Carracas, the sailing ships of the Age of Discovery

An interior section of the Sao Gabriel, Portuguese carrack and flagship of Vasco da Gama’s navy on its first voyage to India in 1497-1499.

As part of the Portuguese fleet, the ship arrived at the port of Calicut and then returned to Portugal in very poor condition after a trip of more than three months.

Carracas were large sailing ships used between the 14th and 16th centuries, mainly in Europe. They were robust and versatile vessels, designed to sail long distances, making them ideal for maritime trade and voyages of exploration during the Age of Discovery.

They were used by the main maritime powers of the time, such as Portugal and Spain, and over time, they were replaced by faster and more maneuverable vessels, such as caravels and galleons.