Levis, I believe that there is an issue with skill modifier Items when you change the role - say for Fred Bob from Boatswain to say Navigator, the addition of the best compass or any sailing modifiers don't apply.
One of the reasons for me getting Fred Bob in particular is that he previously could sail a better class of ship and had high skill statistics over the whole range and he would normally be my companion Captain, particularly with skill enhancing items. This is no longer possible as he can only sail a class 5 ship now and the skill enhancing items will not change his leadership or sailing abilities. I use these to assist my officers to be able to take on ships that I capture or when I get a better one and I need someone to captain mine.
This may now be intentional that you have to train your officers up with experience.
Let me know your thoughts, as this is a gameplay issue with my style of play. I can always change tactics.
One of the reasons for me getting Fred Bob in particular is that he previously could sail a better class of ship and had high skill statistics over the whole range and he would normally be my companion Captain, particularly with skill enhancing items. This is no longer possible as he can only sail a class 5 ship now and the skill enhancing items will not change his leadership or sailing abilities. I use these to assist my officers to be able to take on ships that I capture or when I get a better one and I need someone to captain mine.
This may now be intentional that you have to train your officers up with experience.
Let me know your thoughts, as this is a gameplay issue with my style of play. I can always change tactics.