What to Do if Your Vessel Has Been Hijacked

Piracy and vessel hijackings are a growing international safety and financial concern. The International Chamber of Commerce’s Commercial Crime Services report there were 12 worldwide incidents of piracy within the first 21 days of 2014 alone.

Federal and international governments and safety experts routinely issue safety guidelines and updates on pirate activity. These warnings should be heeded in the interest of avoiding a hijacking, kidnapping or hostage situation. However, even with careful navigation and evasive maneuvers, you and your crew may find yourselves attacked by pirates.

What to Do If Pirates Board Your Vessel

If you operate or work on a commercial vessel, ensure you understand the company’s policy for responding in such an emergency situation.

Generally speaking, there are some recommended courses of action in the event you experience a vessel hijacking:

• Issue a distress signal or call – Issue a distress call as soon as it becomes evident you are being pursued by pirates or a hijacking seems imminent. You must do so in a calm but swift manner, as you may not have radio or phone access once the hijacking is underway. Tune your radio to the appropriate distress channel and issue a MAYDAY signal. Start by saying MAYDAY three times. State the vessel name, number, position and nature of the emergency. Include information about passengers and whether you know of any weapons involved. Continue monitoring your radio as long as you can safely do so without interference.

• Cooperate with the hijackers or pirates – This is not the time to assert yourself or assume the role of hero. Doing so may jeopardize your safety and that of your fellow crew and passengers.

• Carefully consider the use of firearms – The use of a firearm may actually endanger your crew and passengers, according to the Maritime Security Center. You may wish to defer to your company’s policy on this matter, as some crewmembers may be licensed and encouraged to carry firearms. In fact, some companies instruct crewmembers to make clear that a ship is well armed. This is a personal/company decision.

• Get people to safety – Move crew and passengers to a safe area of the ship, such as an interior cabin that can be sealed off from entry.

• Prepare for possible military intervention – Be prepared for possible confrontation in the event of a military or law enforcement intervention. Instruct all crew and passengers to get low on the deck and to cover their heads with their hands or arms. All aboard should be prepared to demonstrate to rescue forces that they are not holding weapons.

As difficult as it may be, remain as calm and rational as possible. This improves your chances of safely surviving a vessel hijacking. Proper training may help to prepare your crew for such safety threats and provide peace of mind.

Meanwhile, if you need logbooks, check out our selection and our free Logbook Quick Reference Guide.