May 2008

Great Ships of our Past, Capt. George Howell
The carrack was the first style of true ocean-going ships.  Developed in the Mediterranean during the 15th century, it was well suited for making long voyages, as it was stable enough to handle rough seas, and large enough to carry provisions for extended trips.  In fact, they are the ships the Portuguese and Spanish used to explore the world in the 15th and 16th centuries.  The most famous was perhaps the Santa Maria, which Christopher Columbus used to sail to the Americas in 1492. 

Carracks were great transport ships, able to carry crew, provisions, and cargo.  This made it possible for them to by-pass normal stopping points at port, and take the most direct route.  With such size, they had no problem defending themselves from smaller craft, which were common problems during their time. An aftcastle was present in the stern, which provided a good elevated position from which to defend the ship.  The large stable decks also made a good place for guns, which bolstered its defensive abilities.

3 to 4 masts provided for some flexibility on the water, allowing speed as well as some maneuverability, with the ability to ride out rough storms.  It was square-rigged on the foremast and mainmast, and lateen-rigged on the mizzenmast.  The large square sails provided all the propulsion necessary, but were not used during rough winds to make the ship more stable.  The fore and aft sails were great for maneuverability. 

As different countries and shipbuilders developed new ideas, the carrack led way to several more types of ships.  Some were built specifically for war and some for transporting cargo.  Stay tuned next month as we take a look at another of the great ships to sail the seven seas.