From the coast of Peru to the South China Sea, acts of piracy have been increasing. How likely is it to happen to your family? Allay those fears and keep up to date with these tips and more.

With so many reports of piracy on far-away high seas, it seems logical that many travelers this year will not be considering a remote cruise as their number one vacation idea. On the other hand, the rise of reported attacks in the past years has given the chance for cruise line companies to prepare for the worst and ensure the safety of their passengers.

In April of 2009, the cruise ship MSC Melody, destined for Italy, was attacked by Somalian pirates at the Seychelles Islands, located several hundred miles off the east coast of Africa. Though the ship was purportedly fired upon, it managed to easily escape and no passengers were harmed.

Attacks like the one on the Melody have been on the rise, particularly in the West Indian Ocean area. The International Maritime Bureau, in a report for 2008, counted over 90 attempted pirate attacks in the Gulf of Aden area alone, just off the coast of Somalia. Already by May of this year, a total of 71 attempted attacks had been reported.

Yet, for as many acts of piracy in these waters and elsewhere, the bulk of attacks has been directed not at cruise ships, but other vessels such as tankers, tugs and bulk carriers.

Still, cruise liners are taking heed of attacks on any type of vessel, implementing such safety practices as mandatory drills for passengers and traveler instruction before entering any perilous territory.

Earlier in 2009, Crystal Cruises offered guests complimentary air travel to bypass risky waters, only to find that their efforts were all for naught. “When we offered this option, it was because there were so many erroneous news reports about the piracy situation and how that affected cruise ships,” said Mimi Weisband, spokesperson for Crystal Cruises. “We wanted to give booked guests an option for those who were too nervous to make the transit." She adds, "As it turned out, and as expected, our transit was uneventful.”

For those willing to brave the journey through questionable territories, a popular suggestion widely circulated in the media has been the inclusion of weapons onboard. Adopted by the majority of vessels and detailed by the United Kingdom Mutual Steam Ship Assurance Association, the argument against onboard weapons includes “risks inherent in use of arms by untrained/improperly trained persons, the enhanced risk of loss of life/injury through armed engagement and the risk of encouraging the escalation of armed engagement and the use of more potent and warlike weaponry.”

At this point, a defenseless cruise ship might not be the most enticing option for those who want to experience an exotic African cruise or a romantic trip through the Red Sea. Nevertheless, there are several helpful safety tips for a safe and fun journey for the determined traveler.

1. The Bigger, The Better

While a cruise on a smaller, more private ship may seem like a better option for a relaxing voyage, larger cruise lines are a safer bet. Reports from the International Maritime Organization have shown that smaller vessels are targeted more frequently for attacks than larger ships, given their easy accessibility and a smaller number of individuals to keep under control.

2. Practice Makes Preparation

Previously mentioned, some cruise lines offer drills for their passengers before entering dangerous waters. It’s a good idea to participate in these practices (Some, of course, may not give you the choice) in case the worst should happen. For ships that do not offer these exercises in safety, visit the cruise line’s website or contact an agent to receive any safety tips and travel suggestions they may have.

3. Knowing Is Everything

Even before the trip, it’s not a bad idea to do a little research on the waters your ship will be passing through. The International Chamber of Commerce provides a live piracy map displaying the locations of attempted attacks in the past years. Knowing these areas and planning a cruise to avoid such places will help in making a safer, less worrisome vacation. 

4. Making Your Presence Known

Registering a trip itinerary with the U.S. Embassy is a smart move for a few good reasons: The first is in case travelers need to be alerted to any emergencies; the second, in case the travelers themselves are the ones found in an emergency situation. While it’s important for the U.S. government to know where its citizens are in case of a disaster, it might also be a wise idea to notify friends and relatives before taking a lengthy trip overseas.

5. Don’t Worry, Be Happy

While many cruise lines have added extra security measures to ward off any possible attack, these vessels already have effective anti-piracy maneuvers in place. Larger cruise ships have an advantage should they come under attack, reaching high speeds near impossible for smaller pirate ships to match. Along with onboard security officers, an adept crew and carefully prepared anti-piracy plans, it’s that much more difficult for a successful assault.

Some ships have even been equipped with long-range acoustic instruments that send ear-splitting sonic waves to the attacker. While any traveler would hope not to be around when one of these deafening devices is activated, it’s a comforting thought to know they’re around for any emergencies.

Most importantly, whether your ship will be cruising through pirate-infested waters or not, follow the Boy Scout motto: "Be prepared."

To keep updated on information pertaining to piracy around the globe, be sure to bookmark both the International Maritime Organization and ICC Commercial Crime Services websites.