Aquila 50 Yacht Review (2025 Edition) by NautiStyles

On Deck

The Aquila 50 makes excellent use of its wide multihull footprint, offering a layout that balances function and flexibility. A hydraulic tender platform sits at the aft, dropping just above the sponson tops to act as both a launch system and an entertainment deck. An overhead davit crane assists with handling the tender. The light-colored deck surface stays cool underfoot, even in direct sun.

Both port and starboard access points are fitted with solid swim ladders, known for their practical, low-profile design that neatly tucks away on a track system. Wide side decks and thoughtful detailing like built-in shore power leads and freshwater deck wash connections reflect charter feedback and owner input carried over from previous Aquila models. The protective grey exterior paneling gives the yacht a more polished, yachty appearance.

Up front, the reworked bow access replaces Aquila’s traditional centerline walkway with a clever side passage that’s two steps down and leads directly forward without interrupting the yacht’s lines. The foredeck is packed with storage, including compartments deep enough for chairs and fenders, alongside convertible sunpads and reverse seating. There's also an anchor locker with an easily accessible windlass, bridle lines, deck wash system, and even a camera linked to the yacht’s auto-docking system.

The flybridge spans nearly the full beam and includes a wet bar, Kenyon grill, large sink, fridge, and ice maker. There’s ample seating for 15, with retractable awnings for shade and dedicated spaces for alfresco dining. Clever features like convertible tables with grab rails and wine bottle holders, plus the potential to retrofit a dishwasher, make this flybridge feel like an outdoor kitchen and social hub. Layout cushions forward add another spot for lounging or sundowners, and there’s extra storage tucked throughout.

The aft galley is smartly zoned, with the cooking area and refrigeration units separated across either side. A bar setup opens directly onto the cockpit via a massive manual window, creating a fluid indoor-outdoor space. The galley includes a microwave or optional dishwasher, four-burner induction cooktop, large sink with insert, dual trash bins, and extensive drawer and cupboard storage. A tall fridge-freezer with a separate ice maker completes the setup.

Moving forward, the saloon is bright and open, aided by the 7.9m (26ft) beam. A large U-shaped dining settee seats up to eight comfortably, and the dining table can be lowered to create an additional berth. The table pivots to ease movement and includes folding legs for quick adjustment. Storage is found under the seating and throughout the space, with a mounted TV and optional lower helm station to starboard. If selected, the lower helm replaces the forward settee, trading lounge space for a more sheltered control station ideal for night passages or solo operation.

Natural ventilation is another strength. Forward-opening windows on both sides bring fresh air into the saloon, aided by the large aft window and open bar area. Behind the galley, a technical space houses the C-Zone power management system, VHF radio, breaker panels, generator control, and the optional lithium-ion battery system.

Owner's Cabin

The full-beam owner’s suite is located forward and stands out for its entirely flat layout. There are no steps or level changes from the sleeping area to the bathroom, an unusual and welcome design in a catamaran of this size. The king-sized bed sits low and central, surrounded by full-height windows that flood the space with light. Storage is integrated into the side cabinetry and nightstands, while a large sofa on the starboard side can double as a child’s bed or be swapped for a desk.

A walk-in wardrobe with his-and-hers sides adds serious storage potential. The open-plan en suite features a large dual-sink vanity, frosted glass panels to maintain privacy without blocking light, a separate head compartment, and a full-size shower with overhead rain head and an opening porthole. The overall effect is more like a superyacht than a typical 50-footer.

Guest Accommodation

The guest accommodation is split between the two hulls, each accessed privately. On the port side is a queen-sized guest cabin with excellent ceiling height, smart storage throughout, deep drawers, and nightstand compartments. A ceiling-mounted TV and a soundbar are built in, with ambient lighting and large windows enhancing the space. The en suite includes a proper one-person shower, opening porthole, sink with mirrored storage, and cabinetry for towels and toiletries.

To starboard, the VIP cabin mirrors this high-spec finish with a slightly different layout. The bed is positioned lower, and the ceiling height is even more dramatic. There's a built-in desk or vanity with storage for make-up or work essentials, more drawer space than expected, and another mounted TV with soundbar. The en suite bathroom is notably spacious, with a large shower that could easily fit two people. The clever layout gives this cabin the feel of a second master.

Crew Accommodation

There is no dedicated crew cabin on this model, but the utility room in the port hull could potentially be adapted to accommodate crew in a pinch. In the standard three-cabin layout, that portside aft space becomes a fully kitted laundry and utility area, featuring a separate washer and dryer, countertop, wine cooler, and extensive storage. For owners running the yacht themselves or with minimal crew, it serves well as a workshop or housekeeping zone.

Each hull contains its own engine room, entered via hatches in the cockpit. The twin Volvo Penta D6 480hp engines sit on shaft drives, and there’s clear access all around the blocks. Dripless shaft seals, gearboxes, exhaust systems, and the hydraulic steering components are all neatly laid out, with enough space to work safely and comfortably.

The setup includes fire suppression systems, separate fuel tanks, water heater, and dedicated battery boxes for both the generator and engines. A Kohler generator is installed, and space has been considered for long-term servicing needs. The layout also supports future upgrades such as carbon foils for lift or expanded lithium-ion storage.

On the water, the Aquila 50 cruises comfortably at 16-18 knots, with a top speed of around 22 knots. Thanks to the catamaran hull and shaft drive setup, she handles predictably across her speed range, with minimal bow rise and efficient motion.

The Aquila 50 delivers impressive volume and flexibility across its layout. There's a real sense of space in the saloon and galley, helped by the wide beam and clever features like the aft bar setup and convertible dinette. Private access to the cabins in each hull keeps things feeling separate and well thought out, with the portside utility room doubling as a proper laundry space or potential bunk cabin.

The owner's suite is the real showstopper. Full beam, step-free, and flooded with natural light, it feels genuinely upmarket for a yacht of this size. Between the walk-in wardrobe, big open shower, and sofa or desk options, it’s a standout. Add in split engine rooms with straightforward access and a cruising speed around 16–18 knots, and the Aquila 50 shapes up as a capable, user-friendly multihull with serious liveaboard appeal.