Captain Salcedo and Fr. Urdaneta Find the Return Route
Levesque, Rodrigue (1992). "Captain Salcedo and Fr. Urdaneta Find the Return Route". History of Micronesia: A Collection of Source Documents. Volume 2, Prelude to Conquest, 1561-1595. Gatineau, Quebec: Éditions Lévesque. pp. 221–246. ISBN 0-920201-02-4.
- Has attachment: File:NCP55GD9.pdf
Abstract: Recounts a series of events and navigational observations from an expedition led by Captain Salcedo and Father Urdaneta. The account describes encounters with indigenous people, including hostilities during attempts to land. Soldiers used weapons in defense and pursued the islanders into a rugged stronghold. Narrow paths and stone attacks hindered their ascent, but the Spaniards eventually reached a fortified position.
The document also details practical challenges of exploration. The expedition noted the absence of fresh water on one island, sightings of villages, and numerous indigenous proas (canoes). Sailing further, the fleet endured sudden squalls that forced rapid maneuvers to avoid grounding, anchoring at various islands while contending with adverse winds.
The logbook records estimated daily runs in leagues, navigational headings, and celestial observations, along with difficulties caused by shifting winds and currents. Geographical descriptions of islands, coastlines, and bays are included, offering guidance for navigation. The text concludes with testimony from the notary Asensio de Aguirre, affirming the accuracy of the record.
