Aquila Yachts, today the world leader in the production of power catamarans, unveiled its long-awaited first sailing model, the Aquila 50 Sail, at the Cannes Yachting Festival. This marks a historic step for the brand, bringing into sailing the industrial strength and expertise it has gained in the powercat sector. “Many people wonder why a powercat brand would step into sailing – explained Nick Harvey, Chief Revenue Officer of Aquila International – The answer is simple: the sailing catamaran market is much larger, and we have the technical and industrial foundation to deliver a credible and competitive product”.
After the debut of the 50 Sail, Aquila already has plans to expand its sailing range with the Aquila 44ES and Aquila 63ES, which will be unveiled at upcoming boat shows. Two complementary options: on one side, a compact and versatile cruising catamaran, and on the other, a flagship model that combines luxury, space, and autonomy for long ocean passages.
A team born from sailing
The project brings the signature of a group with deep sailing roots. Leading the way is Lex Raas, Executive Director of Aquila and a key figure in the modern history of catamarans, joined by his sons: Jean Raas, CEO of Aquila USA and former Olympic windsurfing athlete, and Alain Raas, Global Brand Director with racing and ocean crossing experience.
The design was overseen by Jure Žule, Aquila’s Chief Designer and creator of projects such as Shipman and the Swan Club 50, while the architectural work was issued from a collaboration with J&J Design, a long-standing partner of the shipyard. “We wanted to merge our sailing roots with the strength of a group that is now a leader in powercats – said Alain Raas – It’s a combination that allows us to speak the same language as owners, whether private or charter”. Equally crucial was the support of Frank Xiong, CEO of Sino Eagle Group and the driving force behind the brand’s industrial development, and Gareth Wood, Global Service Manager, who contributed his expertise in creating sophisticated and functional spaces.
Aquila 50 Sail: Architecture and Design
One of the most distinctive choices is the bow: the Aquila 50 Sail does away with the traditional trampoline in favor of an enclosed foredeck. “For us it was natural – explained Jean Raas – We have extensive experience with enclosed decks on powercats and wanted to bring that same strength to sailing. The result is a bow that turns into a real social area, safe and comfortable, with seating and sunpads offered in a way no one else does”.
The Aquila family feeling is instantly recognizable: sleek lines, a streamlined superstructure, and a glazed coachroof with gull wing windows that flood the interiors with light and height. “We wanted a boat that could be recognized from two miles away – added Alain Raas – When someone sees the new Aquila, they should immediately say: yes, that’s her”.
Layout: privacy and modularity
The interior stands out for its modularity and six independent cabin entrances, eliminating corridors and maximizing living space. Layout options range from four to six cabins, all with en suite bathrooms. The forward cabins can be set up for the crew, complete with bed and bathroom, or converted into technical or storage areas.
The dinette reflects Aquila’s DNA, featuring a bar that connects inside and out, a full-size refrigerator, a forward door leading to the front cockpit, and a dedicated nav- station.
The “secret move”: from 6 to 5 cabins
One of the most popular innovations is the option to easily convert the layout from six to five cabins, thus creating a true owner’s suite. “This is not a compromise – Harvey explained – We engineered the project to make this conversion simple and non-intrusive. With just a few moves, the owner can have a suite with dual access, a laundry area, and generous storage, completely transforming the feel of the boat”.
Aquila 50 Sail: Navigation and Performance
With a length of 14.97 meters, a beam of 7.86 meters and a displacement of about 19 tons, the Aquila 50 positions itself right in the heart of the cruising catamaran market. The sail plan is designed to deliver top-tier performance without going to extremes. “We’re not looking to build a racing catamaran – noted Jean Raas – Our goal is fast, safe, and comfortable cruising. That’s why we didn’t include daggerboards: we aim at a competitive product suited for families and fleets”.
Propulsion: hybrid or diesel
The range is offered with two distinct packages. The first units feature Torqeedo hybrid-electric propulsion, with two 50 kW motors and an integrated battery and generator system. “This isn’t some niche option – Harvey emphasized – Hybrid is an integral part of the project and will be available from the very first hulls. It’s the direction the market is heading, and we want to lead the way”.
Alongside the hybrid version, there is also a traditional configuration with two 50 hp Nanni diesel saildrives, designed mainly with charter operators in mind.
Construction: Technology and Strength
The Aquila 50 Sail is built at Sino Eagle Group’s catamaran-dedicated facility, created specifically for this purpose. Hulls are infused in climate-controlled environments, complex parts are crafted with five-axis CNC machines, and components such as stainless steel fittings and upholstery are produced in-house.
“We don’t use plywood in structural areas – explained Jean Raas – Our bulkheads and grids are composite-laminated, with unidirectional reinforcements and sacrificial keels. It’s the same philosophy that allows us to build powercats capable of running at 70 knots without structural failure. We’ve brought that same strength into our sailcats”.
Scheda tecnica – Aquila 50 Sail
| Metric | Imperial | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 14.97 m | 49′ 4″ |
| Beam | 7.86 m | 25′ 10″ |
| Draft | 1.45 m | 4′ 8″ |
| Light displacement | 19,000 kg | 41,900 lbs |
| Square top mainsail area | 92 sq m | 990 sq ft |
| Jib / Genoa area | 66 sq m | 710 sq ft |
| Code 0 / Gennaker area (optional) | 116 sq m | 1,249 sq ft |
| Sleeps (up to) | 14 | |
| Max passengers | 24 | |
| Cabins / heads | 4 / 5 / 6 | |
| Fuel tank (total) | 900 L | 238 gal |
| Water tank (total) | 900 L | 238 gal |
| Holding tank (total) | 250 L | 66 gal |
| CE Certification A (Ocean) | 12 | |
| CE Certification B (Offshore) | 14 | |
| CE Certification C (Coastal) | 20 | |
| CE Certification D (Inland) | 30 | |
| Standard Propulsion (Electric Sail Version) | 2 × Torqeedo Deep Blue i Motors / 50 kW with single 80 kW propulsion battery | |
| Standard Propulsion (Diesel Sail Version) | 2 × Nanni N4.50 (50 hp) with ZF SD12 sail drives | |
Aquila 50 Sail, the new “natural choice” in the 48/52-foot segment
Priced similarly to a 48–49 footer but offering the space and features typical of a 52, the Aquila 50 Sail positions itself as “the natural choice” in the most competitive segment of the market. The combination of an enclosed forward deck, independent cabin access, charter-to-owner conversion, and solutions derived from powercats makes the new model a strong contender.
“We offer more space and more options at a competitive price – Harvey concluded – And of course, with the strength of a brand that knows how to build sturdy and innovative multihulls”.
Aquila 44ES and Aquila 63ES
The new Aquila 44ES marks the shipyard’s entry into the mid-size sailing catamaran segment, blending contemporary lines with practical solutions for cruising. Standout features include the fixed forward cockpit, the panoramic salon with large windows, and independent cabins with private bathrooms. Designed to provide comfort and conviviality on board, the 44ES also offers the option of the Hybrid Ocean Drive propulsion system for quiet and efficient maneuvering.
The Aquila 63ES combines luxury, space, and innovation. With elegant lines and a design focused on long ocean passages (CE Category A certification), it offers generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, cabins with private entrances, and premium amenities for life at sea. The hybrid system option and construction to the highest structural standards ensure safe, eco-friendly performance.
