Question

Why did long-range voyages not follow a straight line when crossing large areas of ocean during the Age of Exploration?

Answer 1

A. Ships had to take wind and currents into account

This still holds true today, as you will find that whilst motor powered vessels do not have to worry about things such as beating, reaching, and running, they still follow the currents and go with the flow. As it is much faster and easier to do so rather than having to traverse rough waters and be in a constant argument with the current with large ships that have massive amounts of draft.

Answer 2

Why did long-range voyages not follow a straight line when crossing large areas of ocean during the Age of Exploration?

A. Ships had to take winds and current into account