Emotions. And yes that sounds like Skulduggery, he's attempting to solve the mystery of the ship I think. Or more accurately the mystery of the Captain.

[It takes a moment to parse what Stede actually means with that drunken twist of aphorisms.]

Oh he's likely in his cabin on the bridge, you can simply go there if you wish. From what I've seen he does often answer the door. But, pardon the bluntness, you should do that sober.