The captain or the officer on watch will immediately send out a distress call on the VHF radio. The call should be clear and urgent, stating 'Mayday, Mayday, Mayday. This is MV [Vessel Name]. We are under pirate attack. Our position is [latitude and longitude]. Requesting immediate military or naval assistance.'

At the same time, the ship will try to establish communication with any nearby vessels or shore stations. They will report the situation and ask for support or relay the message to the relevant authorities. For example, 'This is MV [Vessel Name]. Pirates are approaching our ship. We need backup. Can you contact the nearest navy base?'

The crew will maintain internal communication using the ship's intercom system. They will update each other on the pirates' movements and the effectiveness of the defensive measures. Orders and instructions will be passed down quickly, such as 'Team A, hold your position at the bow. Team B, keep spraying water on the starboard side.'

If possible, the ship will try to transmit live video or photos of the pirate attack to the authorities or other vessels via satellite communication. This visual evidence can help in coordinating the response and identifying the pirates later. For example, 'We are sending you live images of the pirate skiffs approaching our ship. Please act quickly.'

“When there is a threat of pirate attack, the ship will first increase its speed to make it more difficult for pirates to board. For example, if the normal cruising speed is 12 knots, it will be accelerated to 18 knots or even faster if the ship's capabilities allow.

The crew will arm themselves with appropriate defensive tools. These can include long poles to fend off pirate grappling hooks, fire hoses set to high pressure to spray water and disrupt the pirates' approach, and in some cases, firearms if legally permitted and the crew is trained to use them. The crew will position themselves along the ship's sides and at vulnerable points such as the bow and stern.

The ship will activate its anti-piracy alarm system, which is usually a loud, distinctive sound that can alert the crew and potentially intimidate the pirates. Lights will also be flashed on and off to disorient the attackers. Additionally, the ship will deploy razor wire or other anti-climbing devices along the rails and sides to make it harder for pirates to scale the hull.

All non-essential openings and hatches will be closed and secured. This includes portholes, doors to storerooms, and access points to the superstructure. The crew will barricade themselves in key areas if necessary, creating a defensible position.