Aquila 46 Yacht: is this 46-foot ocean-going catamaran suitable for cruising?

At the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025, Aquila will present its new 46-foot motor catamaran. Heralded as a model certified for blue water cruising, this 14.36-meter model boasts an optimized deck layout and ambitious technical options. It's sure to attract the interest of yachtsmen and charter professionals alike.

The arrival of the Aquila 46 Yacht at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2025 marks a significant milestone in the development of the Sino-American manufacturer's range. Designed to offer a compromise between on-board comfort, nautical performance and layout versatility, this motor catamaran, 14.36 m long and 7.10 m wide, is aimed at cruising and charter customers.

A 46-footer designed for cruising

With its CE Category A (ocean) certification for 12 persons, the Aquila 46 Yacht is positioned as a true cruising tool. This label guarantees a structural design capable of withstanding sea conditions in excess of force 8 and swells of over 4 meters. This model is therefore ideal for long crossings or for safe cruising in remote areas.

Construction is based on vinylester-infused laminates, with reinforcements and structural bulkheads also in vinylester, excluding plywood below the waterline. The shipyard also features "detachable" bulbous bows, a feature often reserved for larger units.

Three interior configurations for different uses

The model features a modular layout: 3, 4 or 5 cabins, with the same number of bathrooms. The 3-cabin version offers a vast, full-width owner's area. The 4-cabin option can be converted to an "owner's" configuration. As for the 5-cabin version, it is clearly aimed at rental operators, with maximum capacity.

The side cabins all feature queen-size beds, soft-flush toilets and separate shower cubicles. The joinery, though standard, is finished in a manner consistent with units in this size range.

Volvo or Yanmar propulsion: strategic choices

The Aquila 46 Yacht can be fitted with a choice of 2 Volvo Penta D4-320, D6-480 or 2 Yanmar 550 hp engines. The model retains a shaft drive with tunnels to reduce draught and optimize performance.

Access to the mechanics is carefully designed, with main and secondary covers for daily checks. Insulation is provided by fire-retardant polyurethane foam covered with polyester film. The steering system is electric.

A deck layout focused on comfort and fluid circulation

The model features direct access from the flybridge to the bow, allowing rapid circulation between manoeuvring and living areas. Other highlights include a fiberglass hardtop with ventilation portholes and multiple stainless steel handrails.

The fixed aft platform facilitates disembarkation and bathing. The cockpit is equipped with safety doors and a fixed table for six guests. A version with an interior cockpit is available as an option.

A range that's moving upmarket at Aquila

The Sino Eagle shipyard, which produces the Aquila range, continues its expansion into the offshore motor yacht segment. This 46-footer fills the gap between the 42- and 50-foot models. The launch at Cannes 2025 also includes coupé versions with inboard motorization.

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