[Frumious Bandersnatch]

Thor Heyerdahl showed the possibility of Mediterranean peoples sailing to south america. When the Spaniards first entered California, they reported the presence of Chinese traders - who had apparently been trading with the locals for generations. The Vikings obviously knew of the americas. Magellan didn't find the Straits of Magellan by accident.  He was following a map.

The assertion by landlubbers that ancient peoples wouldn't have the skills to navigate the oceans is laughable.  These same landlubbers are given to the view that ancient peoples were afraid to get out of sight of land.  Nothing could be farther from the truth.  Seamen know that they are far safer in blue water than they are near shore.  Most shipwrecks occur near shore.  There were many ancient peoples noted for their seamanship (Phoenicians for example).

[Mr. Mojo]

The assertion by landlubbers that ancient peoples wouldn't have the skills to navigate the oceans is laughable

Indeed it is. Landlubbers from all times and places have attempted to project their own fear of the sea onto others. As you mentioned, there's no shortage of pre-Columbus, pre-Viking cultures who had the inclination, technology, and adventurous spirit to navigate the great oceans.

[andy_card]

Thor Heyerdahl showed the possibility of Mediterranean peoples sailing to south america.

Yes, but the Egyptians had boats. The Jews didn't.