Yachting Art Magazine

Aquila unveils three hybrid sailing catamarans: the 44ES, 50ES and 63ES, which will be available for delivery from 2026 for the 44ES and 50ES models, and a little later for the 63ES.

These units feature Aquila's signature aesthetic – contemporary lines, a resolutely modern look and premium design – while introducing elements specific to sailing: forward cockpit, stairs connecting the bow and main deck, bright living spaces, private cabins with en-suite bathrooms.

Each model offers enhanced privacy: private access to cabins, walk-in showers, large panoramic windows, a lounge with integrated bar, and a spacious kitchen opening onto the deck. These features are designed to make sailing not a compromise, but an experience that is as luxurious as it is serene.

Aquila: from power cats to sailboats

Founded in 2013 as Aquila Power Catamarans, the Clearwater, Florida-based shipyard quickly established itself as a specialist in innovative motor catamarans. A subsidiary of the Chinese group Sino Eagle, Aquila has built its reputation on high-performance hulls, quality composite construction, and a focus on comfort, space and leisure activities.

The brand has established itself in the powercat market with just over 200 units per year, targeting customers seeking stability, space and power. In 2025, Aquila reached a milestone: it entered the world of sailing, offering hybrid models that combine its existing know-how and extensive experience in motorisation to meet the expectations of eco-conscious sailors while maintaining refinement and performance.

Hybrid propulsion: integrated innovation

Aquila sailing yachts feature an optional hybrid system called Hybrid Ocean Drive, combining electric and diesel engines. The idea is simple but demanding: to offer silent electric propulsion for manoeuvring in port or at anchor, and diesel power when sea conditions demand more. This dual power supply is integrated into the design from the outset — not as an accessory — to ensure smooth transitions, optimal performance and reliability in all sailing scenarios.

Factory, methods and manufacturing requirements

Aquila relies on the capabilities of its Sino Eagle shipyard to offer a high level of construction:

• hulls, decks and bulkheads manufactured in one piece (full moulding),
• use of infused vinylester resin, with rigorous control of temperature and humidity conditions during construction to ensure structural consistency,
• CFD (computational fluid dynamics) and FEA (finite element analysis) applied to hull design and critical components,
• no wood in critical structural elements (stringers, bulkheads subject to heavy loads),
• internal finishing work: upholstery, metalwork (316 stainless steel), electronics, carpentry — everything is largely produced on site at the factory.

CE category A certification (unrestricted ocean crossings) is planned, positioning these models for long voyages on the high seas.

Management team: nautical expertise at the helm

Aquila brings together a group of professionals with extensive experience in sailing and shipbuilding:

• Jean Raas, CEO and Product Director, former member of the US national sailing team, with many years of experience in logistics and maritime products.
• Lex Raas, co-founder, with previous roles at major shipyards (Beneteau, Leopard Catamarans), and head of development.
• The design is supported by J&J Design, a renowned agency that has designed hundreds of boats worldwide, including sailing yachts.
• Nick Harvey, former executive at Lagoon in Europe, brings his expertise in distribution and the European market.
• Jure Zule, Alain Raas and Gareth Wood complete the team, bringing together experience in offshore sailing, competition and design.

This team, combining sailing, motorisation, technical innovation and attention to detail, intends to make the sailing range a benchmark.

Positioning and distribution

For the time being, the 44ES, 50ES and 63ES models will be marketed exclusively by The Catamaran Company in the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean. The manufacturer plans to make announcements for other regions soon.

They will be presented to the public shortly at boat shows: first with models, brochures and renderings, then with tangible units for sea trials. The Aquila 50ES and 44ES are scheduled to arrive in 2026.

The new catamarans are aimed at a specific target market: yachtsmen who want to combine sailing with comfort, those who want to sail without compromise — whether for offshore cruising, adventures at sea or prestigious moorings.

The hybrid positioning meets growing expectations: reduction of nuisances (noise, pollution), autonomy in sensitive or protected areas, and respect for the environment, without sacrificing seaworthiness, performance or the pleasure of sailing.

While the project is promising, certain challenges need to be monitored:

• The cost of developing, maintaining and operating hybrid systems (batteries, engines, technical management) remains high.
• Maintenance in remote or tropical areas poses logistical constraints.
• Finding a balance between weight, useful volume, sailing performance and hybrid power is technically complex.
• The international distribution strategy will need to be accompanied by a robust after-sales service to convince premium customers.