Royal Decree

The annual Seatrade awards, presented at a dinner at the Guildhall in London on the evening of 4 April, recognised actions to counter the piracy threat as well as the usual technological achievements.

The awards were presented by guest of honour HRH The Princess Royal, who reminded those present that over 600 seafarers were currently being held hostage by Somali pirates. She also spoke out that the troubles at sea facing seafarers have their solutions on ashore.

Princess Anne is a supporter or a range of maritime related interests, from the Mission to Seafarers, Honorable Company of Master Mariners and others. Her comments will hopefully remind the mainstream press and public of the need for real political will and action to end piracy.