The History of the Caravel

During the following century (1200-1299), Early Versions of the Caravel Were First Used for Fishing

Jan 1, 1200

Although not as developed of a ship, earlier versions of the caravel were used for fishing. These early caravels were small in size and easy to maneuver, making it a perfect fishing vessel.

During this century (1300-1399), Earlier Caravels Began to Be Developed into Commercial As Well As Fishing Vessels

Jan 1, 1300

Beginning this century, caravels were adapted into the primary needs of the time. They soon became trading vessels used by many important people to run their businesses. Fsherman also employed this ship in fishing and exploring new fishing areas. In later years, it was also used to transport people and goods.

In This Year, Prince Henry the Navigator Developed the Caravel SoonTo Be Used for Exploration

Jan 1, 1415

As a young man in the 1420's Prince Henry the Navigator dreamed of exploring the west coast of Africa. Under his direction, a new and lighter ship called the caravel was developed, which allowed sea captains to sail further and faster. With the caravel hundreds of sailors successfully made the trip down the African coastline, although Henry himself didn't succeed.

Columbus Sets Sail in an Attempt to Explore Lands Beyond the Pacific with Two Caravels

Aug 3, 1492

After gaining permission from King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain, Columbus set out from Palos, Spain, on August 3, 1492. With two caravels and an additional ship, Columbus succesfully explored North America and returned to Europe on March 4, 1493.

Magellan Sets Sail in an Attempt to Circumnavigate the World with Five Caravels

Aug 10, 1519

Magellan, who was funded by the Spanish King, Charles I, set off with five caravels on August 10, 1519 to circumnavigate the world. However, before successfully returning to Europe he was killed in the Phillipines. His crew returned to Seville, Spain in 1522.

Cabrillo Embarks On a Journey To Discover the Southwestern Coast of America (California) With the Caravel Victoria

Jun 27, 1542

With the money he earned from mining gold in the Americas, Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo embarked on a voyage to become the first European explore the west coast of the North America on June 27, 1542. He successfully reached California and Mexico, establishing some towns there.