What were the advantages of travel by water?

There have been many advantages of travel by water over the centuries. Some of the key advantages include:

- Efficiency: Water transport is one of the most efficient modes of transportation in terms of energy consumption per tonne-kilometer. This is because ships can move large loads very efficiently through the water, with minimal resistance.

- Capacity: Ships can carry much larger loads than other modes of transport, making them ideal for transporting bulk goods such as grain, coal, and oil.

- Accessibility: Water transport can reach many places that are inaccessible by land, making it an essential mode of transport for remote communities.

- Low environmental impact: Water transport produces relatively low levels of emissions and pollution compared to other modes of transport, making it a relatively environmentally friendly option.

- Safety: Water transport is generally considered to be a safe mode of travel, with few accidents occurring compared to other modes of transport.

Of course, there are also some disadvantages to water transport, such as the fact that it can be slower than other modes of transport and can be affected by weather conditions. However, the advantages of water transport outweigh the disadvantages, making it an essential mode of transport for many people around the world.