Aquila 47 Molokai Review (2023 Edition) by NautiStyles

On Deck

The Aquila 47 Molokai rethinks what a fishing-focused power catamaran can be, starting with a deck layout built for flexibility. As a wide-beam center console with a 14.9m (49ft) LOA and 4.4m (14ft 7in) beam, the platform offers exceptional space for both hardcore anglers and leisure seekers. There’s seating for 17 people onboard, with stadium-style helm seating - two rows of Release Marine ladder-back seats, the rear row raised by about 15.2cm (6in) for better visibility. The entire helm area is air-conditioned, supported by a lithium battery bank.

The expansive cockpit delivers over 6.5m² (70ft²) of working area, with twin 161L (42.5-gallon) pressurized livewells at the aft, and optional in-deck 189.3L (50-gallon) tanks. Additional cockpit highlights include a drop-down cutting table, integrated rod holders, rocket launchers, and jump seats tucked away beneath the aft gunwales.

Bow access is excellent thanks to the catamaran’s high tunnel clearance - 33cm (1ft 1in) at rest and over 60.9cm (2ft) underway - helping reduce slap and keep things quiet when trolling. The bow section features wraparound seating, hidden storage, and grab rails, along with a split anchor system engineered for balance, redirecting chain through a block to center weight.

Fishing practicality continues with port and starboard hull-side boarding/dive doors, side entry gates, trench drains, and a central transom walkthrough. The carbon fiber hardtop (vacuum-infused epoxy) is light but structurally stiff, factory-prepped for outriggers and towers. Twin 5.5m (18ft) carbon fiber Gemlux outriggers can be deployed or retracted easily for bridges or trailering. Underneath the hardtop, track lighting and LED deck lights can be set to any color via app or onboard controls.

There’s a premium Fusion DTS-tuned sound system throughout, with subwoofers and directional speakers placed for sandbar or underway enjoyment. Additional features include a concealed heavy-duty swim ladder, freshwater and raw water washdowns, glovebox storage with USB ports, and plenty of built-in coolers.

Unusually for a center console of this size, the Aquila 47 Molokai includes a fully enclosed, air-conditioned interior cabin accessed via sliding or pantograph doors from either side of the helm. Inside, large hull windows and overhead skylights flood the space with natural light, while maintaining privacy and sun protection with tinting and blinds. The central walkway is lined with integrated storage, drawers, and utility access, including areas for safety gear and electronics servicing.

The interior includes a forward TV, surround speakers, and wireless charging pads. There's a bathroom with a wet head arrangement: shower, sink, mirror, window, enclosed toilet area with clips for the privacy panel, and a good amount of cabinetry. A door from the deck gives this space additional function as a day head. The berth is a queen-size bed built into the tunnel space, with widened dimensions toward the head and raised overhead space thanks to the hull structure. Overhead skylights and panoramic hull-side windows make it feel bright and surprisingly open for an interior in this class. There’s overhead air conditioning, convenient lighting, and easy access to charging ports and entertainment features. The positioning provides a direct line of sight out to the water, offering a relaxed, scenic experience while lying in bed.

While this hull does not include a galley, hull number two will feature an outdoor galley option, allowing owners to cook onboard and comfortably spend a night or two. The interior finishes aim to strike a balance between practical durability and stylish comfort, echoing Aquila’s broader yacht lineup.

The Aquila 47 Molokai features a twin-stepped hull designed through extensive CFD and FEA analysis to minimize drag and increase efficiency. Owners can choose between two propulsion packages: twin Mercury V12 600hp (1,200hp total) or quad Mercury V10 400hp (1,600hp total). Paired with the quad 400s, cruise speed is a rapid 42 knots, delivering a cruising range of around 750 nautical miles from the 3,967 litre (1,048-gallon) fuel tanks. Top speeds can push beyond 60 knots.

Joystick piloting and digital throttle systems enhance close-quarters maneuvering. A C-Zone switching system manages onboard systems, with backup tactile controls and Raymarine electronics (either dual 61cm (24in) or triple 48.3cm (19in) MFDs). Electrical and mechanical systems are thoughtfully laid out in separate port and starboard lockers - plumbing lines and pumps to port, electrical connections and battery management to starboard. Triple bait pumps, both high and low speed pickups, allow adjustable flow for various setups.

The Aquila 47 Molokai is a rare hybrid: equal parts rugged sportfisher and luxury weekend cruiser. It’s built for speed and long-range performance, yet also offers proper accommodation with a queen berth, wet head, climate control, and refined interior styling. A double-stepped hull, carbon fiber hardtop, and serious fishability features place it in select company within the center console segment. The Molokai 47 hits an unusual sweet spot - practical, potent and polished.