What did early sailors do for drinking water during long voyages at sea?

Question

Trans-atlantic trips, for example.

Answer 1

They carried barrels of water with them, it was rationed.  They also carried some alcohol, that was rationed even more, not as good as water.

They would stop at places along the way( islands ) and refill the barrels.

Answer 2

Take it with you or put out a bucket and hope it rains.

Answer 3

they had plenty of rum on board to keep em happy.

hehe. i curious to know also, what an interesting question

Answer 4

While I'm sure there was some drinking going on, I doubt it was as popular as Hollywood/pirates of the Caribbean made it out to be.  Remember that alcohol will dehydrate you, so you can't drink only alcohol for weeks at a time.  Nor can you drink the Ocean water for the same reason.

Casks.  Lots of Casks.  Casks filled with water.  If you won't be able to find it for several weeks, the only other option is to bring it with you.