Some lightweight controversy exists over the question of the Caravel...a much lighter vessel with a Lanteen sail (which actually needed more sailors to operate it) This was a good vessel for exploration because of its shallower draft..ideal for sailing up rivers etc... I will place it here as it was also a workhorse and a for runner to the Carrack but please consider
http://nautarch.tamu.edu/shiplab/01G...%20History.htm for a much fuller explanation.