Regent's Winged Passenger Ferry Soars Over Narragansett Bay

In a groundbreaking development, Regent Craft's Paladin seaglider has successfully completed test runs on Narragansett Bay, demonstrating its potential to transform coastal transportation. The sleek, 65-foot winged craft, powered by 12 electric propellers, is designed to glide up to 30 feet above the water at speeds exceeding 180 mph.

During the recent test, Regent CEO Billy Thalheimer took control of the prototype vessel and put its hydrofoils to the test. The Paladin was able to reach speeds over 50 mph while rising above the bay's surface, showcasing the seaglider's unique capabilities. Regent envisions these vessels complementing electric hydrofoil ferries, with the seagliders specializing in longer-distance trips.

With backing from influential investors like Peter Thiel and Mark Cuban, Regent is working to bring the Paladin and its Viceroy line of seagliders to market by 2027. The company is also in discussions with the U.S. Marines to explore military applications, such as island-hopping troop transport and clandestine operations. However, experts have raised concerns about the seagliders' detectability, stability, and cost-effectiveness at scale.

Regardless, Regent's ambitious vision has the potential to revolutionize coastal transportation, slashing travel times and offering a more efficient, emission-free alternative to traditional modes. As the company continues to refine its technology and navigate regulatory hurdles, the future of high-speed, air-cushioned seagliders is poised to take shape.