What country had the most powerful navy in the 16th century?

In the 16th century, Spain possessed the most powerful navy, largely due to its extensive empire and resources amassed from the Americas. The Spanish Armada, which included a formidable fleet, was a symbol of Spanish maritime dominance during this period. However, it faced significant challenges, particularly during the failed invasion of England in 1588, which marked a turning point in naval power dynamics in Europe. Following this, England and other nations began to rise in naval strength.