The first Aquila from VPLP
At the Cannes 2023 boat show, we were able to discover the new Aquila 42. This catamaran from Aquila Catamarans, the result of a merger between Chinese builder Sino-Eagle and Marine Max, the leading American distributor of pleasure boats, is part of the company's drive to better penetrate the European market, while its models are already well established in the English-speaking world, with over 700 boats sold since 2012. Yvan Eymieu, in charge of the brand's worldwide distribution, emphasizes: "We've always been keen to work with different architects for different projects. This is the 1st collaboration with VPLP, which allows us to bring different answers to arrive in Europe."
Preserving the Aquila Catamarans DNA
In its specifications, VPLP has nonetheless retained key features of the Aquila range, such as front access to the fly, or the large central helm station on the fly. Construction in infused vinylester composite guarantees high quality, and finishes are of a high standard.
Powercat specialist Aquila Catamarans has been working on the motorization and appendages for several years now. Offered with 2x230 hp or 2x300 hp from Volvo, the catamaran has a range of 800 miles at 7 knots. Cruising at 16.5 knots with 2x300 hp, Aquila boasts a fuel consumption of 64 l/h, and a top speed of 25 knots. As with the 36-footer, half of which is equipped with a foil, Aquila Catamarans will offer a foil version of the 42-footer to reduce fuel consumption.
A rear cockpit 100% dedicated to relaxation
Access to the Aquila is via one of the two wide aft skirts, while the central platform accommodates the tender. The dinghy is handled by sturdy telescopic stainless steel davits integrated into the fly. Sturdy handrails ensure easy boarding.
In the center of the aft cockpit, sheltered by the fly, you'll find a large, partially folding table and a long central bench seat. Opposite, the bar, present on all Aquila cruising catamarans, allows exchanges between inside and outside, and enables the cook to be in contact with the crew.
A large fly
The forward sundeck is accessed via the gangways, equipped with sturdy handrails. This fully rigid deck offers two large sunbathing areas, the backs of which can be folded up to create a chaise longue. They frame the front access to the flybridge.
On the fly, there's an imposing central helm station, with a two-position double seat. In the back, a block houses a fully-equipped outdoor galley. Around the fly are bench seats and a chaise longue, while access to the aft cockpit is via a staircase.
American-style kitchens and comfortable cabins
As you enter the living area, you'll find a large American-style fridge to starboard and a beautiful U-shaped galley to port.
A raised saloon, also U-shaped, on starboard, lets you enjoy the panoramic view. To port, the meridienne can be replaced by an optional interior helm station.
To reach the cabins, you can either go down into the port hull to reach the owner's cabin, or into the starboard hull for the guest cabin. Each cabin has its own bathroom, and the guest cabin has an office area.
A third cabin is located forward under the cockpit, with its bathroom forward of the starboard hull.
Depending on customer requirements, the Aquila 42 can be fitted with just 2 cabins, by converting the forward cabin and bathroom into a storage area, 3 cabins like the version we visited, or 4 cabins for possible rental fleets.
The Aquila 42 has a 2023 base price of ?856,000 ex-VAT, while the version on display was priced at ?970,000 ex-VAT.
