The noteworthy contribution to global navigation made by the Portuguese empire was the advancement of maritime exploration during the Age of Discovery. Pioneers like Prince Henry the Navigator promoted innovations in shipbuilding, navigation techniques, and the use of the caravel, enabling longer sea voyages. Their explorations along the African coast and to India opened up new trade routes and initiated the European colonial era. This era marked a significant shift in global trade dynamics, cultural exchanges, and the expansion of European influence across the world.