Where this sits
Governing: BMP Maritime Security (2026 edition); MGN 440 (M) Amendment 1; gov.uk maritime security guidance; STCW Table A-VI/6-2. Builds on: L3.1.
The guidance
BMP Maritime Security (BMP MS) replaced BMP5, BMP West Africa and the Global Counter Piracy Guidance. Instead of separate regional books, it sets out one threat and risk management process that applies anywhere, with a companion Maritime Industry Security Threat Overview (MISTO) intended to be updated every 3 to 6 months. BIMCO announced the 2026 edition on 6 July 2026, adding a section on activist boardings.
UKMTO hosts BMP MS and runs the Voluntary Reporting Scheme. Its site lists an emergency telephone line of +44 (0)2392 222060. For UK ships, gov.uk advises reporting frequently to UKMTO and registering with MSCHOA when transiting its area.
Threat and risk, before sailing
The master and CSO assess the passage: current threat (MISTO, UKMTO advisories), the yacht's vulnerability (freeboard, speed, crew numbers), and the measures available. Yachts often avoid high-risk areas entirely, ship by transport vessel, or route to reduce exposure. When a yacht does transit, the plan should cover:
- reporting to UKMTO and registration where required;
- watches: extra lookouts, radar watch, night vision where carried;
- ship protection measures: controlled access to accommodation, secured doors and hatches, lighting as advised;
- a safe muster point or citadel, and the procedure to get there;
- communications, including the SSAS.
What designated crew do
| Phase | Your role |
|---|---|
| Before | Rig protection measures as ordered; check locks, lighting, radios; brief on muster point |
| Suspicious approach | Report early: bearing, distance, number of boats and people, weapons, ladders |
| Attack | Sound the alarm; follow orders; go to the muster point or citadel; account for all crew |
| Boarding | Do not resist; stay together; follow the master's instructions |
| After | Preserve evidence; write notes; support the investigation |
WARNING: Early warning is everything The longer the gap between first sighting and an attacker reaching the rail, the better the outcome. Report anything that looks wrong, early.
Armed guards
UK policy (MGN 440) is that armed guards are an option to protect life on UK ships only in exceptional circumstances and where lawful. Other flags have their own rules. On yachts, armed security is rare and always a master and company decision made in advance, never improvised.
Armed robbery at anchor
For most yachts the real risk is armed robbery and theft at anchor or in port, in the Caribbean, parts of South America, West Africa, South East Asia and elsewhere. The BMP approach still applies: assess the anchorage, keep a proper watch, secure the low access points, light the stern and waterline, bring tenders and toys in at night, and report incidents to local authorities and, where relevant, regional reporting centres.
Activists
The 2026 edition treats activist boardings as a distinct threat. Activists plan carefully and seek media coverage. The guidance is to include activism in threat assessment, secure access points, report to company and flag promptly, keep communications open with the protesters, and stay professional and documented. It advises against physical confrontation, razor wire, water cannon and interference with drones.
TIP: Log as it happens In any incident, one person should log times, positions, what was seen and what was done. It is essential for reports and for any later prosecution.