One Piece: The Real Vice Captain Of The Straw Hat Pirates, Explained

One Piece: The Real Vice Captain Of The Straw Hat Pirates, Explained

As a long-time enthusiast of One Piece, I can’t help but feel a sense of camaraderie with these unique characters that Eiichiro Oda has so brilliantly crafted. The Straw Hat Pirates are indeed a one-of-a-kind family, and their structure is unlike any other pirate crew we’ve seen in the One Piece world.


This article contains spoilers from One Piece’s Latest Arc.

Key Takeaways

  • Zoro isn’t the vice-captain of the Straw Hat Pirates; there is no official vice-captain in the crew.
  • The crew functions like a family, with different members taking the lead in various situations.
  • Luffy relies heavily on his crew, who are all equally important; they guide each other on the path to the One Piece.

The Straw Hat Pirates, a formidable crew from the world of “One Piece,” are classified as a Yonko group and are known to be one of the most powerful. Originated in the East Blue, this pirate gang has carved out an exceptional legacy since they embarked on their voyage. Currently, they are expected to dominate the seas and witness their captain, Luffy, ascend to the title of Pirate King. Despite everyone being familiar with the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates, there is often confusion among “One Piece” fans regarding the role of Vice Captain within this crew.

For numerous pirate groups sailing the seven seas, the role of Deputy Captain holds significant importance, and undeniably, the Straw Hat Pirates have a unique perspective regarding this position.

The Misconception Surrounding The Vice Captain Or First Mate Of The Straw Hat Pirates

One Piece: The Real Vice Captain Of The Straw Hat Pirates, Explained
  • Zoro Joined Luffy Before Anyone Else
  • Fans Mistakenly Call Zoro First Mate

When discussing the roles of Vice Captain and First Mate in a pirate crew, it’s essential to clarify that these positions hold the same authority. Contrary to popular belief among fans, the title of First Mate does not refer to the first person to join the crew. Instead, it is an alternate term for the Vice Captain, who assists the captain and takes charge when necessary. Unlike some crews, like the Roger Pirates or Red Hair Pirates, the Straw Hat Pirates do not have a designated First Mate or Vice Captain.

It’s common among One Piece fans to believe that Zoro is the Vice Captain of the Straw Hat Pirates, but it’s essential to clarify that Oda never explicitly stated this. Fans often assume this role for Zoro due to a widespread belief that every pirate crew in the One Piece world has a Vice Captain. However, it’s important to remember that each crew operates uniquely, and the Straw Hat Pirates are no exception. Despite many other crews having a Vice Captain, Zoro doesn’t hold this position within the Straw Hat Pirates.

The misconception about Zoro’s role as the First Mate of the Straw Hat Pirates originated from various sources, particularly mistranslations in manga adaptations and anime fansubs. For instance, some translations of the manga, such as Viz, and certain fansubs have portrayed Urouge referring to Zoro as the First Mate in the Sabaody Archipelago Arc. However, a more accurate translation of Urouge’s words is “2番手,” which means the second best member of the crew, not necessarily the First Mate. This misconception arises due to Zoro being widely regarded as the second strongest member after Luffy in the Straw Hat Pirates.

As a devoted One Piece fan, I often find myself viewing Zoro through my own personal lens. To me, Zoro is more than just a crew member; he’s the Vice Captain in spirit, even if this isn’t widely recognized within the One Piece world. However, among the Straw Hat Pirates, particularly, Zoro doesn’t hold the position of Vice Captain. This doesn’t mean that Zoro lacks a defined role, quite the contrary. Oda himself has officially designated Zoro as a 戦闘員, or Sentō-in, which translates to Combatant. In essence, Zoro serves as the combatant of the Straw Hat Pirates, and his duties are primarily focused on battle readiness.

One Piece: The Real Vice Captain Of The Straw Hat Pirates, Explained

Indeed, Oda explicitly stated that Zoro does not hold the positions of Vice Captain or First Mate within the Straw Hat Pirates, as per his response to a query about the color spread from chapter 1031 of One Piece. In this particular illustration, Oda depicted the Number Twos of various groups, and this was his commentary on the matter.

Hi Odacchi! Upon glancing at the cover of Chapter 1031, it appears as though Bepo holds the position of second-in-command within the Heart Pirates, isn’t that right!? It took me aback since I had thought that Penguin, Shachi, and Bepo all shared the No. 2 spot equally! Are you implying then that Bepo (with Sulong) holds the greatest strength among them? Sincerely, Pudding-ya

It seems that cover you’re referring to features characters who aren’t necessarily the first mates. Just like Zoro, not all of them bear the title of Vice Captain. I chose the No. 2s based on my judgment. Typically, Shachi and Penguin are more reliable, but those two who have witnessed Bepo’s Sulong form lack the combat strength compared to Bepo himself… I acknowledge him!

The Real Vice Captain Of The Straw Hat Pirates

The Straw Hat Pirates Do Not Have Any Vice Captain

Since it’s been made clear that Zoro isn’t either the Vice Captain or First Mate of the Straw Hat Pirates, one could ask who fills those roles. In truth, there is no Vice Captain or First Mate within this crew. Instead, they operate more like a family, where each member has unique responsibilities and Luffy stands as their sole captain. The Straw Hat Pirates don’t have a designated leader other than Luffy. Although different characters may step up to lead in various situations, Jinbe, Sanji, Nami, and even Zoro are often more reliable when it comes to making decisions.

Among the Straw Hat Pirates, Jinbe and Robin are highly experienced and reliable in various situations. Sanji is recognized for his strategic skills, sometimes referred to as the strategist of the group, and tends to remain calm even when Luffy does not. Zoro excels in combat and has demonstrated leadership qualities similar to the others. Lastly, when it comes to exploration and other tasks, Robin takes charge and assumes a leadership role. Each member contributes uniquely to the crew’s success.

The Straw Hats Are All Equally Important

It’s evident that the Straw Hat Pirates boast multiple reliable captains, each with unique skills. This pirate group is more like a tight-knit family, unlike other crews in the One Piece universe. Instead of following a traditional chain of command, they adapt their leadership based on the circumstances. Sometimes, even Luffy, their captain, may be outmaneuvered by other members due to his lack of knowledge in specific situations.

To put it simply, Luffy stands out as a captain unlike any other. He openly acknowledges that without his dedicated crew, he wouldn’t be able to traverse even half of the Grand Line. His qualities are greatly influenced by his crew, and he depends on them immensely. The crew serves not only as Luffy’s compass towards the One Piece, but also as a safeguard for him. This unique bond they share is unlike any other in the world of One Piece. It’s crucial to recall that every member of this family, including Luffy himself, holds equal importance for one another. Fans should bear in mind that Luffy values each and every one of them equally, and they are all equally devoted to him.

You can access “One Piece” for reading through Viz Media. Fans have the opportunity to read it officially and free of charge on both Shonen Jump and Manga Plus apps. Mark your calendars, as the next chapter, One Piece Chapter 1129, is scheduled to be released on October 13, 2024.

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2024-10-12 02:37