During a recent voyage through the Sulu-Celebes Sea, passengers aboard Cunard’s Queen Anne cruise ship were informed of heightened security measures due to piracy risks. The ship was traveling between Darwin, Australia, and Manila, Philippines, as part of a 111-night journey.

The captain made an announcement via loudspeaker, warning passengers to maintain a heightened level of security awareness. To reduce the ship’s visibility and mitigate risks, passengers were asked to keep their curtains drawn, turn off their lights when not in use, and avoid using external promenade decks overnight.

Though the announcement surprised many, a Cunard spokesperson clarified that there was no specific threat to the ship or passengers. These precautions are part of standard maritime procedures in piracy-prone regions. Piracy incidents on cruise ships are rare, as pirates typically target cargo ships, not passenger vessels.