Regent completes first crewed flight of Viceroy Seaglider

Seaglider vessels are high-speed, hydrofoiling wing-in-ground effect craft that combine the speed of an aircraft with the convenience of a boat. The vessel operates in three modes – float, foil, and fly – starting on its hull at low speed, transitioning to hydrofoils once clear of the dock, and then taking flight within one wingspan of the water’s surface.

Hydrofoiling gives Seaglider wave tolerance and manoeuverability in harbours and near coastlines. A triple-redundant digital control system manages stability autonomously, so even in flight, the captain drives the Seaglider like a boat: left, right, fast, and slow. Regent claims the digital control system offers a level of safety and control that no Wig craft has achieved before it.

“Completing this flight test validates years of rigorous engineering and operational work and gives us the confidence to move into full-rate production”

The Viceroy vessel will be able to fly at speeds up to 180mph for up to 180 miles, and seat 12 passengers and two crew. Onboard, Regent reports that passengers can expect ample legroom, large windows, and a quiet ride – all while travelling faster than a ferry and skipping the delays of airport-style check-in.

Regent’s Seaglider vessels are captained by certified mariners and regulated in the US by the US Coast Guard and by maritime authorities in countries around the world.

In June, Regent completed construction of the world’s first Seaglider manufacturing facility, a 255,000-square-foot site at its Quonset, Rhode Island headquarters that is coming online this year as the global production hub for the company’s order book.

The facility will house structural assembly, wing and hydrofoil integration, battery and systems installation, and water-based testing, with direct waterfront access for sea trials and proximity to Rhode Island’s maritime manufacturing workforce.