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A Modern Plague of Pirates

Pirates piracy and armed robbery againstships is as old as maritime navigation itself.Today,  modern piracy and armed robbery at sea remains a hidden but very real problem in many parts of the world, an ever-present risk and challenge for ships and Ship Masters and their crews. Acts of contemporary piracy and by modern day  pirates can range from simple armed attacks by opportunists, to organised crime on an international scale. Hundreds of pirate attacks take place every year and the modern pirate has become ever more sophisticated, audacious and violent than ever before. No longer is an act of modern piracy on the high seas limited to plunder or theft but includes other violent crimes such as seajacking,kidnapping, murder and rape. International trade and commerce are threatened as never before by modern pirates. Sea routes are risky. "Protect your ship and protect your crew" is a theme that Captain Peter Corbett drives home as he transports the reader on some realistic sea cruises. As a Captain or Master for over 25 years, Corbett presents a treasure chest of learning, experience and wisdom. A Master's preparation and vigilance, in port and at sea, are constant priorities needed for the safety of ship and crew. Today's ships are high value targets. The stakes are huge. Corbett reminds us that three-quarters of earth's surface is water and almost 95 % of world commerce occurs via the seas. At sea the only real, operative law is the Captain and his crew for the most part. Today’s seas are danger zones.