Navy ranks explained
Britain’s ships ruled the waves for centuries and were manned by a rigid hierarchy of officers and sailors that is still used today
Admiral
Commanding a squadron of up to 30 ships, admirals are responsible for carrying out orders from the head of the navy (admiral of the fleet, or first sea lord) and co-ordinating operations across all vessels in their charge.
Vice & rear admiral
Second- and third-in-command respectively, the two lower-ranked admirals deputise for the admiral in their absence. The vice commands the vanguard and the rear admiral commands the less important vessels.
Commodore
The senior-most captains in service can receive this entry-level of the ‘flag ranks’. They will take on much of the responsibilities of a rear admiral, commanding a small squadron of vessels.
Captain
The highest-ranking officer of a vessel is ultimately responsible for their ship and its crew. They also ensure orders are carried out and keep a meticulous record of all the ship’s activities.
Commander
Originally created for officers commissioned for smaller vessels, on larger ships this role acts as second-in-command to the captain and can take charge in their absence or incapacity.
Lieutenant commander
After eight years’ service, lieutenants can attain this more senior rank, earning greater responsibility over the ship’s operations. This rank can also be commissioned to command a small vessel.
Lieutenant
Pronounced ‘lef-tenant’ in the Royal Navy, this rank was traditionally the lowest commissioned officer post. Lieutenants are responsible for overseeing the crew’s tasks and maintaining discipline.
Midshipman
Historically, midshipmen were boys from wealthy backgrounds seeking a prestigious career in the service. They would undertake extensive training at sea before taking the lieutenant’s exam.
Warrant officer (1 & 2)
Doctors, engineers, masters-at-arms, gunners, cooks, electricians and many other practical roles all fall under the ‘Special Duties List’ officers, which traditionally had its own separate career progression.
Petty officer
Ordinary ratings gaining promotion could eventually hold a similar position to sergeants in the Army, supervising day-to-day operations aboard ship, while also maintaining standards and discipline.
Able rate
Almost any task, from keeping watch to cleaning equipment or operating weaponry, could be assigned to a rating, or able sailor. In the past, ratings would also clamber up the tall rigging of the ship.