pirates!

We are refueling in Singapore (though not allowed to get off the ship) and going through the Strait of Malaca (I think). These are apparently the most pirate-infested waters in the world, so we’re pushing through at 26 knots, nearly our top speed (we usually go around 17 knots). There’s a pirate watch stationed, and our ship is being escorted by police boats. We have been reassured that it is extremely unlikely that we’ll be targeted, because there are so many people on board. Usually they go for cargo ships with a lot of valuable freight and only 4-5 crew aboard. Nevertheless, we peer around in the gloomy mist that has shrouded our ship and reduced visibility.