There is no evidence of three-masted ships prior to the 15th century. They were first developed by the Portuguese following their invention of the carrack, a type of ship that was larger and more stable than earlier vessels, and incorporated innovations like lateen sails and a more efficient hull design. The three-masted ship allowed for greater maneuverability and speed, making it ideal for long-distance voyages. The carrack was widely used by Portuguese explorers during the Age of Exploration, including Vasco da Gama, who famously sailed to India in 1498 using a three-masted carrack.