Transiting through High-Risk Areas (HRA) like the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, or Gulf of Guinea demands total crew readiness long before a skiff appears on radar. When a pirate approach is imminent, split-second decisions and strict adherence to Best Management Practices (BMP) save lives.
Essential Protocols When Piracy Threat Is Imminent
Early Detection & Continuous Watchkeeping: Maintain a strict 360-degree visual and radar watch. Detecting suspicious craft at a distance buys vital minutes to execute evasive maneuvers, alert security forces, and prepare the crew.
Vessel Hardening & Physical Barriers: Ensure razor wire is correctly rigged along low-freeboard areas. Charge and position high-pressure fire hoses along the stern and sides to deny boarding access and flood approaching skiffs.
Citadel Procedures & Supply Checks: Verify that the safe room (citadel) is fully stocked with emergency water, rations, first aid, independent ventilation controls, and backup communication (satellite phone/VHF). Ensure all crew members know the exact trigger and route for a citadel retreat.
Distress Signals & Reporting: Immediately trigger the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) and broadcast Mayday calls via VHF/HF to nearby naval vessels and regional monitoring centers (such as UKMTO or MSCHOA).
Maximum Speed & Evasive Maneuvering: Increase speed to the vessel's maximum capability. Executing controlled weaving maneuvers creates heavy wake and rough sea conditions, making it significantly harder for small skiffs to attach ladders.
Coordination with Privately Contracted Armed Security (PCASP): If armed guards are on board, ensure strict alignment between the Master and security team on the Rules of Engagement (ROE). Non-essential crew must remain clear of firing positions and secure themselves inside designated safe zones to avoid crossfire.
