What were the largest ships and naval battles like just before the advent of gunpowder? Who were the dominant naval forces at the time?

by BrekfastBlend
Mr_Capn_Tex

Just to Clarify, do you mean in the Mediterranean, North Sea, Alantic/Western France, English isles, Spain or just in the European/North African region in general? Or are you more curious about East Asia and the Indian Subcontinent?