The question "Have pirates ever attacked a cruise ship?" is a direct object asking if pirates have ever targeted modern passenger vessels. An infamous example is the 2008 hijacking of the MV Seabourn Spirit off the coast of Somalia, capturing 96 people for ransom.
The relevance of this topic lies in the concern for passenger safety, as cruise ships have become increasingly popular travel destinations. The potential consequences of an attack are severe, making it crucial to understand the risks and explore preventive measures.