Why the Europeans sailed to other continents?

They didn't sail for other continents, but found them. The maps they had didn't show North America and they were looking for a water route to Asia for trade. There is also a strong ocean currents that is between Europe and North America and once a ship got into that current it would carry the ship to North America. As the explorers found North America they began to look for ways across it, gold and other riches and to claim lands for the crown. They brought a great deal back to Europe from their experience. New foods were introduced and other things. All the way up to the 1800's people were still looking for a water route across the continent.