In the hymn, who is being addressed in prayer primarily?

In the hymn, the primary focus is on addressing God or a higher power. This reflects the spiritual element commonly found in naval hymns, which are often written to convey reverence and seek guidance or protection for the sailors. The language and themes typically emphasize a connection to faith, imploring divine assistance and safeguarding for those who serve at sea. By addressing a higher power, the hymn encapsulates the essence of devotion and camaraderie among service members as they look to their faith for strength and comfort in challenging situations. This makes the choice of a higher power as the primary address a central tenet of maritime tradition, reinforcing the spiritual bond among sailors and their reliance on divine support.