Last updated: 26 October 2026 · By Steve Joury, cargo trip advisor at CargoHolidays
Cargo ship piracy still happens, but it’s concentrated in a few regions and modern ships use well-tested measures to deter and survive attacks. Many incidents are opportunistic theft at anchor rather than hijackings. Here’s the real picture.
Key facts at a glance
Reports of cargo ship piracy and armed robbery are collected by bodies such as the International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre. Activity shifts over time, but the main areas have included:
| Region | Typical pattern |
|---|---|
| Gulf of Guinea (West Africa) | Boarding and kidnapping risk offshore |
| Gulf of Aden / Somali Basin | Historic hijackings; activity has re-emerged at times |
| Singapore Strait and nearby waters | Mostly petty theft from ships under way or at anchor |
| Some anchorages in South America and Asia | Opportunistic theft of stores and equipment |
Always check current government travel advice for any region you’ll sail through.
International naval forces have patrolled key routes such as the Gulf of Aden for years, and regional cooperation in Southeast Asia shares information between countries. These efforts sharply reduced hijackings at their peak, though risks can return when attention fades.
Shipping lines and agents monitor security closely. Passenger sailings may be rerouted, or lines may stop carrying passengers on certain routes during periods of higher risk. As a passenger you’ll join security drills and follow the crew’s instructions. Read Voyager à bord d'un cargo, est-ce sans danger ? for the wider picture.
Yes, but it is concentrated in a few regions and many incidents are theft rather than hijacking.
Areas have included the Gulf of Guinea, Somali waters and parts of Southeast Asia.
By route planning, extra lookouts, physical barriers, secure citadels, reporting to navies and sometimes armed guards.
A secure room where the crew can shelter and call for help if pirates board.
Lines monitor risk closely and may reroute or not carry passengers on high-risk routes.
Choose a safe, well-planned route
We only place passengers with experienced lines. Ask us about your route.
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