Aquila 28 Review

In this review, topRik experts combined their own experience in studying two Chinese-American catamarans, Aquila 28 Molokai and Aquila 28 Molokai Cuddy, which have almost identical technical characteristics and purpose. What are the similarities, differences and advantages of both versions - we will tell you in detail.

As usual, the review from the topRik team is illustrated with a large number of photos, and to confirm (or refute) our conclusions, video reviews and research on cats from famous yachtsmen and boat testers are provided.

Pictured above is the Aquila 28 Molokai, and this is the first fishing boat from Sino Eagle Yachts with a wheelhouse located in the center.

The wheelhouse of Aquila 28 Molokai Cuddy is moved to the bow, but the roof in the form of a canopy over the huge aft cockpit is extended to provide comfortable conditions for trolling fishing.

Let’s immediately anticipate skepticism about trolling on a cat - we have seen in practice that these boats are distinguished by a design that reduces the amount of white foam on the water, which can ruin the fishing process, but more on that later.

Sino Company Eagle Yachts is increasingly conquering the American and European markets for comfortable catamarans. Since 2012, the company has been building motor catamarans of the Aquila brand at a shipyard in Hangzhou. With the brand gaining popularity, Aquila Yachts was created, a joint Chinese-American firm, where American designers and naval architects serve as developers, and Chinese yacht builders bring their designs to life.

Therefore, the company's announcement that they had begun developing a fishing platform was greeted with great enthusiasm by yachtsmen around the world. And immediately after the presentation of the first Aquila Molokai hull, these catamarans received the honorary title “a fisherman’s dream”. Who would doubt that Chinese and Americans know a thing or two about fishing.

New line of Aquila Yachts catamarans was defined as Offshore, including two models - Aquila 28 Molokai and Aquila 28 Molokai Cuddy. Both have the same body design, but differ in layout.

Aquila Sino Eagle Yacht Company develops and produces with the participation of MarineMax. The models of the new marine line differ from most similar boats in having widely spaced hulls. The authors call this scheme “Hawaiian”, which improves the yacht’s handling in various weather conditions.

Characteristic features of the exterior are a vertical bow, which is clearly demonstrated by the photo above, as well as outboard engines spaced far apart from the sides.

Aquila 28 Molokai is, in fact, a classic sea fishing boat with a central control console, but in a multi-hull design. The presence of a deckhouse from side to side in the bow in the Aquila 28 Molokai Cuddy version somewhat limits freedom of movement on the foredeck, but makes the catamaran suitable for overnight stays on board, since it is not open to all winds at once.

Despite its large footprint of 30'9" (9.4 meters) x 9'9" (3 meters), it retains a very shallow hull draft of 1'1" (around 30 cm), making the Molokai well suited for both inshore and offshore fishing.

Standard drives are a pair of 150 HP engines, but two 225 HP engines can also be installed. Both versions feature outboard engine models only.

Fishing features include flush-mounted gunwale rod holders, transom rod holders, a livewell, multiple catch storage lockers and tackle storage compartments.

Features of Aquila 28

Maximum Speed and Fuel Consumption

Review of Aquila 28 by topRik Team

SimpleSail charter fleet, located in our marinas in Croatia and Montenegro, often organizes sea fishing trips at the request of our clients.

Therefore, it is quite logical that the topRik team at one time received the task of taking a closer look at such specialized boats.

We are not talking about sport fishing here - about those large yachts with minimal maneuverability, which are not suitable for many water sports that rely on towing (skiing, wakeboarding, etc.)

It was necessary to investigate the boats that would combine the tasks of a pleasure cruiser with the ability to organize the most comfortable conditions for amateur fishing in the sea in various ways. In addition, it must be fast enough so that you don’t much waste time searching for fishing spots or driving to previously explored places.

We already were familiar the products of the Chinese-American company from their Yachts and Sport series well, so we could not miss the Offshore series, which, according to preliminary correspondence data, fully met our goals.

First Impression

In addition to the already listed features and differences between the two representatives of the Offshore series, we were interested in the “windows” on the sides. Why is the object of interest enclosed in quotation marks? Because when we got close, we realized that this was just an imitation - similar to the pleasure catamarans of the other two series. We laughed, but agreed that a completely white side just would not look as good.

Of course, if we had seen the Cuddy version first, the mystery would not have arisen - no one would have mistaken this blue or red shape for a porthole.

The similarity of the hulls of both versions was noted at first glance.

We decided that the option with the bow deckhouse is more intended for walks with a large group or family - in the aft cockpit you can not only place sun loungers, but even organize an all-out feast - there is plenty of space for this.

But the version with a central steering console boasts freedom of movement around the wheelhouse and the ability to organize a comfortable social area in the large bow cockpit in the style of luxury pleasure catamarans from this manufacturer. I wonder what we will talk about and what we will show when we get to this part of the cat along the deck? It seems like they demonstrated everything, looking overboard from the pier...

The fishing setup for all types of board fishing is visible from afar, even if the rods are not yet installed. Firstly, it’s a special console with a well for live fish and containers, which you won’t see on regular catas, and a fairly powerful frame with stainless steel supports and holders that shines in the sun, and secondly, it’s just beautiful.

As a result of an external inspection, the topRik team concluded that the Aquila 28 fishing platform is not two separate catamarans, but one boat in two versions: with a center console - for the Mediterranean and similar warm climates and with a Cuddy bow deck - for regions with more severe navigation conditions, for example in the cold, stormy waters of the North Atlantic. Let's see if this conclusion is justified with further testing.

At the Transom

We already showed you the transom before, but we didn’t mention that there is an area between the engines that can be used as a swimming platform if no one is busy fishing at that moment. And this is a sufficient area to organize a beach spot at the sea or in the middle of a lake, while also attaching an outboard ladder to the handrails.

As you can see, the exit to the platform for a fisherman or swimmer is blocked by a door that is part of the transom wall - the cockpit is completely closed. Standing on the platform, you can use the deck shower at the end of your swim.

And this is what the transom of the catamaran Aquila 28 Molokai looks like in shallow water with the engines raised. Appreciate the power of the transom board, which also holds a couple of fishermen or sunbathers on the platform.

Well, from the external openings on board we see that the yacht’s cockpit is self-draining, that is, the boat is equipped with a system of pipelines, pumps and gaskets that automatically removes water as it enters the cockpit.

Stern and Bow Cockpits

One of the topRik experts joked that the entire vessel after the transom is one big cockpit, and in some way, he was right, especially in the Cuddy version.

What we see in the schematic above in front of the cockpit windshield is a solid deck with hatches for anchor installation and other technical needs. But here you can also equip a spot for sunbathing while anchored.

But the aft cockpit occupies the largest area of the deck, and here you can arrange a sunbathing area by placing mattresses directly on numerous lockers for storing equipment and other things needed for fishing (as well as for diving, spearfishing and other water activities).

During fishing, in the Cuddy version, a well is installed before entering the platform for live bait or caught fish.

In the version with a central deckhouse, such a well is an integral part of a special segment, which in addition to it includes a set of containers of different configurations and locations for bait and tackle.

A similar installation in the Cuddy version separates the wheelhouse from the cockpit, and its contents are almost the same as in the version with the wheelhouse located in the center of the deck, with the exception of the well.

In the aft cockpit of both versions, it is possible to install reclining seats on either side of the gate on the platform. A very convenient option that allows you to adjust the free area depending on how this space is used - for walking or fishing.

Here’s how the layout of regular Aquila 28 Molokai with centered wheelhouse looks:

But don't think we don't have more to say about this part of the center console cat. In addition to a truly comfortable and large social area, there is a solid deck with hatches in the very bow.

And these hatches provide access to the chain box and two storage compartments, for example, fenders or any other equipment.

Inside the Wheelhouse

Regardless of placement, maximum comfort for the helmsman is created here. Very comfortable chairs are available, that are adjustable to the height and position of the skipper while steering the catamaran.

A special feature of a boat with a central pilothouse is the ability to use below-deck space, where you have spacious lockers under the side decks for storing catch, gear, water toys, etc.

And in the Cuddy version below-deck lockers are located along both sides of the huge cockpit, so there are no losers here.

The same applies to the main control panel. In both versions they differ only in the placement of instruments, equipment and indicators on the helm panel. But their quality is equally high - this is evidenced by the Raymarine marine display with hybrid control (touch and push-button).

In general, the set on the helm panel depends on the needs of the owner - in the photographs above you can see places for a second chartplotter and additional indicators.

We were glad that such a powerful handle is installed here to control the motors, and the steering wheel in the form of a car steering wheel can be adjusted to suit you also.

The developers thought about the convenience of all participants on board the Aquila 28, providing the opportunity to equip a toilet room, washbasin and shower with an entrance from the bow deck and from the wheelhouse - in the case of the Cuddy version.

At the Sea

Since our marinas are located in the Mediterranean region, the topRik team tested the Aquila 28 Molokai motor catamaran with a wheelhouse located in the center of the deck at sea.

When we talked about the minimal amount of white foam, before we even got on board the cat, we just saw this deep tunnel and the absence of any partition between the hulls.

Practice has shown that we were not mistaken in this assumption. The Aquila 28 Molokai is especially good at speeds of 25-26 knots. At this speed, the air cushion under the bottom between the hulls is preserved, and the boat does not shake even on a strong wave. By the way, at this speed, fuel consumption is quite efficient - 62 liters per hour.

In general, the boat does not heel even when turning at high speeds, although we did not dare to do this, accelerating to a maximum of 40 knots, and also did not check whether the catamaran could exceed the stated maximum.

When going on plane, the Aquila 28 Molokai is perfectly regulated by changing the running trim - you will have to do this depending on the number of passengers and the weight of luggage in order to maintain the required speed to save fuel.

If we are talking about a boat trip, then the speed for short passages can be increased to 30 knots, just keep in mind that then the fuel consumption will exceed 112 liters per hour.

Advantages of Aquila 28

The advantages of the Aquila 28, like any catamaran, are their stability and safety even in heavy seas, especially if the weight distribution is as well thought out as on these boats.

Quality, which compares favorably with the price of the Offshore series, is generally a distinctive advantage of yachts from this manufacturer.

Ideal conditions and equipment for 360-degree onboard fishing are perfectly combined with the ability to use boats in this series for both coastal 1-2-day cruises and weekend boat trips.

Aquila 28 catamarans are designed not only for fishermen, but also for a wider range of categories of sailors. This is facilitated by excellent seaworthiness, which topRik experts have verified from personal experience.

Reviews of Aquila 28 from Professionals

Testing at Hillsborough Bay in Pompano Beach, Florida was conducted by Charlie Levine of Power & Motoryacht. It will be all the more interesting to compare the impressions that Patrick Sciacca from Boating.com shares from testing the same boat in the same region.

Charlie Levine Article

Charlie Levine began his review in an interesting way. He described the moment when Lex Raas (Aquila president) came up with the idea of creating a catamaran based on boats that are made at Molokai. This happened during the canoe race at Hawaiian channel between Maui and Molokai. This idea forced Aquila president to contact Kirk Clark, who has been building cats on Molokai for 30-plus years. Follow the link and read the continuation of the story of the creation of this model.

The author of the review described in detail the entire process of testing the catamaran, its behavior in different sailing conditions at different speeds. And this is where Charlie confirms that this catamaran is excellent for trolling.

Answering the question of Aquila president - what the tester wanted to change in the design of the cat - Charlie suggested extending the roof of the wheelhouse another foot or more, so as to provide fishermen with shade without being too limiting.

Read about the further testing process and to get acquainted with the results of testing the boat for speed and fuel consumption by clicking on the link above.

Patrick Sciacca Article

Report from Patrick turned out to be very short. In the first sections, he described the main features of the boat design, fishing equipment and features of outboard engines. The author compared the speed of the boat's transition to planing with dog-sees-squirrel urgency.

Speed of 46.5 mph (75 kmph) Patrick defined as average; the engine came out at 5500 rpm.

The boater declared a comfortable speed of 33 mph (53 kmph) at 4000 rpm and fuel consumption of 16.9 gallons (64 liters) per hour.

The author suggests reducing the speed to 23.5 mph (38 kmph) if you want to reduce fuel consumption to 9.4 gph (35.5 liters). In this case, the range will be 337 miles.

Patrick emphasized that the boat is equally good for fishing by trolling while traveling along the coast, and for fishing while stationary, including near the shore.

In conclusion, he highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of the vessel, identified his closest competitor, and gave a detailed table for testing the boat for speed and fuel consumption. To find out more details, follow the link.

Video Reviews of Aquila 28

Let’s get to the visuals: he we gathered five of the most interesting videos we could find on these two boats. If you want to see more, you can find other ones on our Aquila Molokai 28 sales page.

First, look at this sturdy vessel in action, cutting the waves of the Pacific:

Aquila 28 Molokai explained briefly by Captain Peterson:

Much more detailed review of the same boat:

Demonstration of Aquila 28 Molokai Cuddy at the sea:

Conclusion

Of course, the first and main category of sailors for whom the catamarans of the Offshore series designed, are lovers of outboard fishing at the sea or in other water bodies.

The boat, by the way, is designed to accommodate 14 people. True, its design has restrictions on use in accordance with certification in the CE system: if there are 8 people on board - this is category B, 12 - C, 14 - D. Based on this and knowing about the fairly comfortable conditions for staying on board, and also about the safety of catamarans in general, the category of users can be significantly expanded by adding to amateur fishermen:

• fathers of families who want to combine their hobby with excellent water recreation for their loved ones;
• a group of divers, underwater hunters or deep explorers - there is plenty of space on the catamaran to accommodate their equipment;
• lovers of towing water sports;
• fans of sea holidays on a day off with a fishing rod, the opportunity to fly across the sea with the breeze and sunbathe in good company.

This list can be continued, which suggests that such catamarans will not sit idle at the charter company too.

Where to Buy Aquila 28 at a Bargain Price

You don't have to review dozens of offers on various website - Aquila 28 is available right here at a good price.

Creating favorable conditions for topRik clients is one of the main tasks of our team. Our specialists, who, of course, are practicing yachtsmen, have extensive experience in selecting all boats for our fleet. We will apply the practices that we use ourselves, based on our experience and established relationships with manufacturers and responsible dealers.

Consultations with topRik marketplace experts at the stage of choosing the version and configuration of Aquila 28 are available for free.

Another bonus that you can use for free and without registering on the website is a virtual configurator with the ability to adjust the cost of the selected version of the catamaran. To do this, just go to price calculator, and based on your own preferences and free advice from our experts, create your “fisherman's dream”.

We will not just leave you with this beautiful picture in your head – you can express your desire for further cooperation to us, and it will be fulfilled in the form of:

• finding suitable and favorable terms for the sale of Aquila 28;
• negotiations with the manufacturer or dealer;
• registration of all documentation, including insurance, customs permits and service agreements;
• control over the equipment of the catamaran and its condition before the hauling;
• ferrying the yacht to your specified destination by an experienced skipper or delivering it in another way.

Our contacts are listed on this page: call, send a message to [email protected] or just use quick feedback form in the Contacts section.