Navigation exams and the captain's table

The lieutenant's examination tested navigation above all, alongside tactics and some law of the sea. Three captains could pose a scenario involving wind, rocks, an enemy warship and the handling of the candidate's own ship. The sailing master provided much of a young officer's navigation training. Dinner at the captain's table offered a place to discuss practical decisions and learn how experienced officers reasoned through them. Lieutenants and midshipmen who were off watch could share stories and ask questions in a less formal setting, although deference to the captain remained. The captain's table supported professional development as well as the ship's social life.