jlrogers wrote:

In no particular order:

Good Judgement
Experience
Knowledge
Ability
Empathy
Courage


Does "Good Judgement" include foresight & the ability to keep several
moves ahead of the boat? IMHO that's one of the most important
characteristics of a skipper.

Empathy... yes, especially as some other pointed out, the empathy to put
crews to work at tasks appropriate to their skill.

Courage is I think over rated in a sailor. Usually any occasion calling
for bravery is due to a lack of foresight, judgement, knowledge, etc etc.

Fresh Breezes- Doug King