Aquila 54 Yacht Review: The Owner-Operator’s Power Catamaran

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The Aquila 54 is one of the few purpose-built power catamarans in this size range, and it shows. The build quality is solid, the systems integration is thoughtful, and the performance envelope is honest. This isn’t a sailboat hull with engines bolted on. The underwater bulbs, planing hulls, and Category A certification mean it’s engineered for real offshore work. The optional sky lounge is worth the upcharge if you plan to spend time at the helm.

This boat is for the owner who wants to run their own vessel and cover serious distance without refueling every day. It’s not for the buyer chasing speed or the purist who thinks catamarans are a compromise. If you’re transitioning from a trawler or a mid-40s express and want more space without hiring crew, this is the right conversation. Families who cruise for weeks at a time will appreciate the four real staterooms and the separation between guest and owner areas.

Resale on Aquila has been strong, and the 54 sold 27 units before launch. That kind of pre-sale demand supports residual value. Maintenance costs will track at roughly 10 percent of purchase price annually, but you’ll save $100,000 per year by not hiring crew. The US-sourced equipment means you’re not hunting for parts in the islands or waiting on international shipping. This is a smart ownership play for the right buyer.”