The new Aquila Hydro Glide Foil System is set to revolutionize the world of power catamarans. This fixed carbon fiber foil, introduced by Aquila Power Catamarans, improves fuel efficiency by 35%. The Aquila Hydro Glide Foil System was unveiled in recent days at the Miami International Boat Show aboard the shipyard’s two new models, the 42 and 46 Coupé. Previously, it was only available as an option on select power catamarans like the 36 Sport, widely regarded as the world’s leading production foiling boat.
“When we started developing the Coupe series, we knew we wanted to include foils as an option for owners – says Jean Raas, Chief Product Officer & Chief Executive Officer of Aquila USA – We learned a lot from the experience of offering foils on our 36 Sport catamarans. Getting the shape right was an extensive process of trial and experimentation, but the performance gains we saw on those boats were incredible—upwards of 35% improved fuel efficiency. Once we realized how much our foils improve fuel efficiency and ride comfort, we decided to make them standard on the Coupes”.
Foils are not a new concept on boats. However, they are often found on the racing circuit and fully lift the boat out of the water, requiring significant experience and effort to operate. The dual hull construction of power catamarans allows for a foil to span between the sponsons, effectively lifting the boat at cruising speed without the need for sophisticated controls. “If you own a monohull boat and you want to increase your range, the typical solution is to add more engine power – says Raas – Unfortunately, this adds fuel and maintenance expenses to the cost of ownership. Foils are much more effective—the improved fuel efficiency means you can go further and faster without adding horsepower. Foils are a more sustainable way to increase range and efficiency”.
The Aquila Hydro Glide Foil System works in concert with the engine packages, but two outboard engines on each Coupe model provide as much range as triple or quad outboards on similar boats. “The decision to make foils a standard feature on the Coupé models reflects a high level of confidence built on years of research, investment, and testing. Foils are tricky to get right, and even the material matters. We spent a lot of time and energy getting this right, and now we want to make sure our customers enjoy the benefits”.
Building on the success of the recently launched 50 Yacht Power Catamaran, the new Coupe series combines all the fun of an open-air sport boat with the cabin comforts of a yacht, offering unprecedented usable space rarely found in vessels of this size range. Available with both inboard and outboard propulsion and standard Aquila Hydro Glide Foil System, these sleek and sporty catamarans are perfect for a day at the sandbar, a night under the stars, or a weekend excursion to an exciting destination.
