Which of the following were particularly significant features in the seizure of the Sirius Star by
Somali pirates in November 2008? (Select all applicable answers)
The ship was seized at an unexpectedly large distance from the nearest land.
There was a significant risk of pollution if the ship had been damaged.
2. Within the region listed as the North Indian Ocean / Arabian Sea / East Africa, which sea area is
considered the most dangerous for piracy activity?
6. Pirates sometimes use larger vessels to tow smaller boats far out into the ocean, to enable them
to attack ships far away from the coast. What name is generally given to these larger vessels?
Mother ships.
7. Pirates generally observe a potential target before attacking. Which of the following will they
typically look for on a merchant ship as signs of weakness? (Select all applicable answers).
Slow speed.
Low freeboard.
Lack of preparation.
Lack of alertness.
Slow response.
8. The primary information on preparing the ship against attacks by pirates is located in which of
the following sources?
Because the boats are often made of wood and present poor radar targets.
11. Which of the following are examples of navigational procedures that have been implemented in
known piracy areas to better protect merchant ships? (Select all applicable answers)
The AIS.
14. How is it recommended that deck lighting is used when transiting an area of known piracy
activity?
It should be provided only as required for safety and otherwise kept switched off.
15. If a small craft is acting suspiciously close to the ship and it is suspected that an attack might
take place, what kind of alert message should be broadcast over the VHF?
Pan Pan
16. If a pirate attack is underway, what kind of message should be broadcast over the VHF?
Mayday
17. What kind of signal does the SSAS send?
A covert, silent ship-to-shore signal, alerting the Company, the Flag State authorities and
closest national authorities.
18. You are the Captain of a ship that has been boarded by pirates. Despite your crews best efforts,
they manage to reach the bridge and have gained entry. They have the cook with them and
are holding a knife to his neck. What will you do?
It can buy time for the naval task force to reach the ship.
20. The International Maritime Organization is very clear in its recommended policy on firearms
being used to defend merchant ships and their crews against attacks by pirates. What does it
recommend?
Stay calm.
Be cooperate.
Obey instructions.
22. What is the role of a negotiator?
He acts as the middle man between the owners and the pirates.
23. Your ship was taken by pirates and the ships crew have been confined to the messroom. The
ship has broken down in international waters and surrounded by a naval task force. Suddenly,
you realise that a rescue mission is being attempted. Which of the following will you do?
(Select all applicable answers)
Answer questions.
Armed robbery.