Question 1

Your vessel receives notification that the port you are heading to has raised its Security Level from 1 to 2. As the designated Ship Security Officer (or officer on watch), what should happen?

Accepted Answer

Implement the additional security measures specified in the Ship Security Plan for Security Level 2 (e.g. increased monitoring of restricted areas, additional checks on visitors/stores, more frequent security patrols) before arrival, and acknowledge/report the change as required The Ship Security Plan defines specific additional measures for each security level. A change in level requires the vessel to implement the corresponding measures promptly — ideally before arrival — and this is a core ISPS Code obligation.

Question 2

What is the purpose of designating "restricted areas" on board under the Ship Security Plan?

Accepted Answer

To control access to areas where security-sensitive information, equipment, or cargo is held (e.g. bridge, engine room, security equipment stores), preventing unauthorised access that could compromise the security of the ship, crew, passengers or cargo Restricted areas are a core ISPS measure — limiting access to sensitive spaces reduces the risk of unauthorised interference, sabotage, or security breaches, and access control to these areas is checked during security drills and audits.

Question 3

While alongside in a marina, a person not recognised as crew, guest, or marina staff is seen walking along the pontoon near the yacht's gangway. What should the watchkeeper do?

Accepted Answer

Observe and, if appropriate, politely engage to establish their purpose, without leaving the gangway/vessel unattended; if anything seems suspicious or they attempt to board without authorisation, prevent access (if safe to do so) and alert the Officer of the Watch/Master and, if necessary, marina security Gangway watch is a basic access-control measure even in seemingly benign marina settings — calm observation, maintaining the watch position, and escalating to the OOW/Master/marina security for anything unusual is the appropriate response, rather than ignoring it or confronting alone.

ISPS Practice Questions