Manila Galleon

The Manila Galleons were Spanish trading ships that sailed annually between Manila and Acapulco carrying Asian silk and goods traded for Mexican silver, becoming legendary prizes for English privateers operating in the Pacific. Their capture by raiders such as Thomas Cavendish and Woodes Rogers yielded some of the largest single hauls in privateering history.

Quick Facts

Ship ClassTreasure Ship
Era Used1565-1815
Typical Crew~200
Guns / Cannons30-40
Speed / HandlingSlow, heavily laden
Notable UseTargeted by Thomas Cavendish (1587) and Woodes Rogers (1709)

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