Security Measures Taken by Cruise Ships in High-Risk Areas: A Firsthand Account

Traveling through high-risk maritime regions such as Somalia can be daunting, especially for those embarking on luxurious cruises. However, cruise ships have a range of sophisticated security measures in place to protect passengers and crew from potential pirate attacks. This article delves into the detailed security protocols implemented by cruise ships, providing a firsthand account of the preventive measures taken during a personal journey in such areas.

Global Maritime Threats and Cruise Line Protocols

The global threat from piracy has prompted cruise lines to adopt a comprehensive approach to ensuring passenger and crew safety, particularly when traversing regions known for piracy, such as Somalia. Piracy in these areas can be highly unpredictable, making it essential for cruise ships to remain vigilant and prepared at all times.

Navigational Tactics and High-Speed Operations

One of the primary strategies employed by cruise ships to deter pirate attacks is to maintain a higher speed while navigating through high-risk areas. This speed facilitates the escape from any pursuing pirates, as it is nearly impossible for traditional pirate vessels to keep up with modern cruise ships. Additionally, ships often switch to a zig-zag course, known as "SAS" (Scarborough Attachment System) tactics, to avoid being targeted.

Enhanced Security Presence

Onboard security personnel are an integral part of the security protocol. These individuals conduct regular drills and simulations to prepare for various emergency scenarios. These drills can include the use of fire hoses and other defensive measures to deter potential attackers. Furthermore, specialized security units may be deployed during particularly high-risk periods, and these teams often board the ship at sea and disembark at the end of the journey to ensure continuous protection.

Cooperation with Naval Forces

In cases where the situation demands, cruise lines collaborate with naval forces, such as naval escorts or more aggressive anti-piracy measures. These collaborative efforts can significantly enhance the security posture of the cruise ship, providing an extra layer of protection against potential threats.

Personal Experience: A Cruise Through Somali Waters

During a cruise that departed from Dubai in 2016 and transited through the Gulf of Aden and into the Red Sea, the ship took several precautionary measures to ensure passenger and crew safety. Much of this information is based on firsthand experiences, as well as the ship’s official policies and procedures.

Visibility and Security Measures

Upon approaching the high-risk corners of Yemen and Djibouti, the cruise ship significantly reduced its visibility. All exterior lights were turned off, and passengers were prohibited from being on deck. This action makes it more difficult for pirates to target the ship from a distance, as they rely on visual cues.

Boarding Drills and Firearm Preparedness

A notable feature of the security measures was the regular anti-piracy drills conducted by the ship. These drills often involved the board of a vessel that resembled a small boat, and the offloading of what appeared to be military hardware, which probably included assault rifles, submachine guns, and possibly an anti-personnel .50 caliber rifle. The ship also ensured that certain cabins had their curtains closed at night, and all exterior lights were extinguished, with the exception of navigation lights.

Emergency Procedures and Crew Training

During the drills, the crew would call out an alert similar to a medical emergency, such as Alpha Alpha Alpha. Upon hearing this, passengers in exterior cabins were instructed to leave their rooms and move to the interior of the ship. This drill was designed to ensure that passengers knew what to do in the event of an actual attack. It is worth noting that the drill was triggered on only a few nights during the journey, indicating that the risk of an actual threat was low.

A memorable moment occurred during one drill where a passenger had a severe panic attack, unable to be calmed despite assurances that it was just a drill. This highlights the importance of psychological preparedness as well as physical security measures.

Maneuverability and Security Features

Modern cruise ships are equipped with advanced technologies that allow for nimble maneuvers, particularly those that make boarding the ship more challenging. Unlike container ships, which are rigid and harder to maneuver, cruise ships can execute complex maneuvers that are not immediately apparent from the outside. This ability to maneuver was evident during the drills, where the ship would perform specific maneuvers to demonstrate its flexibility in evasive tactics.

Conclusion

Overall, cruise ships effectively implement a variety of security measures to protect their passengers and crew from pirate attacks in high-risk areas. These measures range from high-speed operations, onboard security personnel, and cooperative efforts with naval forces. Firsthand accounts from travelers provide valuable insights into the operational procedures and the psychological impact of these measures.