- He was the first European explorer to discover and explore the Hudson River, which was named after him.
- His explorations helped lay the foundation for the eventual colonization of North America by the Dutch.
- He opened up trade with the Native Americans in the region, which was beneficial to both parties.
- His reports of his explorations helped create a greater awareness of the New World in Europe.
- His voyages contributed to the age of exploration and helped expand European knowledge of the world.