Piracy 

Statement: Stuart Carruthers, RYA Cruising Manager, 20 April 2011

“Piracy is a thorny matter for any yachtsman planning a blue water cruise.  The fact is that if you are looking to sail through the GoA (Gulf of Aden), and Somali Basin (out to 70 degrees East and 15 degrees South), the danger of piracy and consequent loss of life is high, therefore we strongly recommend yachtsmen to avoid the area.  

“With the risk remaining high and the consequences of being seized dire, as the threshold of violence the pirates are willing to inflict increases; including torture and in some cases murder, yachtsmen should be fully aware of the risks if they choose to make passage through the area.   

 “Despite Naval warships and a number of anti-piracy missions, the military presence in the area recognises that it is unable to deter, disrupt and supress priacy. As yachts are very low and slow pirates consider them viable prey as they are vulnerable and easy to board and control.  Yachtsman should be aware that they cannot rely upon the support of local military to provide assistance, their resources are finite.  

“If you do have to travel in high risk areas:

• Don’t travel alone, however travelling in a group does not necessarily improve your safety
• Don’t be surprised; ensure you keep good watch and enhanced vigilance, CCTV, radar, anti-piracy alarms, practice crew drills
• Don’t be vulnerable; for example; add physical barriers to your boat such as razor wire 

“The bottom line for yachts transiting the high risk area, is in short, do not sail in the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, Somali Basin and Gulf of Aden.  

“Further advice is also available from the UK FCO (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) at www.fco.gov.uk"