Security Issues:

First and foremost, the cruise industry's highest priority is to ensure the safety and security of its passengers and crew. Cruise ships are inherently secure because they are a controlled environment with limited access. Under normal circustances security programs are stringent. However, in light of recent events, these programs have been strengthened even further. In order to maintain an effective and meaningful security environment, our member lines have established strict and highly confidential security procedures that cannot, for obvious reasons, be discussed in detail.

Cruise passengers should be very comfortable with the additional security measures they will see during their cruise vacation. This includes increased inspections of luggage and carry-on articles, additional security personnel and controls, and the use of canine inspections.

Our member lines are working closely with local, state, federal, and international authorities such as port authorities where ships call, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Interpol. This will enhance the safety and security of everyone onboard the ship. Additionally, our member lines have Security Officers who are responsible for enforcing security procedures onboard the ship.

At U.S. cruise terminals, port security includes screening procedures similar to those found at airports. The procedures include the use of metal detectors for embarking passengers. When your ship calls at foreign ports, you will be required to present your ID card provided by the cruise line, and in some cases a photo ID, when you leave and when you reboard your ship. In addition, all your possessions will be scanned by metal detectors when you reboard your ship.