- Claim territories for England: Drake was tasked with exploring new territories and claiming them for England, expanding the British Empire.
- Find a Northwest Passage: He was also commissioned to search for a Northwest Passage, a sea route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans north of Canada. This route was believed to be a shorter and faster way to reach Asia from Europe.
- Naval warfare against the Spanish: Drake's voyages were driven by geopolitical conflicts between England and Spain. He engaged in privateering and military campaigns against Spanish ships and settlements, weakening Spain's naval power and control over trade routes.
- Economic gains: Drake's expeditions often resulted in significant economic rewards. He captured valuable cargoes, seized treasure ships, and brought back goods from distant lands for trade.
- Scientific knowledge and exploration: Drake's voyages contributed to geographical knowledge, charting new territories and documenting observations of the natural world. His crew recorded information about flora, fauna, and indigenous peoples encountered during their journeys.