i have got a suspicion that since i installed build12.1, the officers abilities don't do anything anymore. i discovered this by removing my navigator before a boarding. he was the only officer with increased sailing speed, but when i removed him, my speed didn't drop at all. sailing skill seems to have less effect than it used to. same for cannon skill. i turn slower than i used to with a sailing skill of ten, and i load my cannons slower. if i have the skill or ability myself, it does have effect.