SECURITY measures in the shipping industry could result in serious delays for many cruise passengers and could even see some companies change their programmes and boycott countries that fail to adhere to new stricter standards. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is introducing revised security guidelines designed to protect ships from possible terrorist attack, which could soon see ports resembling aircraft departure lounges. The new measures will be introduced from July 1 and will see the introduction of airport-style screening before passengers embark the vessel. Although the IMO is concerned that only a small number of ports and ship operators have confirmed their intent to enforce the new requirements, it believes that the impact on passengers should the rules be fully enforced will be minimal, but has warned that increasing boarding times could delay many cruises.
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