The term "barratry" most directly refers to acts committed by whom?

The term "barratry" is a legal concept primarily associated with maritime law and refers to wrongful acts committed by a ship's crew or captain that harm the ship's owner or the ship itself. This can include acts of fraud, willful misconduct, or gross negligence that disadvantage the owner of the vessel or the cargo being transported. Given this definition, acts committed by crew members align most closely with the concept of barratry.

While passengers, owners of cargo, and shipyard workers might be involved in maritime activities, the term specifically pertains to the actions of the crew or captain who have a fiduciary responsibility to operate the vessel and manage its affairs in a manner that does not harm the interests of the shipowner.