And the cruise ship got lucky--they were able to outrun their pursuers.
What about repelling attackers?
Sorry.
Per the International Maritime Organization:
I wrote about this obscene situation years ago in my GUNS & AMMO article "A Pirate's Life For Me."
UPDATE: Publicola also has something to say.
What about repelling attackers?
Sorry.
Per the International Maritime Organization:
Firearms
45 The carrying and use of firearms for personal protection or protection of a ship is strongly discouraged.
46 Carriage of arms on board ship may encourage attackers to carry firearms thereby escalating an already dangerous situation, and any firearms on board may themselves become an attractive target for an attacker. The use of firearms requires special training and aptitudes and the risk of accidents with firearms carried on board ship is great. In some jurisdictions, killing a national may have unforeseen consequences even for a person who believes he has acted in self defence.
I wrote about this obscene situation years ago in my GUNS & AMMO article "A Pirate's Life For Me."
UPDATE: Publicola also has something to say.