It might have something to do with the fact that the 'life' boat is covered and they can't see what is happening.
I want obama to fail in his agenda, but I sure don't want the hostage killed because of my hate for obama.
I thought that the captain goes down with his ship? Surrender to pirates and board their vessel as a hostage?
Maersk Alabama lifeboat FAQ. (with a pic)
http://gcaptain.com/maritime/blog/maersk-alabama-lifeboat-faq/