Aquila 46 Coupe

Since its creation in 2012, Aquila Power Catamarans has become the world leader in power catamarans, with four different ranges to date - from Offshore models dedicated to sport fishing to Luxury models that confidently encroach on the “traditional” yacht market, as well as the Sport series for day trips and Yacht models optimized for cruising. Since early 2025, the Coupe series has been added to the range, offering nothing less than catamaran weekenders, a fairly unique offering on the market, especially as it is being launched with two models at the same time, a 42-footer and a 46-footer.

A Resolutely Sporty Line

Aesthetically, the 46 Coupe is reminiscent of both the 36 Sport and the 47 Molokai. This family resemblance makes sense, as the architect behind the 46 is none other than Chris Peart, who also designed the 47 Molokai. The result is a fluid, sporty line with traditional but particularly sharp bows, a very long hull porthole that emphasizes the silhouette, and a stern that softens to join the large swim platform. Rather high on the bow, the nacelle extends into a sloping windshield and a low roof, while a bimini covering part of the cockpit adds an extra touch of sportiness. It’s a rather flattering design that almost gives an impression of speed even when the powercat is stationary.

To facilitate boarding and disembarking, swimming, fishing, and other water activities, the 46 Coupe features a large aft platform that spans the entire space between the outboard motors. This swim platform is also equipped with a large retractable swim ladder that stows under a cover to keep the deck clear. There is also a shower here and a crane can even be installed (as an option) to lift a Seabob or a slightly heavier object. The only regret is that there is no pulpit railing, even a removable one; however, the side passages are closed by a gate and the central passage can be closed in the same way. Finally, in case the aft deck is not accessible (if moored alongside on a finger dock or alongside another boat), the new Aquila is equipped with a side door on each side, which is another excellent idea.

Taking advantage of its generous width of almost 18 feet (5.46 m), the 46 Coupe features a very large cockpit with two back-to-back seats that can be converted into a rear bench or into a sun lounger. These seats/sunbathing areas conceal two large storage lockers, and there are also two huge floor lockers that house all the on-board systems. These two lockers also house the inboard engines (2 x 430 HP Volvo Penta D6) when you choose this version.

Although there is no large cockpit table (but nothing to stop you installing one), there is a real bar, just like on the 44 Yacht, thanks to the tilting window, which is a very pleasant spot with its three high stools. If the bimini is not large enough to keep everyone out of the sun, a flexible shade sail can be unfolded electrically. To wash the deck, a tap with a hose is installed on the port side. The last point of interest in this cockpit is a small outdoor galley with a refrigerator and grill installed on the starboard side. A high-quality Kenyon grill—it even features a lamp built into the handle!

A Modern, Functional and Welcoming Layout

A sliding door leads from the cockpit to the interior saloon. Here again, the impression of space is immediate. In addition to the long windows on each side, a passageway leads directly to the forward cockpit. On the port side, the galley occupies a significant amount of space and is very well equipped, perfect for boaters with a passion for cooking. Opposite the galley, an L-shaped bench seats four to five people, and a table can be set up in the center for dining facing the cockpit.

Finally, also on the port side, the helm station offers optimal visibility and three independent seats – ideal for long cruising without leaving the captain isolated.

With its simple, warm colors, the interior is both modern and cozy, making you feel immediately at home. To complete the atmosphere, LED lighting is installed throughout and can be configured directly from the dashboard or from your smartphone using the Raymarine app. The same goes for the Ocean LED underwater lights.

Moving forward, a door swings up and opens onto the bowrider. Here again, thanks to the width of the Aquila, this bowrider is exceptionally spacious. This has allowed the designers to fit three seats on the starboard side and a fourth on the port side. What’s more, these seats are extended by small benches and a folding table is available. The whole area can accommodate a central table or be converted into a sun deck. The bow also features a large anchor locker, space for the windlass, storage for fenders and a locker with a drain if you want to use it as a cooler. Finally, thanks to a fairly high freeboard, you are very well protected in this bowrider, which is a real bonus. The only downside is that access to the outside of the powercat, in the central section, is extremely difficult - Aquila is considering a solution involving a window so that fenders can at least be installed without falling into the water.

Back inside, it’s time to explore the sleeping quarters. To be honest, when the 46 Coupe was unveiled, we were surprised to hear that it only had two cabins. This choice was dictated by technical constraints, notably the desire to offer an inboard version, but also by the intended use of the catamaran. Unlike the Yacht series (42 to 54 feet), the Coupe models are primarily weekenders, meaning they are designed for day trips or weekends on board, which limits the need for cabins. With this in mind, the 46-foot model offers one cabin on each side. While both offer double berths and a full bathroom, the starboard cabin benefits from a little more space. The contrast between the white walls and darker woods creates a very cozy atmosphere. The long portholes provide plenty of light, and the equipment is quite generous, including electrical outlets, USB ports, and even wireless chargers.

A modern Powercat par excellence, the 46 Coupe incorporates a host of technologies and a fully integrated system that can be controlled from various points on board or from your smartphone. The catamaran is also equipped to accommodate solar panels and has a 10-kW Fisher Panda generator with four 230 Ah lithium batteries for energy storage.

Before moving on to the dynamic test, it is worth taking a moment to consider the seriousness of the construction. Built in China by Sino- Eagle, Aquila’s industrial partner, this catamaran benefits from very high quality standards. The powercat was built using infusion molding without wooden reinforcement to improve durability, but with PVC foam cores. The 46 Coupe also features watertight bulkheads at the bow and stern. As for the gelcoat finish, it is flawless. In terms of equipment, the Aquila 46 Coupe offers a lot, even in the standard version. However, the list of options is also very comprehensive, allowing the buyer to customize the catamaran to suit its needs

High-tech Equipment and Powerful Engines

With the Coupe series, the shipyard’s idea was to build a boat that was spacious but also more sporty than those in the Yachts series. To achieve this, the manufacturer has not cut any corners, as the new Aquila is available with 2 x 600 HP outboard motors or 2 x 430 HP inboards, enough to easily propel the 14.5-tonne/32,000-pound vessel. In addition, the 46 Coupe comes standard with the Hydro Glide Foil System, a system of foils that reduces the catamaran’s wetted surface area. Specifically, there is a first transverse foil made of carbon fiber, complemented by another small foil at the rear to accentuate the lift effect and improve stability. This benefits speed, of course, but also fuel consumption (the manufacturer claims 40% less than an equivalent boat without foils) and comfort. Finally, as if that weren’t enough, the hulls of the 46 Coupe feature two steps that also reduce the wetted surface area while improving water flow under the hull at the propellers for greater efficiency.

For our test, we had the outboard version with two Mercury V12 engines, each developing 600 HP. This powertrain is very well suited to the powercat, as the mobile lower unit allow the aft swim platform to be extended to its maximum.

Once behind the wheel, the high-tech dashboard is impressive with its two large screens, joystick, wireless charger, and air conditioning vents. However, the most impressive feature is the incredible steering wheel with paddles and a central screen that rotates with the movements of the wheel. This screen can also be configured to display whatever you want.

In terms of dynamics, the Aquila is particularly well suited to Mercury engines, which provide progressive but effective acceleration, allowing the catamaran to plane in just a few seconds without rearing up. Cruising speed, around 28 knots, is reached quickly and from there on, it’s pure pleasure. The catamaran is easy to handle and very comfortable for the rest of the crew. On the day of our test, we had a slight chop with waves between 50 cm and 1 m (1.5 to 3 ft), and it’s clear that the Aquila 46 Coupe never struggled. Better still, it passes through the waves with ease, demonstrating astonishing stability, while the foils ensure a smooth passage through the chop. The system is so effective that it is difficult to know when we are actually in “foil” mode. In fact, the Aquila behaves a bit like a luxury German sedan where comfort is paramount. Another plus point is the soundproofing, which is very effective, even when the roof is open, making sailing very pleasant. Pushing the throttle a little, we reached 35 knots, slightly below the speed advertised by the shipyard (40+ knots), but not surprising given the conditions. On a flat sea, the powercat should go much faster. In any case, the results obtained are already more than satisfactory for a 46-foot vessel equipped with two cabins and designed for family use. For even more economical use, the inboard version with 2 x 430 HP should be of interest.

Conclusion

Once again, Aquila is making its mark in the world of power catamarans with a somewhat unusual weekender that combines high-end performance, great comfort, true versatility, and even a sporty character. This is an appealing proposition, especially as the Chinese-American brand is now virtually the only one offering this kind of product. Finally, in addition to its intelligent layout, the choice of outboard or inboard engines gives it even more flexibility to suit every boater.

The very wide roof can be fitted with a series of solar panels as an option.

The choice of Mercury V12 engines and their mobile lower unit, combined with the catamaran hull, has made it possible to maximize the surface area of the aft swim platform.

The bowrider is impressively large, featuring four individual seats and additional seating, all well protected from the wind.

The Hydro Glide Foil System is a unique foiling system developed by Aquila that reduces the wetted surface area, offering numerous advantages.

A small table folds out in the bowrider, ideal for cocktails!

Next to the anchor locker, two other lockers provide storage for lines or fenders.

Two modular seats are installed in the cockpit, each concealing a generous storage space.

The Kenyon grill is a high-end product that even integrates a light inside the handle.

Inside, it’s easy to move around with few obstacles between the cockpit and the bowrider.

The bar between the cockpit and the galley is a nice addition and guarantees a friendly atmosphere on board.

A dining area is located on the starboard side, at the entrance to the nacelle, which is convenient for staying in touch with the cockpit.

The galley is almost identical to that of an apartment, with all the appliances you need to cook a good meal.

The helm station has three individual seats, which is a plus for comfort.

The dashboard is elegant, functional, and very well equipped, with two large screens. The high-tech steering wheel, with paddles, includes a configurable screen in the center.

The slightly larger owner’s cabin is located on the starboard side and has a queen-size bed with space on either side.

The owner’s head features a large enclosed shower.

Designed to accommodate inboard engines, the Aquila 46 Coupe, in this outboard version, features two huge aft lockers for technical systems and storing water toys.

The VIP cabin is far from small, but there is no space on either side of the bed.

Like the owner, guests enjoy an enclosed shower and a sink with sea view.