US EditionWinged ferry that glides like a pelican tested for coastal transportation
The REGENT Viceroy Seaglider aims to cut coastal travel times significantly and is being adapted for military use, with commercial service expected by 2027, CEO Billy Thalheimer said.
- On August 6, 2025, REGENT tested its innovative wing-in-ground-effect vessel—a passenger transport capable of gliding just above the water—off the coast of North Kingstown, Rhode Island.
- REGENT developed the Seaglider amid rising tensions with China and is pitching it to the U.S. government for military and coastal transport uses.
- The vessel aims to soar about 30 feet above water at speeds up to 180 miles per hour, carrying passengers by 2027 while complementing electric hydrofoils.
- CEO Billy Thalheimer expressed excitement about the concept, explaining that the idea for a seaglider—combining the speed of an aircraft with the ease of operating a boat—was conceived around five years ago.
- The test advances prospects for coastal ferries and military roles, though experts note questions about the craft's range, detectability, stability, and cost remain.
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Winged ferry that floats and flies like a pelican
NORTH KINGSTOWN, RHODE ISLAND—The winged passenger ferry gliding over the surface of Narragansett Bay could be a new method of coastal transportation or a new kind of warship. Its maker, Regent Craft, is betting on both. Twelve quietly buzzing propellers line the 20-meter (65-foot) wingspan of Paladin, a sleek ship with an airplane’s nose. It […]...Keep on reading: Winged ferry that floats and flies like a pelican
·Manila, Philippines
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Associated Press News+36 Reposted by 36 other sources
Winged ferry that glides like a pelican tested for coastal transportation
Regent Craft is testing a new type of winged passenger ferry on Narragansett Bay. The vessel, called Paladin, glides over water using hydrofoils and is designed to fly up to 30 feet above the surface.
·United States
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Total News Sources38
Leaning Left11Leaning Right0Center16Last UpdatedBias Distribution59% Center
Bias Distribution
- 59% of the sources are Center
59% Center
L 41%
C 59%
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