The power catamaran segment is evolving rapidly, and among the names leading this transformation is one that’s redefining the very concept of innovation: Aquila Power Catamarans. We at The International Yachting Media got an exclusive first look aboard the new Aquila 42 Coupe, in its inboard version, to find out what it really means to combine comfort, efficiency, and performance in a single multihull.
We’re in Genoa, in the heart of the Mediterranean, and sea conditions are far from ideal for a calm test: a long southeast swell puts the boat’s stability and handling to the test. Power comes from a pair of 440 hp Volvo Penta D6 engines, for a total of 880 horsepower. That’s plenty of power for a 42-footer, but perfectly matched to its hull design and, above all, to the secret that makes this boat truly unique: a central foil designed to reduce the “perceived” weight under way by up to 50%.
Aquila 42 Coupe Sea Trial
As we leave the port of Genoa, we immediately find ourselves facing a choppy sea. Nothing extreme, but enough to put any boat to the test.
We start off at idle speed, 700 rpm, making 4.5 knots with an instant fuel consumption of 0.89 gallons per hour. It’s a quiet displacement pace, but the Aquila 42 clearly isn’t built to stay there for long.
We push the throttles forward. At 12 knots, the hull starts to lift slightly and the wake stretches out — we’re already in semi-planing mode. Without much extra effort, the boat accelerates smoothly up to 18 knots, and that’s when the foil comes into play. It’s not a “flying” foil like those on racing monohulls, but a hydrodynamic blade that generates lift, lightening the hull by nearly half its weight. The result is an exceptionally smooth ride that remains fluid and quiet even in head seas. We can feel the difference: the boat glides over the water rather than cutting through it. At 20 knots, still against the waves, average fuel consumption settles around 1.06 gallons per nautical mile — an impressive figure for a boat of this size and power, proof that the foil’s efficiency and the hull volume distribution work in perfect harmony.
We accelerate again. The throttles advance and the twin Volvo D6s respond promptly. The Aquila 42 Coupe accelerates eagerly, never showing the slightest sign of strain. The instruments climb — 37 knots, then 40, topping out at 41.3 knots at full load, still against the sea. Even at these speeds, the handling remains stable and onboard comfort is never compromised. This is where we really appreciate the difference of a well-designed catamaran: the twin hulls slice through the water with minimal resistance, while the foil keeps the deck platform almost perfectly level.
We slow down to find the ideal cruising speed. At 30 knots and 2,800 rpm, the boat moves along with the sea on the port quarter, and fuel consumption drops to just 0.82 gallons per nautical mile. Bringing it down to 25 knots improves the figure even more: 0.76 gallons per mile at 2,500 rpm. Numbers like these are simply exceptional for this class of boat. The reason is clear: at these speeds, the foil operates at its peak efficiency, progressively lifting the hull and reducing the wetted surface. The result is faster, lighter, and more economical navigation, with the helm sensation of a sporty craft rather than a 42-foot catamaran.
We decide to test maneuverability. At 30 knots, full starboard: the Aquila 42 draws a circle about 30 meters in diameter. We counter-turn, full port, and the response is the same. The steering remains precise, heel is minimal, and the trim stays perfect even in tight turns. Anyone who thinks catamarans aren’t agile will change their mind after just a few minutes at the helm of this boat.
We slow down again. At 20 knots, the Aquila 42 glides smoothly over the water, almost vibration-free. The foil continues to do its job even at medium to low speeds, giving the feeling of a much larger, more stable, and solid yacht. This makes cruising easy and comfortable, even for those with little catamaran experience.
Our measurements tell a clear story. At 700 rpm, speed is 4.5 knots with a fuel consumption of 0.89 gallons per hour. At 2,500 rpm, the boat makes 25 knots while consuming 0.76 gallons per mile, and at 2,800 rpm, it reaches 30 knots with a burn of 0.82 gallons per mile. At full power, 41.3 knots, the catamaran remains impeccably composed. These figures point to a single truth: efficiency here isn’t just a concept — it’s a tangible reality. And with a total of 880 horsepower, achieving roughly 0.79 gallons per mile at 25 knots is nothing short of remarkable.
Aquila 42 Coupe – Test Data
RPM | Speed in kn | Consumption (gal/h) | Consumption (gal/nm) |
700 (MIN) | 4.5 | 0.89 | 0.2 |
1,000 | 7.9 | 2.5 | 0.32 |
1,500 | 13.6 | 8.98 | 0.66 |
2,000 | 19.3 | 19.88 | 1.03 |
2,500 | 25.0 | 19.15 | 0.76 |
3,000 | 32.5 | 29.19 | 0.49 |
3,500 | 38.8 | 38.94 | 1 |
3,700 (MAX) | 41.3 | 43.94 | 1.06 |
The boat in detail
The Aquila 42 Coupe measures 12.64 meters in length and 6.44 meters in beam — proportions that ensure not only stability but also exceptional livability. The design stems from an international collaboration between VPLP Design, one of the world’s top catamaran design studios, and the engineering team at Aquila Power Catamarans. The result is a boat that combines modern lines, clean surfaces, and true functionality.
As soon as you step aboard from the aft platform, the sense of space is striking. The cockpit is huge — one of the defining features of multihulls. The owner can choose from different layouts: the test boat featured two large sunpads, but there’s also an option for a U-shaped sofa with a central table for outdoor dining or sunset drinks. To port, the cockpit hosts a barbecue and a refrigerator, perfectly integrated and easy to access.
Forward, the helm station takes center stage. Two ergonomic seats offer perfect control, while the side chaise longue becomes one of the most coveted spots during navigation. Behind the panoramic windshield, visibility is excellent in every direction, and the instrumentation is modern and intuitive. On deck, the bow area perfectly reflects the American style that defines the Aquila range: four forward-facing seats that can be converted into additional sunbeds, offering both safety and comfort while cruising.
Below deck, the interior spaces are surprisingly generous for this category. A large air-conditioned dinette, with a foldable table that can seat up to eight people, welcomes guests in a bright and airy atmosphere. The galley, to port, is arranged like that of a small yacht: full-height refrigerator, microwave, generous countertop space, and plenty of storage — ideal for longer cruises. Each hull houses a double cabin with a queen-size bed, private bathroom, and a large separate shower. Privacy is complete, thanks to the natural separation of the two hulls. The quality of finishes and materials is high, with light surfaces, satin-finish woods, and stainless-steel accents that convey a sense of solidity and modern elegance.
Aquila 42 Coupe – Technical Specs
LOA (outboard) | 13.06 m |
LOA (inboard) | 12.88 m |
Max Beam | 4.85 m |
Height above waterline (with hardtop) | 3.13 m |
Draft (outboards raised, with foil) | 0.88 m |
Draft (outboards lowered) | 0.90 m |
Draft (sterndrive) | 0.98 m |
Dry Displacement | 8,500 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 1,552 l |
Design Category | B:12 / C:20 / D:29 |
Cabins / Bathrooms (with separate shower) | 2 / 2 |
