Who was the first explorer to sail up the Atlantic coast?

The first explorer to sail up the Atlantic coast of North America was Giovanni da Verrazzano, an Italian explorer in the service of France. He made his voyage in 1524, mapping parts of the coast from Florida to New Brunswick. Verrazzano is particularly known for his exploration of what is now New York Harbor and the surrounding areas. His journey was significant in expanding European knowledge of the North American coastline.