Star Trek: All 8 captains ranked from worst to best

1. Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Starship Enterprise-D & E)

Appeared in: Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek: The original movies (1994 – 2002), Star Trek: Picard

Captain Jean-Luc Picard. Just saying his name out loud brings the weight of this iconic and revolutionary character and Starfleet Captain.

Out of all the captains in the Star Trek universe, this man, commanding both the Enterprise-D & E, has undoubtedly earned the top spot. Captain Picard is not just any starship captain – he’s the captain who seamlessly weaves together the worlds of diplomacy, archeology, and leadership and makes it look easy.

Have you ever met someone who can negotiate with Klingons in one moment, and then get giddy over an ancient artifact the next? That’s our Captain. Jean-Luc’s unmatched wisdom and unwavering principles guide the Enterprise through the vast, unpredictable void of space. And let’s not forget that iconic phrase: “Engage!” With just that one word, he commands the respect of his crew and audiences alike, propelling us all into another fun adventure.

Beyond the bravado and brilliance, lies the heart of a deeply introspective man. Picard is a captain who’ll take a quiet moment to reflect, thinking over the moral implications of a decision or, you know, casually sipping Earl Grey tea while gazing at the stars. He doesn’t shy away from tough decisions, and it’s this combination of strength and sensitivity, this magnetic moral compass, that makes fans around the world exclaim, “If I’m exploring the final frontier, I want Captain Picard in the captain’s chair!” And honestly, who could argue with that?

In the great expanse of Star Trek captains, Jean-Luc Picard rightfully takes the number one spot as the best captain in the franchise.

And that’s a wrap on Star Trek’s best captains! From sipping tea at warp speed to those unexpected dance-offs in alien discotheques, these captains sure know how to make space the final FUNtier (I am so sorry).

Whether you’re Team Picard, rooting for Kirk, or jamming with Janeway, one thing’s for sure: Star Trek wouldn’t be the same without these fine leaders.

Which of the Star Trek captains are your favorites? Have you been watching the new series in the franchise?