Aquila leans into sailing roots to deliver new sailing catamarans with hybrid propulsion, distinctive forward cockpits, and uncompromising manufacturing.
CLEARWATER, FLORIDA – September 12, 2025 – Aquila, the premier manufacturer of power catamarans, today announced its expansion into the sailing catamaran market with the introduction of three new models: the Aquila 44ES, 50ES, and 63ES sailing catamarans. “This expansion represents our next phase as a global boat manufacturer,” said Frank Xiong, chief executive officer of Sino Eagle Group who manufactures the Aquila portfolio. “We've proven ourselves in power catamarans, and now we're leveraging the deep sailing experience of our team to enter this market with purpose and precision.”
The Aquila signature shows in both form and function with features like bridge-to-bow stairs for easy access and clean, contemporary lines throughout. These new sailing catamarans also feature a distinctive fixed forward cockpit that transforms what other manufacturers overlook into the ultimate social zone. Each cabin maintains complete privacy with its own private entrance with ensuite heads and walk-in showers. Additional features include a spacious salon bar area, Aquila's patented (optional) tender crane, and a roomy salon and galley area with panoramic windows to maximize natural light.
The Aquila sailing catamarans feature an optional integrated hybrid system combining electric and diesel power. This system—called Hybrid Ocean Drive™—provides silent electric propulsion for precise maneuvering in harbors and anchorages, with diesel power available when conditions demand it. "Our hybrid system isn't an afterthought—it's integrated from day one," explained Raas. "We designed the entire propulsion architecture around this dual-power approach, ensuring seamless transitions and optimal performance in every scenario."
Sino Eagle—the Aquila shipyard—operates a precision manufacturing facility with extensive experience building power catamarans, Olympic rowing shells, kayaks and surfboards. The facility applies rigorous construction standards developed for ocean-going vessels:
The Aquila sailing catamaran project brings together industry-leading expertise across design, manufacturing, and distribution. “This team brings decades of actual sailing experience to the drawing board,” said Jean Raas, CEO and chief product officer of Aquila. Including Raas—himself a former member of the US National Sailing Team and former director of purchasing and logistics for The Moorings / Sunsail—the team also includes:
PROVEN DISTRIBUTION PARTNER
Aquila believes that exceptional design and manufacturing must be paired with experienced distribution to deliver the best customer experience. In the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean, the Aquila 44ES, 50ES, and 63ES sailing catamarans will be exclusively distributed through The Catamaran Company. "Since 1987, The Catamaran Company has been exclusively focused on catamaran sales and chartering," said Staley Weidman III, chief executive officer of The Catamaran Company. "This partnership with Aquila brings together our sailing catamaran expertise with their proven design and manufacturing capabilities. We're excited to offer our customers sailing catamarans designed by sailors, for sailors."
The new Aquila sailboat line will debut at the 2025 Annapolis Boat Show with scale models and printed materials available to discover. The first opportunity to see the actual Aquila 50 sailboat in person will be at the 2026 Miami Boat Show.
Pricing and delivery information will be announced at upcoming boat shows. International distribution arrangements will be announced soon.
Media Contacts:
Alain Raas, Global Brand Director, alain.raas@aquilaboats.com
Chuck Downs, Global Director of Marketing, chuck.downs@aquilaboats.com