- Caravels used lateen sails, which were triangular in shape and could catch the wind from any direction, making them highly efficient and maneuverable.
- The lateen sails also allowed caravels to tack against the wind, enabling them to sail into the wind and reach desired destinations more effectively.
Hull Design:
- Caravels had a lightweight and streamlined hull design that reduced water resistance and enhanced speed and maneuverability. The hull's shape, with a narrow beam and a long waterline, made it more efficient to move through the water.
Stern Rudder:
- Caravels incorporated a stern rudder, a significant innovation at the time. The stern rudder provided better control and maneuverability, allowing sailors to steer the vessel more efficiently and accurately.
Compass:
- The introduction of the magnetic compass in navigation played a crucial role in the success of caravels. With the compass, sailors could determine their direction and navigate more precisely during their voyages.
Portuguese Cartography:
- Portuguese cartographers developed innovative and accurate maps, known as "portolan charts," which helped sailors navigate their routes more accurately and plan their journeys with greater confidence.
Shipbuilding Expertise:
- The Portuguese had a long tradition of shipbuilding and seafaring, which gave them the knowledge and expertise to design and construct caravels that were well-suited for their voyages of exploration.