A First Look at the Aquitalia 78: Italian Elegance Meets American Ambition

When you hear a yacht owner say a single word to describe what drew them to their vessel—and that word is style—you know you’re about to experience something unique.

I recently had the pleasure of stepping aboard the Aquitalia 78, accompanied by Aaron Leatherwood, brand ambassador for Aquitalia Yachts, to explore the Italian-built flagship making its North American debut. The 78 leads a lineup that includes a 68, 88, and 95, and it sets the tone for a brand eager to make waves on this side of the Atlantic.

A Modern Italian Interior, Revitalized

From the moment you step into the salon, the 78 surrounds you with a tactile sense of refinement. “Aquitalia has a deep heritage in Italian yacht design,” Leatherwood tells me. “For this new series, they’ve revitalized that design language in a way that feels both timeless and forward-thinking.”

Leather, high-gloss wood accents, brushed metals, and elegant finishes combine to create an interior that’s not just visually luxurious—it’s experientially so. The salon is warm, spacious, and filled with natural light, encouraging both relaxation and socializing. Every detail has been thought through to strike the balance between elegance and comfort.

Customization That Sets a New Standard

One of Aquitalia’s standout strengths is their flexibility. “This is a semi-custom builder that truly listens to the client,” says Leatherwood. Owners can request lighter or darker woods, different upholstery colors, tailored galley layouts, or reconfigured seating areas. The 78 becomes an extension of the owner’s lifestyle, not just a yacht—but a curated living space.

A Master Suite That Rivals Home

Below deck, the four-stateroom layout is anchored by an exceptional master suite. Accessible via a private staircase, the full-beam master stateroom offers rare privacy and space, with amenities more commonly found in high-end residences. From the plush seating and desk area to the massive flat-screen TV and a full walk-in closet (truly his and hers), this space redefines onboard comfort.

“The master bath is also full-beam, with stone, wood, and metallic accents creating a spa-like atmosphere,” Leatherwood says. “It’s a space that consistently impresses—it’s hard to get people to leave once they’ve been down there.”

Outdoor Living, Elevated

Entertainment doesn’t stop at the salon. In fact, the Aquitalia 78 boasts more exterior entertainment space than interior. The aft deck features a large dining table with seating for eight, while the foredeck transforms into a social hub with room for 12–15 guests to lounge. The flybridge is a showstopper: two oversized settees, generous wet bar, abundant refrigeration, and storage all set the stage for unforgettable gatherings at sea.

Power and Performance

Underway, the Aquitalia 78 is no slouch. This particular model is powered by twin Volvo D13s for a total of 2,000 horsepower, reaching a top speed of around 19 to 20 knots. However, clients can select from a variety of propulsion options, including Caterpillar, MAN, or MTU powerplants—opening the door to 25–30 knot performance depending on configuration.

A Builder With a Legacy

With nearly 30 years of experience in both commercial and recreational marine industries, Aquitalia Yachts brings a rich heritage of boatbuilding to the table. Now, with models built to ABYC standards and enhanced for American preferences, the brand is poised for strong entry into the U.S. market.

“We’re excited to Americanize the Aquitalia brand,” Leatherwood says. “It’s a product that brings European elegance, proven performance, and serious customization potential to discerning buyers here.”

Learn More

To explore the Aquitalia 78 or any other model in the lineup, visit UnitedYacht.com

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