Extraordinary length of day was observed (Martyr, Gomara, Galvano).
A passage was being sought through the new land to Cathay (Ramusio α and β. The other accounts are not explicit on this point.
Points of difference:—
Highest north latitude attained: 58°, ‘he himself says much more’ (Gomara); 56° (Ramusio α); 67½° (Ramusio β); 60° (Galvano).
Lowest south latitude attained: ‘latitude of Gibraltar’, 36° (Martyr); 38° (Gomara); latitude of ‘Florida’—say 25–35° (Ramusio α); 38°, ‘others say 25°’ (Galvano).
The ships were fitted out at Cabot’s own charges (Martyr); ships fitted out at the king’s charges (Ramusio α and β, Galvano). Gomara uncertain.
A north-west passage was discovered (Ramusio β); further progress north was impossible (Gomara, Ramusio α, Galvano).
Date of voyage: 1498 (Ribault); 1496 (Galvano); 1496 (Ramusio α).
Facts inconsistent with what is known with certainty of John Cabot’s voyages:—
Sebastian Cabot was in command; two ships were employed; the voyage was into Arctic seas primarily, and only turned southwards when further progress north was impossible.