Arriving this September, Aquila Power Catamarans’ newest launch—the Aquila 46 Yacht—brings big-boat thinking to a more compact platform. Slated to debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025, followed by a North American reveal at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October, the 46 Yacht carries forward Aquila’s “Explorer” design DNA and delivers a bold mix of performance, luxury and versatility. For Kiwi boaties looking for serious offshore capability without the footprint of a superyacht, this latest addition to the Aquila fleet promises to be a compelling option.
This new model follows in the wake of the larger Aquila 50 Yacht, applying the same design language and performance philosophy to a 46-foot layout that’s better suited to couples or smaller groups. With a beam of 23’3”, the 46 boasts a wide-bodied feel that offers generous internal volume and stability, even in challenging seas. In fact, its CE Category A ocean certification confirms its credentials for confident open-water exploration.
Jean Raas, Aquila USA’s Chief Product Officer & CEO, sums up the approach:
“The Aquila 46 Yacht represents our commitment to bringing larger yacht innovation to a more accessible platform. This yacht delivers the spaciousness, capability, and luxury our customers expect from Aquila, while maintaining the intimate scale that makes it perfect for couples or smaller groups seeking premium experiences on the water.”
Open interiors, ocean view
At the heart of the 46 Yacht is its airy, open-concept interior. Panoramic windows draw natural light into the main saloon, while offering near-360° views. The saloon connects directly to a full-sized galley with household-scale refrigeration, induction cooktop, and plenty of bench and storage space. Whether you’re prepping a meal at anchor or sharing drinks at the dock, the space is designed for effortless entertaining.
A wide rear window and sliding glass doors allow the salon to open fully to the aft cockpit, creating a fluid indoor-outdoor space. For all-weather cruising, an optional interior helm station can be added, letting owners helm from inside the saloon during less-than-perfect conditions.
Smart cabin flexibility
Accommodation is equally customisable. Buyers can choose between three-, four-, or five-cabin configurations depending on their cruising plans. The standout is the full-beam master cabin, which offers a king-size bed, expansive storage, en-suite bathroom with a separate shower, and wide windows that flood the space with light and ocean views.
For those leaning toward charter opportunities, the five-cabin layout maximises guest capacity. Alternatively, Aquila’s clever modular design means the four-cabin layout can be converted back to a three-cabin owners’ version should plans change.
Alain Raas, Global Brand Director, highlights this adaptive thinking:
“From the expansive beam that creates remarkable interior volume to the flexible cabin configurations that adapt to different cruising styles, every element has been designed to enhance the owner’s experience on the water.”
Outdoor spaces that shine
Topside, the 46 Yacht continues to impress. The expansive flybridge offers unobstructed views and direct access to the forward bow—a feature that enhances both functionality and sociability. Lounge zones and integrated social spaces throughout the deck provide plenty of options for relaxing or hosting guests.
From bow to stern, the vessel has been designed with the needs of modern boaters in mind—offering shelter from the elements, connection to the sea, and ample room to move, recline, or entertain.
Next-gen tech for performance and efficiency
Underpinning the lifestyle features is a well-considered engineering package. The Aquila 46 is available with advanced options including the proprietary Hydro Glide® Foil System, which improves range and fuel efficiency by reducing hull drag. Owners also benefit from standard C-Zone digital switching, offering seamless control of onboard systems, and optional lithium battery upgrades for greater energy autonomy.
For New Zealand buyers, Aquila Power Catamarans are available through local dealers including Orakei Marine. The brand already has a strong presence here, known for delivering catamarans that handle New Zealand’s variable conditions with ease, while offering luxury fit-outs and smart use of space.
Aquila catamarans are renowned for their:
- Stability and performance, especially in coastal and offshore conditions;
- Versatile layouts tailored for cruising or entertaining;
- Modern amenities including efficient galleys and top-spec navigation systems;
- Entertainment-ready design, with large flybridges, open cockpits, and social spaces front to back.
With the launch of the 46 Yacht, Aquila strengthens its reputation as a builder that listens to modern owners—delivering boats that are as practical as they are stylish, with the robustness required for extended cruising.
For Kiwis looking to step into a capable power cat that brings serious cruising credentials without stepping into the 50-foot-plus category, the Aquila 46 Yacht is definitely one to watch. Its arrival in September 2025 will mark an exciting new chapter in the brand’s evolution—and might just redefine the sweet spot for offshore-capable luxury.
