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Following the threats against flights from the United Kingdom to the United States, the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL) assured passengers that cruise ship safety is this industry`s highest priority. The U.S. Coast Guard has not raised the security level for the maritime sector at this time nor changed the screening process for passengers at seaports. Passengers should continue to feel comfortable with the numerous security procedures for cruises already in place.

Cruise lines are aiding the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in their efforts to notify passengers using air transportation to and from their cruise of the restrictions in place.

As Secretary Chertoff and Attorney General Gonzales said, and the Travel Industry Association of America echoed, people should continue with their travel plans and feel confident in the heightened security screenings in place to keep the system secure. It is also important for travelers to exercise patience as the cruise industry adapts to the new security requirements.

The cruise industry is committed to providing a safe and secure shipboard environment for its passengers and crew. Cruise ships follow security measures that include:

• 100 percent screening of all carry-on luggage and checked bags
  
• Intensified screening of passenger lists and passenger identification
  
• Restricted access to sensitive vessel or terminal areas
  
• Notice given to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security before arrival into a U.S. port as well as the passenger and crew manifests submitted to federal agencies
  
• Dedicated security officer and team on board every ship
  
• Coast Guard-established security zones around cruise ships
  
• International maritime regulations that coordinate with maritime security levels

Source : Travel Daily News

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