There was also just a basic matter of competence among the commissioned officers. The British Royal Navy was at least somewhat more of a meritocracy than most of their adversaries. While there was a certain level of nepotism and corruption, even aristocrats and sons of admirals generally needed some level of experience and seamanship in order to earn a promotion to lieutenant. And it was totally possible for a talented enlisted sailor to earn an officer's commission (although there was some luck involved).