What improved sea travel in the 1400s?

In the 1400s, several advancements significantly improved sea travel, including the development of the caravel, a small, agile ship that could sail closer to the wind. The introduction of the magnetic compass and more accurate maps, such as portolan charts, enhanced navigation. Additionally, advancements in shipbuilding techniques and the use of lateen sails allowed for better maneuverability and speed, facilitating longer voyages and the exploration of new trade routes. These innovations collectively set the stage for the Age of Exploration.