Preparations under Diago Cias
Under the supervision of the experienced naval officer Diogo Dias, the shipbuilders meticulously prepared for Vasco da Gama’s expedition to India. Understanding the perilous nature of the journey, they designed four ships with utmost care. Two of these were larger than the contemporary Portuguese vessels, built to withstand the treacherous conditions of the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean.
The flagship, São Gabriel (Saint Gabriel), was captained by Vasco da Gama himself. This ship, along with its sister ship São Rafael (Saint Raphael), commanded by his brother Paulo da Gama, were both robust three-masted vessels. These ships were capable of handling the unpredictable and violent storms that were common in the open seas.
Other Ships in the Fleet
In addition to the two main ships, the fleet included the Berrio, a smaller and faster caravel, which was crucial for scouting and quick manoeuvres. The fourth vessel was a store ship, often referred to as a provision ship. This ship carried essential supplies such as food, water, and other necessities for the long voyage, ensuring the fleet’s self-sufficiency during the journey.
Wood from the Royal Forests
The construction of these ships utilized the finest quality wood, sourced from the Royal Forests of Portugal. This wood was known for its durability and strength, making it ideal for building ships meant to endure long and challenging voyages.
Architecture and Design
The architecture of these ships incorporated advanced design elements for the time, including a broader beam and a deep draught, which provided greater stability and cargo capacity.
The ships had multiple decks to accommodate crew quarters, storage, and weaponry.
Cannons and Armaments
The ships were heavily armed with cannons, a standard practice in Portuguese exploration fleets. These cannons were strategically placed on the decks to provide defence against pirates and hostile forces.
The armament was essential for protecting the fleet during encounters with potentially hostile forces along the African coast and in the Indian Ocean.
Manning the Ships
The fleet was manned by a crew of experienced sailors, navigators, and soldiers. Each ship had a designated captain, and the crew members were carefully selected for their expertise and resilience.
The men on board were prepared to face the unknown challenges of the sea, including navigation through uncharted waters and possible confrontations with foreign powers.
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