The newly unveiled Aquila 50 Yacht is a fresh take on the brand’s design, stepping in to replace the 48 Yacht. However, calling it just an upgraded version would be doing it a disservice. This new model boasts an innovative running surface, an upgraded master suite, an advanced tender launching system, and a multitude of thoughtful details that set it apart not only from its predecessor but also from other competitors in the market.
Positioned between Aquila’s 44 Yacht and 54 Yacht flybridge models, the 50 Yacht utilizes a wide beam design that maximizes interior space, offering a volume equivalent to larger monohulls, making it a practical choice for those seeking comfort on the water.
Stepping aboard at Lauderdale Marina shortly after its grand debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2024, one can immediately appreciate its striking explorer-style profile. This design is a refreshing departure from the more traditional, bulky appearance of many larger power cats available today.
As Nick Harvey, Aquila’s Chief Revenue Officer, remarked during the sea trial: “It’s the first boat of its kind to feature this aesthetic; typically, you only see such a look on vessels over 100 feet.”
In fact, the 50 Yacht is about 0.60 meters (or roughly two feet) taller than the 48, primarily due to the design team’s decision to incorporate a flat floor in the master suite instead of a sunken version. This unique design choice necessitated a taller hull to maintain adequate headroom. Harvey also noted, “This design enables us to create these stunning side windows.”
While this added height doesn’t compromise performance in windy conditions, it does enhance visibility from the helm station, which, for this first model, was the sole steering area.
A second helm station in the main saloon is available as an option. However, if I were in the market, I’d prefer the single helm on the flybridge. It provides ample protection and visibility, and the addition of another helm in the saloon could disrupt the well-considered feng shui of this 25.6sqm (276sqft) social space.
The saloon’s wraparound windows, which extend along both sides and across the front, infuse the area with generous natural light. The decor features a Light option with light-colored wood composite and white accents, complemented by soft neutral greys. There is also a Dark option, featuring richer woods and trims for a more dramatic aesthetic.
The aft galley is fully outfitted with an American-sized fridge, a microwave, a convection oven, and a spacious stainless steel sink that can be covered to double as a countertop. It opens seamlessly into the rear cockpit through a large door and fold-down windows.
This design creates a harmonious transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces, forming a expansive social area that extends back towards the stern. Outside, bar seating is adjacent to a counter that connects back to the galley.
Inside, the sizable U-shaped lounge with a table serves as the primary dining area, but it can also transform into a large berth for extra sleeping space with an electric mechanism. Asymmetrical stairways on both the port and starboard sides lead to the other staterooms, adding a unique flair to the overall layout.
Control panels are conveniently situated on the starboard rear side, providing access to AC and DC controls, plus a CZone control and monitoring system for various onboard functions. “The digital switching system allows you to manage lighting, pumps, and numerous systems from one screen,” Harvey explained.
Additional options include a second steering station and even dedicated quarters for the captain, although many of Aquila’s global owners tend to operate their vessels themselves. Notably, the engine room is spacious around the 480hp Volvo Penta D6 engines, which can be upgraded to the more powerful 550hp Yanmars.
Our sea trial in the Atlantic took place on a beautiful sunny day with calm seas under a meter. The 50 Yacht, being a larger catamaran, feels distinctly different underway compared to similarly sized monohulls, yet it maneuvers quite smoothly as we cruise along the Florida coast.
This model features a bulbous hull design, which greatly aids in navigating rough seas while minimizing wave impact. Moreover, there’s an optional foil system that enhances both fuel efficiency and performance. During our sea trial, the yacht clocked over 20 knots, handling corners with ease and displaying minimal rocking.
Visibility from the helm and the performance of the Raymarine electronics on the console were impressive. While we didn’t have the opportunity to test it in more turbulent conditions, it certainly performed well given the near-perfect weather.
The hardtop features solar panels, and the isinglass (transparent vinyl) can be wrapped around the expansive 361sqft (33.4sqm) upper deck during inclement weather. While setting this up in a squall might feel like a race against time, a fully glassed-in hardtop would fundamentally alter the weight distribution and entail significant costs.
This upper deck is definitely the place to be for social gatherings. Aquila has designed it with ample space, featuring a spacious lounge area with a table, as well as 2.6m (8ft 7in) sunbeds located at the rear of the catamaran. Additionally, it includes a fully equipped outdoor galley, complete with an electric Kenyon Signature Grill, induction stove, wet bar, and stainless-steel ice maker.
Another thoughtful design element is the two-step side passage leading down to the foredeck. Unlike the typical center passage found on many large cats, this side access allows for quick entry for dock handling or other purposes.
The foredeck space is designed for enjoyment, featuring double sunbeds on both sides and flip-up seats for added comfort. There are also two additional seats positioned along the outer edges, allowing guests to converse and enjoy the view from behind.
Aquila has cleverly left the lower forward section of the bow open across its full beam, providing enhanced visibility from the master suite. The spacious main suite measures 25sqm (270sqft), offering generous headroom and a flat floor that distinguishes it in its category.
To starboard, you’ll find an L-shaped lounge with an adjacent vanity and seat. Across from the king-size bed, there are two sinks and drawers, while the full head features a separate toilet and a shower with stylish teak-grate flooring. The frosted-glass door stylishly separates the bathroom from the bedroom, offering both privacy and aesthetic appeal.
Thanks to the open layout and expansive windows, the suite enjoys a refreshing sense of space, enhanced by the fact that the windows are “twice the size of others in this class, thanks to the added height of the boat,” as Harvey pointed out.
Storage is generous as well, utilizing the cat’s pontoons to accommodate not just personal belongings but also equipment, including a mattress for the saloon table tucked away below the floor. Closet space is also quite ample.
The second stateroom features VIP treatment, complete with a spacious private head and shower, ensuring guests enjoy a sense of privacy thanks to the thoughtfully designed, elongated entryway. Opposite this rooms is the third stateroom, a cozy double accommodation ideal for kids. While a four-stateroom layout is also available, doing so would minimize the space in the VIP suite.
One of the standout features of the 50 Yacht is its 14ft tender catamaran, which Aquila manufactures in China. It’s equipped with an electric crane system that smoothly lifts the boat outwards for both launching and retrieval, a distinctive selling point among its competitors.
Once the tender is launched, the deck can be lowered to be flush with the aft decks, resulting in a spacious platform that allows for easy access to the water. Harvey enthused, “The retractable winch in the flybridge is a unique feature—truly part of the 50’s DNA.”
There’s enough space in the engine compartment that could accommodate a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system when it becomes available. Currently, the options allow for upgrading standard house batteries to four lithium batteries, complete with an inverter and charger for longer anchor times running on battery power.
“Our design allows owners to order a hybrid system as it becomes available,” said Harvey. “We aimed to future-proof the yacht for sustainability as much as possible.”