired warning shots across the bow of the attackers did they alter course and break off the attack. The light was low, but by the time the attack was aborted, we were within 400m. It was clear that there were weapons and ladders aboard the skiff. This was back in 2011, at the height of Somali piracy.

Q3. Do you think cruise ships are safer than merchant vessels?

Yes. Firstly, cruise ships typically have a high freeboard and can reach speeds above 20 knots, so technically, they are more difficult to board. Secondly, pirates are usually well-informed.

They would know that targeting a vessel with international tourists would trigger a significant international response, probably by special forces. This is typically not the response seen if a tanker is captured.

To conclude, cruise ships are very safe, and no one should fear pirate attacks. Statistics show that cruise ships are safer than land and that the security and maritime professionals on board are well-trained to handle any situation in the rare event that it would happen. However, if you get seasick quickly, you should probably avoid them.

Cruise Ship Facts That Are Rarely Talked About

Posted: December 14, 2023 | Last updated: December 14, 2023

For some people, cruises are the ultimate getaway when planning their travels. They are a floating ecosystem and it's almost like being in a whole new world where everything you might need is located all in one place. But they also come with their own set of rules and realities. Whether you're a luxury cruise line expert or a novice thinking about taking your first trip, you'll want to know these cruise secrets before hopping on board. From secret amenities to things crew members know but never tell the guests, these fun facts will shed new light on the whole experience.

A Morgue Lurks Within Every Cruise Ship

Cruises are supposed to be about letting loose and having fun but there is often a dark side to cruises that passengers don't really see. Because a large portion of cruise goers usually tend to be older it's actually not uncommon for people to pass away while on ship.

One former crew estimated that around three people pass away every month on a cruise. Due to this, all cruise ships are required to have a morgue on board and usually has room for around three to six bodies.

<p>The requirement that crew members be as hospitable and nice as possible to passengers, they don't usually get a chance to say everything they'd like to say. For this reason, cruise ships keep a log where they write down everything that happens while on a trip. These logs keep everything from something as big as a fire or injury to something as minimal as a comment a guest made.</p><p>It sounds weird but all of that information helps an incoming crew best prepare and spot potential hazards and how to manage them best. This log can also be used as a venting outlet for crew.</p>

It Might Sound Creepy but Crew Members Keep Record of Everything That Guests Do

The requirement that crew members be as hospitable and nice as possible to passengers, they don't usually get a chance to say everything they'd like to say. For this reason, cruise ships keep a log where they write down everything that happens while on a trip. These logs keep everything from something as big as a fire or injury to something as minimal as a comment a guest made.

It sounds weird but all of that information helps an incoming crew best prepare and spot potential hazards and how to manage them best. This log can also be used as a venting outlet for crew.

<p>If you have ever seen pictures from a cruise you will have noted that the pools are often the most crowded areas on the ship. Even though the ship is floating on water, people just gravitate toward the pools anyway.ÃÂ It turns out that most cruise ships have "secret" pools reserved for their staff only. Because these pools are dedicated to staff they are often much less crowded.</p><p>Guests can however be invited and of course, a guest would have to make quite the impression on the crew in order to be invited to the secret pool. The invite is actually harder to secure than you would think, considering some of the rules on board.</p>

The Eerie Hidden Pools of Cruise Ships

If you have ever seen pictures from a cruise you will have noted that the pools are often the most crowded areas on the ship. Even though the ship is floating on water, people just gravitate toward the pools anyway. It turns out that most cruise ships have "secret" pools reserved for their staff only. Because these pools are dedicated to staff they are often much less crowded.

Guests can however be invited and of course, a guest would have to make quite the impression on the crew in order to be invited to the secret pool. The invite is actually harder to secure than you would think, considering some of the rules on board.

<p>Passenger safety on board is paramount and maintaining that safety is not an easy task. Crew are sometimes forced to speak in code, so they don't incite panic while still being able to act quickly during an emergency. Some of these codes are used for dealing with medical emergencies, reacting to a fire, or responding if someone falls overboard. If you ever wondered about what code word is usually used for someone falling overboard, then it's "oscar."</p><p>This really makes a lot of sense since the last thing you really want is to terrify your passengers or cause a panic making it harder to do your job.</p>

The Crew Speaks in Code to Keep Guests in the Dark

Passenger safety on board is paramount and maintaining that safety is not an easy task. Crew are sometimes forced to speak in code, so they don't incite panic while still being able to act quickly during an emergency. Some of these codes are used for dealing with medical emergencies, reacting to a fire, or responding if someone falls overboard. If you ever wondered about what code word is usually used for someone falling overboard, then it's "oscar."

This really makes a lot of sense since the last thing you really want is to terrify your passengers or cause a panic making it harder to do your job.

<p>Many cruise ships have casinos on board, and since most of the time you are traveling through international waters, it's completely legal. This also means that the cruise ship isn't necessarily subject to a single area's laws concerning gambling. The rules onboard will occasionally change depending on whatever country is closest.</p><p>Cruise ships might switch up the number of decks they use for blackjack, etc. and your odds of winning can change dramatically depending on where you are. Just be aware that the rules governing their games aren't set in stone, and can change.</p>

Gambling Rules on Board Aren't as Legal as You Think

Many cruise ships have casinos on board, and since most of the time you are traveling through international waters, it's completely legal. This also means that the cruise ship isn't necessarily subject to a single area's laws concerning gambling. The rules onboard will occasionally change depending on whatever country is closest.

Cruise ships might switch up the number of decks they use for blackjack, etc. and your odds of winning can change dramatically depending on where you are. Just be aware that the rules governing their games aren't set in stone, and can change.

<p>The buck stops with the Captain at all times while on board which is a fantastic system when it works, and it typically does. It makes sense that one person with experience should calling the shots during an emergency. The last thing you would want is two or more people wasting time arguing over a decision in a crisis. That being said, even captains make mistakes, and sometimes those mistakes can be disastrous for a ship or its passengers.</p><p>It's not often that it happens which is why when it does it usually makes headlines. A few cruise ships have even been sunk due to a captain's decisions.</p>

Even Cruise Ships Are Vulnerable to Mysterious Accidents

The buck stops with the Captain at all times while on board which is a fantastic system when it works, and it typically does. It makes sense that one person with experience should calling the shots during an emergency. The last thing you would want is two or more people wasting time arguing over a decision in a crisis. That being said, even captains make mistakes, and sometimes those mistakes can be disastrous for a ship or its passengers.

It's not often that it happens which is why when it does it usually makes headlines. A few cruise ships have even been sunk due to a captain's decisions.

<p>Strange things happen while at sea, and one of those things is when people go missing. It sounds weird but people really do go missing on ships. Approximately 165 people reportedly went missing while on a cruise from 1995 to 2011.</p><p>There is speculation that the number is possibly higher. This is separate from passengers that fall overboard. We're talking about people who have just disappeared without a trace and were never seen again.</p>

Sometimes Passengers Go Missing at Sea

Strange things happen while at sea, and one of those things is when people go missing. It sounds weird but people really do go missing on ships. Approximately 165 people reportedly went missing while on a cruise from 1995 to 2011.

There is speculation that the number is possibly higher. This is separate from passengers that fall overboard. We're talking about people who have just disappeared without a trace and were never seen again.

<p>On occasion you will hear about pirates taking over cargo ships or something like that but you don't often hear about cruise ships being boarded. Still, it does happen, and because of that the crew is trained for it.</p><p>In 2005 a cruise ship was targeted, and the crew used some kind of acoustic weapon to assault the pirates' eardrums. The attack was thwarted, and everyone on board went about enjoying their vacations.</p>

"I'm the Captain Now" - There's a Risk of Pirates Coming Onboard

On occasion you will hear about pirates taking over cargo ships or something like that but you don't often hear about cruise ships being boarded. Still, it does happen, and because of that the crew is trained for it.

In 2005 a cruise ship was targeted, and the crew used some kind of acoustic weapon to assault the pirates' eardrums. The attack was thwarted, and everyone on board went about enjoying their vacations.

<p>Where there are often hookups between crew members, they are strictly forbidden to fraternize with passengers while on board. This rule is mainly in place to protect the crew from being accused of anything inappropriate but it is also to protect the cruise company from being sued by a passenger.</p><p>The cruise company will have a much easier time cleaning up in-house than it would feilding a public lawsuit with a passenger.</p>

No Fraternization With Guests

Where there are often hookups between crew members, they are strictly forbidden to fraternize with passengers while on board. This rule is mainly in place to protect the crew from being accused of anything inappropriate but it is also to protect the cruise company from being sued by a passenger.

The cruise company will have a much easier time cleaning up in-house than it would feilding a public lawsuit with a passenger.

<p>You have surely heard of the brig before but did you know there is one on a cruise ship and you don't have to be military to be thrown in it. It's a sort of jail cell on a ship, and it's reserved for passengers that break the law' get a bit too rowdy or in any way threaten the safety of other passengers or crew.</p><p>There is no judge or jury on a ship so if you're thrown in the brig, you'll most likely spend the rest of your vacation there or until the ship makes port and can offload you to the authorities. Sometimes this leaves you in a different country than the one you sailed from.</p>

You're Under Arrest

You have surely heard of the brig before but did you know there is one on a cruise ship and you don't have to be military to be thrown in it. It's a sort of jail cell on a ship, and it's reserved for passengers that break the law' get a bit too rowdy or in any way threaten the safety of other passengers or crew.

There is no judge or jury on a ship so if you're thrown in the brig, you'll most likely spend the rest of your vacation there or until the ship makes port and can offload you to the authorities. Sometimes this leaves you in a different country than the one you sailed from.

<p>It's never good when someone goes overboard but on a cruise ship it can be especially complicated to initiate a rescue. If a passenger goes overboard during a cruise, you may see crew members throwing stuff over the side in order to mark where they are in the water.</p><p>There aren't any landmarks in the ocean, meaning your brain doesn't have anything to refer to when trying to locate an overboard passenger from the top of a very high cruise ship.</p>

Rescuing Passengers Who Went Overboard Is Complicated

It's never good when someone goes overboard but on a cruise ship it can be especially complicated to initiate a rescue. If a passenger goes overboard during a cruise, you may see crew members throwing stuff over the side in order to mark where they are in the water.

There aren't any landmarks in the ocean, meaning your brain doesn't have anything to refer to when trying to locate an overboard passenger from the top of a very high cruise ship.

<p>If you have ever noticed your crew is especially happy or chatty it may be because they have had a couple of drinks themselves. Crew members get great discounts on alcohol and although most cruise lines say they randomly test their employees to ensure that they're not drinking while on the job, they still manage to sneak a few drinks here and there.</p><p>According to former crew members, it happens more than from time to time. Some former crew members have also come out and said that drinking among crew members is much more common than some cruise companies would have their passengers believe.</p>

Crew Members Are Drinking All Day on Cruises

If you have ever noticed your crew is especially happy or chatty it may be because they have had a couple of drinks themselves. Crew members get great discounts on alcohol and although most cruise lines say they randomly test their employees to ensure that they're not drinking while on the job, they still manage to sneak a few drinks here and there.

According to former crew members, it happens more than from time to time. Some former crew members have also come out and said that drinking among crew members is much more common than some cruise companies would have their passengers believe.

<p>We all heard about outbreaks onboard cruise ships curing the 2020 pandemic. They got big news coverage as essentially floating petri dishes. Due to thousands of people situated together in a tight space the outbreaks seem to spread faster.</p><p>Even before the pandemic there were plenty of outbreaks. For example in 2014, around eight cruise ships and many of their passengers were hit with the norovirus. As a result there have been strict procedures and rules to limit the spread of sickness during an outbreak but the risk is always going to be there.</p>

Disease Outbreaks Are More Common Than You Think

We all heard about outbreaks onboard cruise ships curing the 2020 pandemic. They got big news coverage as essentially floating petri dishes. Due to thousands of people situated together in a tight space the outbreaks seem to spread faster.

Even before the pandemic there were plenty of outbreaks. For example in 2014, around eight cruise ships and many of their passengers were hit with the norovirus. As a result there have been strict procedures and rules to limit the spread of sickness during an outbreak but the risk is always going to be there.

<p>There are a lot of reasons that cruise lines don't tend to hire American workers and one of the reasons is that Americans wouldn't put up with the long hours required on a cruise ship. The typical work week in America is around 40 hours, compared to the sometimes 100-hour long work week on a cruise ship.</p><p>Together with different and less generous overtime rules as well as lower pay, it's not hard to see why there aren't as many Americans in the cruise industry.</p>

Crew Members Are Mostly From Outside of the USA

There are a lot of reasons that cruise lines don't tend to hire American workers and one of the reasons is that Americans wouldn't put up with the long hours required on a cruise ship. The typical work week in America is around 40 hours, compared to the sometimes 100-hour long work week on a cruise ship.

Together with different and less generous overtime rules as well as lower pay, it's not hard to see why there aren't as many Americans in the cruise industry.

<p>Cruise ships aren't really required to operate to the same standards as other companies located on land in the U.S. and because of that the medical care available to passengers can sometimes be hit or miss.</p><p>It's common for cruise ships to hire doctors from countries with lower medical standards than in the U.S. and also have the facilities on board a cruise ship to be not quite as great as you'd find on land. Together with the fact that doctors on cruise ships basically can't be sued for malpractice, it leaves something lacking in the care like on a lot of cruise ships.</p>

Medical Care Can Be Spotty

Cruise ships aren't really required to operate to the same standards as other companies located on land in the U.S. and because of that the medical care available to passengers can sometimes be hit or miss.

It's common for cruise ships to hire doctors from countries with lower medical standards than in the U.S. and also have the facilities on board a cruise ship to be not quite as great as you'd find on land. Together with the fact that doctors on cruise ships basically can't be sued for malpractice, it leaves something lacking in the care like on a lot of cruise ships.

<p>Where does all the human waste go when you're on a ship and out at the ocean? It goes exactly where you might expect it to go, in the ocean. Cruise ships simply dump waste when they are around 12 miles from shore. They are required to treat it first but it still isn't great for the environment and it's quite gross.</p><p>Not all countries have the same laws either and this means that sometimes cruise ships will discharge waste when they're closer to shore in a country with more lax laws like recently when Canadians complained about U.S. cruise ships dumping near British Columbia.</p>

Where Does All The Waste Go?

Where does all the human waste go when you're on a ship and out at the ocean? It goes exactly where you might expect it to go, in the ocean. Cruise ships simply dump waste when they are around 12 miles from shore. They are required to treat it first but it still isn't great for the environment and it's quite gross.

Not all countries have the same laws either and this means that sometimes cruise ships will discharge waste when they're closer to shore in a country with more lax laws like recently when Canadians complained about U.S. cruise ships dumping near British Columbia.

<p>It goes without saying that rooms for crew members are much different than the rooms for guests on cruise ships. Crew quarters are very cramped in comparison and for the most part rooms are shared by multiple crew members.</p><p>That being said, crew members do have their own break areas and even have crew-only events, classes, and a pool for staff only. On the downside they don't really get to enjoy all of that stuff very often because they work such long hours.</p>

Tight Quarters for the Crew

It goes without saying that rooms for crew members are much different than the rooms for guests on cruise ships. Crew quarters are very cramped in comparison and for the most part rooms are shared by multiple crew members.

That being said, crew members do have their own break areas and even have crew-only events, classes, and a pool for staff only. On the downside they don't really get to enjoy all of that stuff very often because they work such long hours.

<p>You would think there would be some kind of system making sure every guest is accounted for when they cruise pulls away from port but there isn't. The cruise is not going to wait at port for a couple of passengers who failed to get back in time. If you're late getting back to the ship there is a good chance you will be watching from shore as your ship sails away.</p><p>That's why it's important that you always remember to get back to the ship well before it's scheduled departure. It's also a good idea to carry your documents and passport with you just in case you're left behind in a foreign country.</p>

Cruise Ships Wait For No One

You would think there would be some kind of system making sure every guest is accounted for when they cruise pulls away from port but there isn't. The cruise is not going to wait at port for a couple of passengers who failed to get back in time. If you're late getting back to the ship there is a good chance you will be watching from shore as your ship sails away.

That's why it's important that you always remember to get back to the ship well before it's scheduled departure. It's also a good idea to carry your documents and passport with you just in case you're left behind in a foreign country.

<p>To keep things running smoothly while feeding thousands of guests, it's no surprise that most cruise ship kitchens run their operations with military-like precision. With that many mouths to feed they have to ensure that they have enough food on board for everyone and stay within a budget working hard to eliminate waste.</p><p>Some kitchens are so precise that they can predict consumption down to a margin of two meals for a week. Sometimes crews even change up how much they order based on the nationality of their guests. For example, a ship with many Americans might order more ketchup than one with a majority of other nationalities.</p>

Preparing the Kitchen Is Done With Military Precision

To keep things running smoothly while feeding thousands of guests, it's no surprise that most cruise ship kitchens run their operations with military-like precision. With that many mouths to feed they have to ensure that they have enough food on board for everyone and stay within a budget working hard to eliminate waste.

Some kitchens are so precise that they can predict consumption down to a margin of two meals for a week. Sometimes crews even change up how much they order based on the nationality of their guests. For example, a ship with many Americans might order more ketchup than one with a majority of other nationalities.

<p>Alcohol is always the most expensive part of any trip for good reason. There are really good margins for alcohol sales so it makes sense that there would be strict rules regarding their biggest money maker. Cruise lines force you to use the bars on the ship and for this reason, people have figured out how to smuggle their own booze onto cruises.</p><p>For these reasons guests get really inventive with the way they smuggle on alcohol. One way of sneaking alcohol on board a cruise ship involves filling a plastic bladder with booze in an effort to evade x-ray detection. People have also resorted to filling mouthwash bottles with alcohol and adding food coloring to dye them a specific color.</p>

Hiding Drinks Isn't Easy

Alcohol is always the most expensive part of any trip for good reason. There are really good margins for alcohol sales so it makes sense that there would be strict rules regarding their biggest money maker. Cruise lines force you to use the bars on the ship and for this reason, people have figured out how to smuggle their own booze onto cruises.

For these reasons guests get really inventive with the way they smuggle on alcohol. One way of sneaking alcohol on board a cruise ship involves filling a plastic bladder with booze in an effort to evade x-ray detection. People have also resorted to filling mouthwash bottles with alcohol and adding food coloring to dye them a specific color.

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Couple decide to live on cruise ship permanently after finding it's cheaper than paying mortgage

Angelyn and richard burk ditched their lives in seattle to live on a cruise ship.

Niamh Shackleton

If you're struggling to pay off your mortgage, there could be a cheaper (and, arguably, more exciting) alternative for you.

It's not new information that housing prices have been on the increase in recent years - with your average home in the US now costing $417,700, as of late 2023.

With the price of houses in mind, one couple decided to ditch their Seattle home in favor of a life at sea.

No, they didn't become pirates; instead Angelyn and Richard Burk chose to live on cruise ships .

The Burk’s adventure began in May 2021 and according to their research, this unusual method of living on cruise ships is much prettier on their pockets and bank accounts than paying off a mortgage.

“We love to travel, and we were searching for a way to continuously travel in our retirement that made financial sense,” Angelyn, a former accountant, explained to Australia’s 7News a year after their adventure began.

Both Angelyn and Richard are in their 50s and realized they could continue their love of travelling for the rest of their lives, travelling for as little as $62 AUD ($40 USD, £32) a day.

As of 2021, Angelyn and Richard have lived on cruise ships. (Angelyn Burk)

They've hopped on and off various cruise ships around the world, including a 51-day trip from Seattle to Sydney . Some of their top spots have been Singapore, Italy, Canada and the Bahamas.

“Our original plan was to stay in different countries for a month at a time and eventually retire to cruise ships as we got older,” Angelyn explained.

“We love to travel and we were searching for a way to continuously travel in our retirement that made financial sense.”

The couple live a frugal life, and thanks to their loyalty memberships and by taking advantage of sales, they could retire right away.

They don’t plan to return to living on dry land or doing nine-to-fives again (and I don't blame them!).

The couple found that their cruise ship lifestyle was within their retirement budget. (Angelyn Burk)

Angelyn told CNN in April 2022 that the average cost per day was $89 USD, which included the price of their room, food, entertainment, transportation, tips, port fees and taxes.

According to Zillow, at the time of writing, the average Seattle home value is $879,412 - up 2.2 percent over the past year.

“This is well within our retirement budget,” Angelyn added, explaining that going on a bunch of cruises has helped their funds thanks to loyalty schemes.

Talk about savvy.

Topics: Life , Travel , Cruise ship

Niamh Shackleton is an experienced journalist for UNILAD, specialising in topics including mental health and showbiz, as well as anything Henry Cavill and cat related. She has previously worked for OK! Magazine, Caters and Kennedy.

@ niamhshackleton

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Meet the Panelist: Tracie, Florida

Ahoy! Just like Moana, I feel the irresistible call of the sea. I think the best vacation is aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship – thankfully, my family agrees. Whether savoring gelato in Italy, snorkeling in Mexico, or basking in the sea breeze on deck, each destination fills us with memories to last a lifetime. I look forward to helping your family plan a Disney Cruise Line adventure brimming with cherished moments!

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COMMENTS

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Even retired, a group of Navy Seals could deal a ton of damage to a group of pirates! The sheer number of passengers and personnel on cruise ships would dissuade most pirates, too. "The reason they board tankers is because it only take about 7 people to crew those beasts. 7 people are easier to overcome than 700," explained @jkandus.
Passengers describe pirates' assault on cruise ship
The liner had been at the end of a 16-day voyage from Alexandria, Egypt. The 440-foot-long, 10,000-ton cruise ship, which is registered in the Bahamas, sustained minor damage, the cruise company said.
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May 1, 2019. 4.1Kshares. If you think pirates only exist on attractions at Disneyland, think again: Two different cruise ships have recently taken fairly extreme measures to make sure those aboard ...
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Attack on the MSC Melody: Passengers Fought Pirates with Tables and
When pirates attacked the cruise ship MSC Melody on Saturday, the captain was making small talk at the bar. Passengers have given a version of events that is more dramatic than the crew's accounts.
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Take a cruise adventure and experience the Pirate's path. Book Now. Best Cruises in 2022-2023. I cruised to the Caribbean to follow the pirates of the Golden Age of Piracy to all the major pirating ports. From Nassau, Bahamas and Port Royal, Jamaica to Barbados and St. Croix. Check out my journey on the pirates path through the Caribbean.
How Do Cruise Ships Protect Against Pirates
Cruise ships navigating these routes must take precautions to mitigate the risk of an attack. This article will delve into the different measures cruise ships employ to protect against pirate attacks. From ship hardening techniques to onboard surveillance systems, the safety of passengers and crew is a top priority for the cruise industry.
Do cruise ships get attacked by pirates?
Depending on the location of the cruise ship, it's possible that it could get attacked, but the chances of a pirate attack on a cruise ship are very slim. Over the past few years, there have been some pirate attacks on cruise ships in areas off the coast of northeastern Africa, Malaysia, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Sudan ...
When PIRATES ATTACK a Luxury CRUISE SHIP This Is How They Defend
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How Do Cruise Ships Protect Against Pirates
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Modern Day Pirates Attack Cruise Ship. (3m 0s) tv-pg. In 2005, the cruise ship Seaborne Spirit was attacked by pirates off the coast of Somalia.
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Cruise Ship Facts That Are Rarely Talked About
In 2005 a cruise ship was targeted, and the crew used some kind of acoustic weapon to assault the pirates' eardrums. The attack was thwarted, and everyone on board went about enjoying their vacations.
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The couple found that their cruise ship lifestyle was within their retirement budget. (Angelyn Burk) Angelyn told CNN in April 2022 that the average cost per day was $89 USD, which included the price of their room, food, entertainment, transportation, tips, port fees and taxes. According to Zillow, at the time of writing, the average Seattle ...
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What day is pirate day on the Disney Dream cruise sailing on 4/26/24-5/1/24? ... Ahoy! Just like Moana, I feel the irresistible call of the sea. I think the best vacation is aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship - thankfully, my family agrees. Whether savoring gelato in Italy, snorkeling in Mexico, or basking in the sea breeze on deck, each ...