Aquila introduces purpose-built 36 Molokai fishing platform
The 36-foot catamaran features a composites-intensive design, pairing hardcore fishing capability with thoughtful comfort features.
Source | Aquila Power Catamarans
(Clearwater, Fla., U.S.) has announced the launch of the 36 Molokai, the newest addition to its Molokai catamaran series. Building on the success of the 47 Molokai, the 36-foot fishing platform delivers offshore capability with comfort and versatility.
Built with the same attention to fishing-first functionality, the 36 Molokai is said to deliver “serious angling credentials” with intelligent deck layout that maximizes fishing space and functionality. Its twin-hull design provides the stability and ride quality that catamaran anglers have come to expect, while advanced construction techniques ensure durability in challenging conditions.
These fabrication techniques include an infusi-core construction. According to , “vinyl ester and composite coring materials are laminated in a labor-intensive process. This uses numerous vacuum points, ensuring resin impregnates and saturates evenly with minimal vapor or emissions. This is combined digitally — cut fiberglass and composite to provide exact fit and strength.” The use of robotic routers, computer-controlled table cutters and other equipment also achieves a better product, Aquila says, while reducing waste and weight. Framework supporting hull strength is even built in a separate mold to ensure proper placement of other parts during installation, and an exacting fit.
The 36 Molokai also features a carbon fiber hardtop. Unlike traditional fiberglass hardtops, Aquila notes, which may flex or require extensive reinforcement, carbon fiber construction provides an inherently strong, rigid foundation that can handle the demanding loads of a tuna tower installation (outriggers, antennas and electronics) without additional structural reinforcements required.
“We didn’t set out to build just another 36-foot boat,” says Jean Raas, CEO of Aquia USA and chief product officer. “We built a fishing weapon that happens to be 36 feet long. Every design decision was made with serious anglers in mind.”
The 36 Molokai’s bow area exemplifies intelligent design, blending relaxation with fishing functionality. Bow sun loungers provide comfortable seating for three crew or guests during transit or downtime, with optional storage beneath for tackle organization and gear. This optional storage feature enables owners to customize their layout based on priorities.
Beyond the bow seating, the 36 Molokai maximizes comfort and functionality throughout. An integrated tackle station keeps fishing gear organized and accessible, while the summer kitchen with optional BBQ transforms the boat into an entertaining platform. Pull-out coolers provide convenient storage and create additional aft-facing seating, ensuring ample room for crew and guests whether fishing or relaxing.
While most fishing boats leave crews exposed to the elements all day, the 36 Molokai includes a sleeping cabin with private head, allowing anglers to extend single-day trips into overnight adventures. The cabin also provides a welcome retreat for family members, making the boat more inclusive for mixed-group outings where not everyone wants to fish all day.
The 36 Molokai will debut at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October 2025.
Aquila features a catamaran portfolio that includes models ranging from 28 feet up to 70 feet
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