A Portuguese carrack is recalled fighting on after accompanying merchant ships withdrew during a war with the Sultan of Gujarat. Its high sides and cannon gave it advantages over the attacking galleys. When Gujarati sailors tried to board, defenders could shoot and thrust down at them with arquebuses and pikes. The example also credits Portuguese experience of fighting galleys and their opponents' unfamiliarity with the carrack. The ship and battle are left unnamed, so the engagement is not securely identified.
Notable Point · 3:44:53-3:45:55
Portuguese carrack height and firepower against galley boarding
A recalled Portuguese encounter with Gujarati galleys illustrates how hull height, cannon and weapons against boarding could offset a numerical disadvantage.