How did age-of-sail navies keep sailors from overheating in tropical waters?
Short answerThey relied on open gunports, plentiful fluids, light clothing, shade, and whatever cooling sea breeze was available.
NotesWooden sailing ships had no mechanical cooling, so crews depended on ventilation and behavior. Opening gunports admitted moving air, while sailors drank frequently, wore as little as work allowed, and sought shade. A sea breeze could make service bearable, and weather directly shaped daily life aboard ship.