The Open Boat characters

Appears from the start

One of four survivors crowded into a small dinghy after their ship sinks. He observes the sea, the boat, and his companions closely, and much of the story follows his changing thoughts about danger, fate, and human fellowship. He takes a turn rowing despite his exhaustion.

Appears from the start

The injured leader of the four survivors. Although unable to row, he directs the dinghy with calm practical judgment, watches the waves, and decides when the men should attempt to reach shore.

Also known as The Oiler

Appears from the start

The ship's oiler and the only one of the four men given a personal name. He is physically capable and shares most of the hard rowing with the correspondent as the dinghy struggles toward land.

Appears from the start

The ship's cook, one of the four survivors in the dinghy. He helps keep the boat balanced and bails out water while the oiler and correspondent row. His hopeful guesses about the shore offer a contrast to the captain's caution.