Caravel vs. Carrack — What's the Difference?

Caravels were pivotal in early exploration, known for their speed, agility, and ability to sail close to the wind, making them ideal for navigating the uncharted waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the African coast. In contrast, carracks were larger, sturdier vessels designed to endure long sea voyages and carry substantial cargo. Characterized by their high castle-like structures at the bow and stern, carracks typically had three to four masts with a combination of square and lateen sails, providing both power and the ability to sail across and into the wind.

Caravels played a crucial role in the Age of Discovery, used by explorers like Vasco da Gama and Christopher Columbus, enabling the exploration of the Atlantic islands, the West African coast, and the oceanic route to the East. The design of caravels evolved to include both lateen-rigged and square-rigged versions, enhancing their versatility in different wind conditions. On the other hand, carracks, as the larger and more heavily armed predecessors to the galleon, were the ships of choice for long-distance trade missions, including those to the East Indies, and were instrumental in the establishment of European overseas empires.

The construction of caravels was such that they were lighter and required less draft, allowing them to navigate shallow waters and river estuaries, making them well-suited for exploration and coastal trade. Carracks, with their larger size and deeper draft, were more suited to the open ocean and capable of carrying more goods, crew, and armaments, making them the backbone of maritime commerce and naval fleets during their time.

Despite their differences, both caravels and carracks contributed significantly to the maritime advancements of the 15th and 16th centuries. The caravel's agility and speed made it a key player in the exploration of the world, while the carrack's capacity and durability facilitated the expansion of trade networks and the establishment of colonial territories.