REGENT Unveils World’s First Full-Scale Electric Seaglider and Launches Historic Sea Trials
REGENT Craft has reached a significant milestone in maritime transportation with the introduction of its first full-scale seaglider prototype, marking a crucial moment in the advancement of coastal transport.
The innovative 12-passenger Viceroy seaglider, named “Paladin,” signifies a breakthrough in maritime technology. Measuring 55 feet in length and boasting a wingspan of 65 feet, it is the largest all-electric flying machine ever built. The vessel features a unique design that allows for three operational modes: floating on its hull, gliding on hydrofoils above the waves, and flying in ground effect just above the water’s surface.
Source: REGENT
Initial sea trials began this month in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, where REGENT test captains successfully conducted the first series of on-water tests with human passengers. These trials followed extensive subsystem testing of essential components, including motors, batteries, electronics, mechanical systems, and vehicle control software.
REGENT’s Co-founder and CTO, Mike Klinker, described the maiden voyage as “surreal,” stating:
“This was the first voyage of a vessel that is destined to transform mobility — the era of seagliders has begun.”
The development of the Viceroy seaglider has advanced rapidly since REGENT was founded in 2020. The company previously showcased a successful quarter-scale prototype in 2022, validating its innovative approach to wing-in-ground craft technology. The seaglider’s design promises to deliver unprecedented efficiencies for coastal transportation, serving various purposes such as passenger travel, cargo transport, and emergency response.
The market response has been overwhelmingly positive, with REGENT securing an impressive order book valued at over $9 billion across six continents.
The classification society Bureau Veritas granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) for the Viceroy in August 2022, marking a significant milestone in the commercialization of seagliders. REGENT is also in the process of constructing a 255,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Rhode Island’s Quonset Business Park, set to begin operations in 2026. Additionally, the company has formed a joint venture with Abu Dhabi’s Strategic Development Fund to establish manufacturing capabilities, maintenance services, and crew training in the UAE.
On the regulatory side, REGENT has made notable progress. In August 2024, the company received U.S. Coast Guard approval for its Navigational Safety Risk Assessment, following a comprehensive third-party risk analysis and consultations with over 20 local stakeholders. Under US law, seagliders are classified as maritime vessels.
The Viceroy seaglider, capable of speeds up to 180 mph and a range of 180 miles on a single charge, represents a potential revolution in coastal mobility. The success of these initial trials positions REGENT at the forefront of sustainable maritime transportation, with plans to achieve the first human seaglider flight by mid-2025.
The development of this groundbreaking technology could fundamentally transform coastal transportation, providing a high-speed, environmentally friendly alternative for maritime travel. With regulatory approvals advancing and strong market demand, REGENT’s seaglider technology is poised to set a new standard in maritime transportation.
