Lex Raas retires from MarineMax, transitions to Executive Advisory Role with Aquila Power Catamarans

Lex Raas © Aquila Power Catamarans

Aquila Power Catamarans today announced that Lex Raas, the transformational leader who revolutionized the power catamaran industry and built Aquila into the world's leading power catamaran brand, is retiring from his position as President of Aquila Power Catamarans at MarineMax and transitioning to Executive Advisor role with Aquila.

Raas's remarkable career spans over five decades in the marine industry, during which he has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled ability to identify emerging market opportunities and transform entire industry segments. His visionary leadership has been instrumental in shaping the modern catamaran market, from his pioneering work with sailing catamarans at The Moorings and Leopard Catamarans to his groundbreaking development of the power catamaran segment with Aquila.

Industry-defining career achievements

Raas began his marine industry journey in South Africa, where his passion for multihull design first emerged. After gaining valuable experience with Beneteau in France and the United States, he joined The Moorings in 1994 as Director of Logistics, quickly rising through the ranks to become CEO in 2001. During his tenure at The Moorings, Raas orchestrated one of the most significant transformations in the charter industry by recognizing the untapped potential of sailing catamarans for Caribbean charter operations.

In what would become a defining moment for the industry, Raas later partnered with South African boatbuilders John Robertson and Jerry Caine to create the Leopard catamaran brand.

Building the Aquila dynasty

In 2012, Raas joined MarineMax as President of Charter and Special Initiatives, where he partnered with then-CEO Bill McGill and the Xiong family of Sino Eagle Group to launch Aquila Power Catamarans. Starting literally from "a scrap of paper" (as Raas often describes it), the team built Aquila into the global leader in power catamarans within just ten years.

Seamless leadership transition

Raas's transition to Executive Advisory role ensures continuity working closely with our next generation of leadership, including his sons Jean Raas (CEO and Chief Product Officer of Aquila USA) and Alain Raas (Global Brand Manager), who have been instrumental in the brand's continued success.

Industry impact and recognition

Throughout his career, Raas has been recognized as one of the marine industry's most influential figures. His unique ability to anticipate market trends and execute transformational strategies has earned him respect from industry leaders worldwide. His work has fundamentally changed how the marine industry approaches multihull design, charter operations, and customer experience.

Colleagues consistently praise Raas's ability to develop international teams that create winning strategies and exceptional products As one industry testimonial noted, "Lex has the ability to empower people to deliver exceptional product and continuously push the envelope" His extensive experience and unmatched knowledge is outdone by his commitment to his company's success and his customer's satisfaction."

Looking forward

Frank Xiong, representing the Sino Eagle Group, added, "Lex's partnership has been instrumental in building our manufacturing capabilities and establishing Aquila as the premier power catamaran brand globally. His continued involvement as Executive Advisor ensures that the innovation and excellence he has championed will continue to drive Aquila forward."

Reflecting on his transition, Raas commented, "Building Aquila from concept to global leadership has been the most rewarding chapter of my career. The foundation we've established, the team we've built, and the partnerships we've forged position Aquila for continued success. I'm excited to continue contributing to the brand's future in this new capacity while also having more time to enjoy the very lifestyle that our boats help create for our customers."