Aquila Catamarans has entered the New Zealand sailing market, appointing Whitehaven Marine as its official sailing distributor across Australia and New Zealand following the global debut of its first sailing model, the Aquila 50 Sail.
The appointment builds on an existing relationship: Whitehaven Marine already represented Aquila's power catamaran range in both countries, and that partnership now extends to the brand's sailing portfolio. To give Kiwi buyers direct access to local sales and aftersales support, a new Auckland-based sub-dealer is set to be introduced. The timing reflects a deliberate push into the New Zealand cruising and charter market as multihull ownership continues to rise among those seeking space, comfort, and genuine offshore capability.
The Aquila 50 Sail made its world debut at the Miami International Boat Show in February 2026, with its Australasian introduction planned for the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show in May. Regional distribution is now confirmed, meaning New Zealand buyers have direct access and support in place from the outset. The sailing range is set to broaden further, with the 45 Sail due in September 2026 and the flagship 65 Sail scheduled for September 2027, giving the line genuine depth across the cruising catamaran segment.
Nick Harvey, Chief Revenue Officer at Aquila Catamarans, spoke to the enthusiasm the 50 Sail has generated since its unveiling.
"The launch of our sailing range is going from strength to strength, and we are pleased to make the 50 Sail accessible to more buyers via our new dealers. Whitehaven Marine are experts in the market and the perfect representatives for the Aquila Sail range. We are proud of this new chapter and the positive reception of the 50 Sail, we look forward to seeing even more sailors experience the innovation, design and comfort that defines Aquila."
Developed in collaboration with J&J Design, the Aquila 50 Sail is built around volume, practical usability, and ease of movement throughout the boat. For New Zealand sailors who regularly navigate exposed coastlines or undertake extended offshore passages, those qualities carry real weight. Two layouts are on offer: a six-cabin, six-ensuite configuration suited to charter operations and those who like to entertain, and a four-cabin owners version aimed at cruising couples who want the comforts of home in a more private setting.
Jason Chipp, Aquila Power & Sail representative at Whitehaven Marine, outlined why the sailing range sits comfortably alongside their existing operation.
"We are very proud to represent the exciting new Aquila sailing catamaran range. Our appointment builds on the success of Aquila power catamarans in the Australia and New Zealand markets. The Aquila Sailing Catamarans have been purposefully designed for Cruising and the popular Charter market. Strong and high quality, the New Aquila Sail range is well suited to the demands of the Australian coastline and beyond. Think striking looks and intelligent engineering combined with an extremely functional layout. From the expansive social and living spaces to the quality of finish, the Aquila Sail range is a great fit for our regions and our customers."
Chipp also addressed broader trends in the segment and what the Aquila 50 Sail specifically brings to buyers.
"Sailing catamarans are a large part of the market in Australia and the segment continues to grow as more people discover the freedom and joy of extended passage making. The Aquila 50 Sail offers the largest volume in its class and her sea keeping abilities will certainly impress Australian and New Zealand cruisers. We look forward to presenting the six-cabin/six-ensuite A50 Sail at Sanctuary Cove boat show. It will certainly appeal to cruisers who like to entertain and the growing charter market. The four-cabin Owners version will suit cruising couples who will enjoy all the comforts of home, with the whole range representing excellent value. Best of all, owners will have the option to take delivery of their Aquila sailing catamaran at the factory and cruise it back home through the warmer waters of Asia in what would be seen as a tempting alternative to the much longer route from Europe."
The sailing expansion draws on the same foundations that shaped Aquila's power catamaran reputation: stability, spacious social areas, practical layouts, and a focus on onboard lifestyle. Those values carry through into the sailing range, pairing ease of handling with the generous living spaces that draw buyers to the catamaran format in the first place.
With local representation confirmed and three sailing models arriving in sequence over the next two years, Aquila's entry into this segment is immediately relevant for New Zealand buyers rather than a development to watch from a distance.
