The Aquila 42 Coupé glides effortlessly over the long, rolling swells of the Mediterranean. It’s hard to imagine a more beautiful day: perfect weather, hardly any wind, and just the gentle swell left over from last night’s storm. We’re cruising at a comfortable 2,500 rpm, the engines humming steadily, and the Foils make the boat noticeably lighter. The log shows 21 knots; the landscape and other boats whizz past.
Aquila 42 Coupé with carbon semi-foil
Her older sister, who Aquila 46 Coupé was nominated for the European Powerboat Award last year. At the same time, we had the opportunity to test the smaller, but no less interesting, 42 Coupe. With this model, Aquila is introducing a motor catamaran in the 40-foot class. Whilst the twin-hull design, with a total beam of 4.85 metres, naturally offers plenty of surface area, what really sets it apart is what’s fitted beneath the boat. It is worth noting that, with this width, the Aquila sits at the narrower end of the power catamaran class; many competitors tend to be between six and seven metres wide.
As standard, the Coupe is fitted with the so-called Hydro-Glide system, a carbon semi-foil between the hulls. It is designed to lift the catamaran slightly out of the water whilst underway, thereby improving comfort. The test drive section of this review demonstrates just how noticeable this effect is in practice.
Nevertheless, the dimensions make it clear that we are sitting on a fully-fledged boat here. With outboard engines and an anchor, it measures 13.06 metres overall; with inboard engines, it is a few centimetres shorter (12.88 metres). The hull itself is double-stepped and designed for offshore performance.
The standard version is powered by two Mercury Verado V10 engines, each producing 400 PS, including a joystick system. Alternatively, Aquila offers two Volvo Penta D6 engines, each producing 440 PS, with DPI sterndrives. The fuel capacity is generously sized at 1,552 litres – more than, for example, the Galeon 430 EXP brings with it.
A main deck without any annoying steps
The main deck is designed as a single-level layout. The cockpit, saloon and helm station are all on the same level and are connected by a wide, three-part sliding door, two panels of which can be opened.
The aft area is functionally laid out. Centrally positioned is a convertible sun lounger with an adjustable backrest, which can be used as a forward-facing bench seat or converted into a lounging area. Beneath it is storage space for everything that belongs on board. In addition, there is seating on the port side as well as a GRP galley unit with storage space, a Corian worktop and an integrated bin. A fridge can be added here as an option. An electric barbecue is also provided; measuring 0.59 by 0.40 metres, it is large enough for the occasional BBQ.
The side access doors on the port and starboard sides are practical. They are mounted on sturdy stainless-steel fittings. There are also wraparound handrails and integrated steps leading up to the side decks. The cockpit is self-draining, features LED lighting and watertight Fusion speakers. At the stern, between the two engines, there is a retractable stainless-steel swim ladder with teak steps, along with a hot-and-cold stern shower.
At the bow, the first thing that catches the eye is the passage to the wheelhouse. Access is not only via the side decks – which, for our taste, are rather narrow – but also via a central, electrically operated carbon fibre hatch in the forward saloon area. When opened, this provides direct access to the bow lounge. There, two forward-facing sun loungers with headrests and folding armrests await guests. Cup holders, side storage compartments, LED lighting, stainless steel handrails and speakers make the foredeck a favourite spot whilst at anchor. Side storage compartments with self-draining features are provided for fenders and mooring lines. Access to the anchor, chain and electric windlass, meanwhile, is centrally located.
The saloon and helm station make the most of the catamaran’s width
The saloon clearly benefits from the catamaran’s width. Large windows made of safety glass provide an almost panoramic view of the outside and make the spacious room bright and inviting. On the port side is an L-shaped seating area with a fixed table that can be lowered manually and converted into an additional berth using insert cushions. The galley, featuring a Corian worktop, is integrated into the saloon. It features a stainless-steel sink, storage space, drawers, a microwave and a 130-litre fridge-freezer. There are also power sockets, handrails beneath the worktop and a storage compartment in the floor.
In terms of materials, Aquila opts for veneered furniture surfaces with solid wood trims, upholstered ceiling panels and subtle LED accents. Manual blinds on the side windows provide privacy and protection from the sun. A large, electrically operated fibreglass sliding roof can be ordered as an option, as can a TV that lowers from the ceiling. The on-board electrical system is controlled via a C-Zone digital switch system; the battery system includes, amongst other things, AGM starter and service batteries, a Mastervolt inverter/charger and two 30 A shore power connections.
The helm is situated in a sheltered area of the interior, yet does not feel isolated thanks to the large windows. Two carbon-fibre helm seats with fold-down seat cushions form the driver’s workstation. Adjacent to this is a forward-facing lounge area, allowing a passenger to sit facing the direction of travel whilst the boat is in motion. The dashboard is finished in black acrylic. The steering wheel, throttle and joystick are ergonomically positioned, and there are also USB and USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, cup holders, footrests, a compass and a manually operated side window.
Two cabins of almost equal standard
Below deck: Each hull contains a cabin with an en-suite bathroom. The owner’s cabin is on the port side, whilst the VIP cabin is in the starboard hull. Both cabins feature large hull windows, storage space in the form of cupboards and drawers, reading lights, USB sockets and memory foam mattresses. The sleeping areas are identical in size at 194 by 153 centimetres. There isn’t really a traditional hierarchy on board between a small guest cabin and a large owner’s suite; rather, there are two almost equally spacious sleeping areas. The only thing that stands out is the slightly larger bathroom on the port side. Anyone who needs more space to get changed would be better off occupying the opposite side and making do with the slightly smaller bathroom. Both hulls therefore have their merits.
In terms of build quality, the Aquila performs well. A few gaps aren’t perfect, and the sealant joints in one or two places could have been neater, but the majority are convincingly executed. On a school grading scale, we’d give the boat a ‘B-’ in this respect. Technically, the 42 Coupe is well equipped for longer stays. For safety, six automatic bilge pumps and a fire-extinguishing system are fitted in the engine room of the diesel version – exemplary! Access to the technical systems and engines is via large hatches in the cockpit.
Having taken a thorough look at everything, it’s time for a test run. We cast off from the jetty using the port engine and leave the marina with the aid of the second engine. As mentioned at the start, there is an inboard and an outboard version. The former is an option that costs an additional 100,000 euros. The clear advantages are the extra deck space and the type of fuel – whether the extra cost will pay for itself in the long run, however, remains to be seen.
Test ride: You can really feel the foil from 14 knots onwards
As we leave the harbour entrance, we pick up speed. As the foils only become noticeable above 14 knots, everything still feels familiar at first: nothing creaks, nothing wobbles, nothing vibrates. We push the levers further forward and feel the boat leave the wake of the vessel ahead and settle onto its own wake. The speed shoots up; at 2,500 revolutions per minute, the log shows 21.1 knots. This speed is also the most economical range for planing.
We begin with small steering manoeuvres and cut ever-tighter circles. The boat doesn’t put on any antics and reliably follows the helmsman. It’s only when the waves get higher and we reach around 40 knots that things feel a bit unusual: the foil then provides so much lift that it literally treats higher waves like a ski jump and lifts off slightly. The impact on landing is harder than with a monohull due to the two hulls – yet even then, everything remains calm; nothing creaks or warps. Back in the harbour, the widely spaced engines help with mooring. Even for catamaran beginners, this shouldn’t pose a problem with a bit of practice.
BOOTE review of the Aquila 42 Coupe
The Aquila 42 Coupe’s greatest strength is its combination of space, speed and comfort. It offers the living space of a considerably larger boat, whilst reaching speeds of around 40 knots and utilising the foil to optimise fuel efficiency and ride comfort. The interior design is harmonious and welcoming. A superb catamaran with innovative features and modern technology.
Design and Concept
Plenty of space
Shallow draught for lovely bays
Running deck too narrow
Driving and steering
Good handling even in choppy seas
Hydro-Glide system
Housing and build quality
Two full-size cabins
Clearances in interior fit-out
Equipment and Technology
High-quality electrical components fitted
One earth connection on each side
The Aquila 42 Coupé in detail
Technical specifications of the Aquila 42 Coupé
- CE design category: B / 12
- Total length: 13.06 m
- Width: 4.85 m
- Draught: 0.98 m
- Clearance height: 3.13 m
- Weight: 8,500 kg
- Standard engine: Outboard motor with 400 PS
- Optional motorisation: Inboard engine with 440 PS
- Fuel tank: 1,552 litres
- Water tank: 200 litres
- Waste tank: 160 litres
- Hot water: 40 l
- Batteries: 400 Ah
- Berths: 2 + 2
- Kilograms per PS: 10.62
Engine Specifications
- Manufacturer: Volvo Penta
- Type: D6-440
- Quantity: 2
- Performance: 440 PS
- Full-load speed: 3,700 rpm
- Cylinder: 6, row
- Engine capacity: 5,500 cm³
- Fuel: Diesel
Measurement results
| Speed rpm | Speed kn | Speed (km/h) | Consumption (l/h) | Range (sm) | Range (km) | Sound level (dB(A)) |
| 600 | 3.3 | 6.1 | 3.7 | 1,177 | 2,179 | 65 |
| 1,000 | 5.9 | 10.9 | 11.0 | 708 | 1,310 | 66 |
| 1500 | 8.0 | 14.8 | 28.1 | 376 | 696 | 70 |
| 2000 | 11.0 | 20.4 | 65.0 | 223 | 413 | 74 |
| 2250 | 16.6 | 30.7 | 72.2 | 303 | 562 | 76 |
| 2,500 | 21.1 | 39.1 | 83.5 | 333 | 617 | 80 |
| 2750* | 29.0 | 53.7 | 90.0 | 425 | 787 | 78 |
| 3,000 | 31.0 | 57.4 | 108.3 | 378 | 699 | 78 |
| 3250 | 35.5 | 65.7 | 135.0 | 347 | 642 | 79 |
| 3550 | 40.0 | 74.1 | 168.0 | 314 | 582 | 82 |
* This is the most economical range during a steady cruise. Measured during our test with five people on board, light swell and an eight-knot wind. 48 per cent diesel in the tank, 21 per cent water.
Bed dimensions
- Port side: 1.94 x 1.53 m
- Starboard: 1.94 x 1.53 m
Running deck
- Side deck: 0.10 m
- Decking: EVA
Sound pressure
At a cruising speed of 1,000 revolutions per minute and a speed of 5.9 knots, the boat is quieter than average. A mere 66 decibels were measured at the helm.
Standard equipment
Anchor line and chain · Stainless steel anchor · Electric toilets · Mercury Verado V10 400 HP · Stainless steel swim ladder · Joystick control · Active Trim · Carbon fibre foils · 1,000-watt electric anchor winch · Upholstery in Quartz
Construction method
The hull is constructed using vinyl ester infusion. According to the shipyard, the deck, bulkheads and reinforcements are also built using this method. The shipyard is based in Shanghai.
Manoeuvring aids
As an option, you can choose either a bow thruster with or without joystick integration. The boat is supplied as standard without this extra.
Foils
Thanks to Aquila Hydro Glide technology, the boat is fitted with foils. In semi-foiling mode, the boat is lifted slightly out of the water. From 14 knots onwards, the skipper at the helm can feel the difference.
Heat option
Anyone wishing to operate the boat in the Arctic can order the ‘Heat’ option. It is designed to enable the boat to operate even at water temperatures between −10 and 5 degrees Celsius and protects the sensitive technical systems from the effects of the cold.
Prices and shipyard
- from €913,505
- Surcharge for comfort features: Automatic trim system included; electric anchor winch included; bow thruster included; cockpit flooring included; soft top €5,536; VHF radio included; autopilot included; chart plotter included; battery charger included; shore power connection included; 230-volt socket included; heating included; pressurised water system included; hot water boiler included; shower and toilet compartment included; outdoor shower included.
- Special offer price: €919,041
Sales of test boats
Shipyard
Alternatives on the market
Leopard 40 PC
The Leopard 40 PC It is slightly smaller than the Aquila 42, but is designed more for longer voyages. Leopard explicitly markets it as a compact power catamaran for coastal cruising.
Makai 37
The Makai 37 Although it is around two metres shorter, its width is almost the same. Furthermore, the design is very similar. The Makai also offers the option of a foil system.
YOT 41
The most striking feature of the YOT 41 is its open and versatile deck layout. The side terraces can be extended electrically, increasing the usable space by the water.
Book recommendations
Harbour manoeuvres step by step – with a motorboat This ties in with the question of how to manoeuvre a motorboat in the harbour. The book illustrates docking and undocking manoeuvres from a bird’s-eye view and explains the procedures for different types of propulsion and berths.
Handbook for Motorboat Operators covers, amongst other things, hull shapes, engine technology, navigation and safety on board. Colour illustrations also explain practical manoeuvres step by step.
Are foils the next logical step for fast motor catamarans, or does the technology become unnecessarily complex at high speeds? Let us know what you think in the comments.
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology