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ICCL News Release Archives
ICCL Statement: Piracy attack off coast of Somalia
(ARLINGTON, Va.) November 7, 2005 - The cruise industry places its highest priority on the safety and security of its passengers and crew. With more than ten million passengers cruising each year, the industry takes every measure appropriate to ensure that its passengers are safe and that they have an enjoyable vacation experience.
On Nov. 5, 2005, the Seabourn Spirit was approached by two small armed boats off the coast of Somalia. The boats were unsuccessful in their attempts to board the ship. The cruise line is in close contact with authorities regarding this incident, which is believed to have a robbery motive. Due to the highly trained security staff on board the vessel, the ship was able to immediately initiate measures to safeguard the passengers and vessel. ICCL member lines have extensive onboard security plans and teams in place to protect against such scenarios, and have had these protections in place for many years.
While this type of incident has occurred on occasion to other types of ocean going vessels in remote waters around the world this is the only such known piracy attack on a cruise ship in the membership of the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL).
"This incident, while highly unusual and an isolated occurrence, demonstrates the efficiency of existing security protocols and the ability of the ship's officers and crews to protect passengers," said J. Michael Crye, president of the ICCL.
ICCL cruise line members will continue to work with all appropriate international, federal and state agencies to ensure the safety and security of all passengers and crew onboard our vessels.
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