“REGENT’s partnership with UME demonstrates the growing need for sustainable, high-speed transportation solutions,” said Adam Triolo, VP, Commercial Business Development, REGENT. “We look forward to working together to bring seagliders to coastlines in the Red Sea and beyond.”

The seagliders will supplement UME’s shipping network, connecting Red Sea destinations.

“UME is proud to partner with REGENT as the first delivery customer of Monarch seagliders,” said Capt. Mohamed Badawy, Chairman, UME. “The partnership represents our shared commitment to innovation in the shipping industry with the potential to increase sustainability and efficiency.”  

Seagliders combine the high speeds of aircraft with the convenience and low costs of boats — all with zero (direct) emissions.  

The novel vessel is an all-electric hydrofoiling wing-in-ground (WIG) craft, which means it always operates in ground effect, a phenomenon that occurs within one wingspan of the surface of the water and provides increased aerodynamic efficiency, allowing it to travel further on a single charge.

The Monarch seaglider will travel up to 400 miles (650 km) at 140 mph (225 kph) with 50-100 passengers or a 22,000lbs (10,000kg) payload. The Viceroy seaglider will travel up to 180 miles (300 km) at 180 mph (300 kph) with 12 passengers or a 3,500lbs (1,600kg) payload.

REGENT is advancing seaglider certification in markets around the world in partnership with classification society Lloyd’s Register (LR), ensuring the highest levels of safety.  

Expanding on REGENT’s work on the Viceroy seaglider, the company will be delivering Monarch seagliders that are fully compliant with all requisite international codes and standards for WIG vessels of this size and scope of operation.

“LR is pleased to collaborate with REGENT to develop international certification standards for the Monarch seaglider and other forms of innovative zero-emission maritime vessels,” said Joep Bollerman, VP Passenger Ships and Passenger Ship Support Center, Lloyd’s Register. “As the industry evolves to meet net-zero commitments, LR’s expertise in classification and compliance services means it is well placed to ensure these vessels comply with global safety and environmental standards, both now and in the future.”

© Shippax