How Fast Can A Medieval Sailing Ship Go?

Ancient, medieval, and pre-modern ships could travel in a month, with an average speed of 4 to 8 knots. As the medieval period transitioned into the Renaissance, exploration and the promise of new lands led to the development of ships like caravels and carracks. Medieval sailing ships were powered by sail, oar, or both, with a large variety based on older, conservative designs. In medieval times, ships in northern Europe began to change, with straight sternposts instead of curved ends. Caravels had a typical length-to-beam ratio of 3.5:1 with a shallow draught, were highly maneuverable and fast, and could have a top castle at the masthead for lookout or missile throwing. Ships like these could range in capacity from a few to several thousand tons.