The caravel was a revolutionary type of ship that played a crucial role in the Age of Exploration during the 15th and 16th centuries. This vessel was designed for long voyages and was characterized by its lightweight build, lateen sails, and agility on open waters.
Before the caravel, ships like the galleon were larger and more cumbersome, making them less suited for exploration. The caravel’s design allowed it to travel faster and navigate more easily through rough seas and shallow waters, making it ideal for discovering new lands.
One of the most significant contributions of the caravel was that it enabled explorers like Prince Henry the Navigator to venture further along the West African coast and into the Atlantic Ocean. This ship facilitated the exploration of new trade routes and the eventual discovery of the Americas by Christopher Columbus in 1492.
Its ability to sail windward, thanks to the lateen sails, was a game changer. This allowed navigators to hold a course against the wind—a crucial ability for sailing into unknown territories.
In summary, the caravel’s innovative design and versatility made it the ship of choice for many explorers, helping to ignite the Age of Exploration and transform global trade and cultural exchanges.