[1][2] The Star of the Sea of the title is a famine ship, making the journey from Ireland to New York.

Key protagonists are David Merridith Lord Kingscourt, his wife Laura, their servant Mary Duane, the ship's captain Josias Lockwood, a friendless Irishman named Pius Mulvey, and American journalist Grantley Dixon.

As O'Connor was clearly aware in choosing the name, the term "Star of the Sea" has deep roots in Catholic tradition.

Our Lady, Star of the Sea—a translation of the Latin Stella Maris—is the Blessed Virgin Mary in her aspect as a guide and protector to those who work or travel on the sea and under which title she is venerated in many Catholic seaside communities.

In 2008, London band Silvery released the song "Star of the Sea" on their debut album Thunderer & Excelsior on Blow Up Records, loosely following the narrative of the book.