Test / Test of Aquila 44, a surprisingly powerfull power cat

We tried Aquila 44 off the coast of La Grande-Motte. The tramontane blows at more than 20 knots raising a choppy sea ideal for our test and to realize the excellent sea passage of this catamaran.

Efficient wave piercing bulbs

Essai Aquila 44

The Aquila is offered with 225 hp Volvo D4's as standard, but our version is equipped with the more powerful option of 2 x 320 hp Volvo shaft mounted. Against the wind and a rough sea, this motorisation propels us at 18 knots, cutting the waves and the impression of ease is astonishing. Inside, no jolts are perceptible and this allows you to move around on board as you go about your business, even in these rather harsh conditions. On the way back, with the waves at the back, the speed increases to 19 knots, the gap is not convincing and shows the merits of adding bulbs. The very smooth passage and the extra stability allow you to remain seated at the bar even at 18 knots. The active comfort is therefore as good as the comfort at anchor. He is remarkable in this category.

Essai Aquila 44

Essai Aquila 44

Interesting optional autonomy

Essai Aquila 44

At 18 knots the consumption is 114 l/h and if you stabilise at 14-15 knots, you will need to count 85 l/h. With the 1,100 l tanks, the range is about 180 miles and 400 miles at 9 knots, but there is an optional extra 360 l reserve that will be welcome to make longer trips quickly

An electric version in the United States

A version with Torqeedo Deep Blue electric motors, powered by two BMWi3 batteries, which are themselves regenerated by a 25 kW generator and solar panels, is offered in the USA by Nova Luxe. A range of 875 miles is possible, but at 6.5 knots and a top speed of 9 knots.

A user-friendly cockpit

Essai Aquila 44

Essai Aquila 44

The central cockpit is very spacious and user-friendly with its two side benches. For intensive use, a less exposed interior wheelhouse is preferable. And then the frontal descent, it's super practical when you need to go from the helm to the fly, take a mooring on the front beach or check the anchorage.

Essai Aquila 44