A route to where? There were many navigators during the past millennium seeking new routes to many places.
Ferdinand Magellan
He wanted to find a shorter sea route to Asia.
Carrying cargo by ship was faster, easier, cheaper and less dangerous than carrying it by land.
They wanted to find a faster, less expansive, route.
They wanted to find a sea route to Asia, since the Silk Road was becoming very dangerous.
Pedro Alvares Cabral
he wanted to find a sea water route to India for trading.
Prince Henry used a scientific way of determining the ships sailing, direction, and the location.
They wanted to trade with Asia; riches to bring back home:)
to find a sea route to Asia
To get to Asia so they can earn silk, and then sell it to get rich.
Vasco de Gama.