Columbus set sail from Palos de la Frontera, Spain, with three ships: the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa María. The crew consisted of about 90 men. The voyage began with a prayer for success and a sense of anticipation for the unknown.

The ships stopped at the Canary Islands for repairs and supplies. They departed from the Canaries on September 6, entering uncharted waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The crew became increasingly anxious as days turned into weeks without sight of land.

After weeks at sea, land was sighted by Rodrigo de Triana on the Pinta. The ships landed on an island in the Bahamas, which Columbus named San Salvador (Holy Savior). Columbus claimed the island for Spain, marking a pivotal moment in history.

Columbus explored other islands in the Caribbean, including Cuba and Hispaniola (present-day Haiti and the Dominican Republic). He encountered indigenous populations, primarily the Taíno people, whom he described in his journal. He established trade relationships, although these were often based on misunderstanding and coercion.

The Santa María ran aground off the coast of Hispaniola and was irreparably damaged. Using the ship's timbers, Columbus and his crew built a fort called La Navidad, leaving a small contingent of men behind before returning to Spain.

Columbus departed from Hispaniola with the Niña and the Pinta, carrying samples of gold, indigenous people, and exotic plants. He aimed to report his discoveries to the Spanish monarchs and prepare for a second, larger expedition.

Columbus returned to Palos de la Frontera, Spain, where he was greeted with great fanfare. He presented his findings to Ferdinand and Isabella, who were impressed by the potential for new trade routes and resources. This successful return paved the way for further exploration and colonization.