We can set up a rank structure to follow victory points (to be determined), and with each rank, the character can gain a skill. Those that start as captains could start with one skill bonus, or some such thing. As for bonuses, we should not depend upon, or be restricted by, the captain/crew cards, but devise what we want, using them accordingly.

Also, we can work out an award/medal system based on the given navy. In the WoG campaigns, characters gain skills for every five kills (what I refer to above), but also receive medals/awards based on being wounded, seeing combat, etc., as was given historically by country (no skill bonus attached, but markings nonetheless).