Ah, yes, but I was wondering if it was meant to be a reference to Moby Dick, on the show - or a nod by the writers? Or just something that sounded nice and space-age-y? Or do they never say?

I've not seen the show, you see. From the bits I have seen of the original, though, I could imagine them choosing the name Starbuck because it's the sort of thing a space pilot could be called. :)