Caveat Emptor

[richlevy]

News reports are beginning to get some detail about the ferry that sank in the Red Sea.

As indications emerged that the cause of the disaster was a fire that broke out on a lorry in the cargo hold, survivors being brought ashore yesterday told of the crew's insistence that all was well. There was also strong criticism of the captain, who reportedly had been among the first to man a lifeboat and leave the ship. Meanwhile, as a team of specialist engineers appointed by the Egyptian government began its official investigation, it emerged that the Al-Salaam '98, built in 1971, would not have been permitted to sail if it had been registered under Egyptian laws, which prohibit any vessel more than 25 years old. Instead the vessel was registered under the more lenient laws of Panama.

There are fewer and fewer passenger ships registered in the US. In many cases, this is probably a tax issue. However, when you book a cruise it is up to you to find out where the ship is registered and what that means.

I don't know US laws, but I do know that ships that leave from US ports still need to pass health inspections. I don't know if other US safety laws apply.

I remember reading about a Greek cruise ship where the captain and many bridge crew fled a shipboard fire leaving the passengers and junior officers to handle the situation.

When you pick a ship, even if it's with a known cruise line, do your own homework.