Henry the Navigator (1394–1460), Portuguese prince. Henry launched the first great European voyages of exploration. He sought new lands and sources of revenue for his kingdom and dynasty and searched for eastern Christian allies against Islam.Click to see full answer. Beside this, why did Henry the Navigator explore?Prince Henry the Navigator. Henry was responsible for the early development of Portuguese exploration and maritime trade with other continents through the systematic exploration of Western Africa, the islands of the Atlantic Ocean, and the search for new routes.Similarly, why did Prince Henry of Portugal sponsor? — He hoped to find a route around Africa. — He wanted to trade with the people of Africa. Also Know, when did Prince Henry the Navigator explore Africa? Prince Henry the Navigator Resources Donn has an excellent website that includes a section on African History. Henry the Navigator (1394 – 1460), better known was the fifth child of the Portuguese King John I and responsible for the early development of Portuguese exploration and maritime trade.What two expeditions did Prince Henry sponsor?Prince Henry of Portugal, also known as “Henry the Navigator”, sponsored two famous expeditions to Africa. One, led by _Gil Eannes_, sailed beyond _Cape Bojador_ in north western Africa. This opened up a route to the Rio de Oro and an influx of African slaves being brought back to Portugal.