Jessop
The narrator and sole known survivor, an able seaman who observes the haunting from its first unmistakable manifestation.
Tammy
A young apprentice who sees figures at the wheel and confides his sightings to Jessop, becoming the one shipmate who believes him.
Williams
A Cockney sailor who remained with the Mortzestus in port and takes its haunting seriously before dying during the voyage.
The second mate
The officer most willing to listen to Jessop and organize practical responses to the supernatural danger.
The captain / Old Man
The Mortzestus's master, slow to accept supernatural explanations but eventually forced to change the ship's routine.
The mate
A harsh officer whose bullying and skepticism worsen tension among the frightened crew.
Stubbins
A sailor who becomes one of Jessop's most reliable companions before disappearing during the attacks aloft.
Plummer
A crewman involved in the rigging incidents and the increasingly dangerous searches.
Jaskett
An older seaman whose observations help confirm that the experiences are not confined to Jessop and Tammy.
The ghost pirates
Shadowy seamen associated with spectral vessels who finally board and overwhelm the Mortzestus.