From Nicaraguan tribesmen he learned of the "rich kingdoms" of the - Mayan and possibly Inca civilizations and of the "great sea" (Pacific Ocean) farther west.
However, he was unable to find a water passage to this body of water. After losing two of his four s ...
One of Columbus' companions, Diego Mendez, set out in an Indian boat to find help for the survivors.
After months he did succeed in reaching Haiti, from whence he brought help. Columbus fell seriously ill during this time and was transported back to Spain in this condition.