Having a brief look at civilization history, I find that Europeans have a significant dominance over other regions when it comes to sailing. This becomes more obvious after the 15th century when Europeans started to explore the "new world" and to colonize regions in Africa, Asia, America etc. Among other factors, their navy technology has a major role here.

I have thought about this, and I wonder how Europeans developed their sailing skills so much compared to other civilizations in the world? 

**Example**

Almost always, at least since the beginning of the common era as far as I know, China had had a higher population than Europe. If there were a lack of resources because of the overpopulation, and this would then lead to the need for new territories, China should have been the first region interested in exploring (correct me if I'm wrong). As Europeans did, they also had access to the open sea. 

In my perspective, Chinese and Europeans were in the same conditions:

* Wide access to the ocean.
* Enough human resources (China more).

In these circumstances, China should have been more favored to sail and to colonize other regions (ex. India, southeastern Asia etc.).

So, what is that particular reason that I'm probably missing, that made Europeans more capable in sailing?