Portugal sought to bypass Persia, growing Ottoman power, and the remaining links of the older overland network. From Malindi, da Gama followed a commercial route already used by ships heading toward India. His long Indian Ocean crossing contrasts with the cautious in-and-out coastal legs he used when he lacked certainty. The navigation pattern suggests informed route-finding rather than a blind leap into the unknown.
Notable Point · 14:47-17:56
Da Gama crossed from Malindi on a known route
Da Gama's change from cautious coastal sailing to a long ocean crossing suggests informed use of an established commercial route.