UME Shipping, REGENT collaborate on all-electric Monarch seaglider

REGENT Craft, a U.S. manufacturer of all-electric seagliders, has received a deal to deliver its all-electric Monarch seaglider to United Marine Egypt (UME) Shipping.

As disclosed, this deal builds on UME’s existing order for the twelve passenger Viceroy seagliders, reflecting “increasing demand for seaglider transportation solutions in the region”.    

Seagliders combine the high speeds of aircraft with the characteristics of a boat. This 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.

According to REGENT, the Monarch seaglider will travel up to 400 miles (650 km) at 140 mph (225 kph) with 50-100 passengers or a 22,000 lbs (10,000kg) payload. 

“REGENT’s partnership with UME demonstrates the growing need for sustainable, high-speed transportation solutions,” said Adam Triolo, VP, Commercial Business Development, REGENT.

“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.”  

REGENT is advancing seaglider certification in markets around the world to ensure the levels of safety. To remind, in May this year, the firm partnered with classification society Lloyd’s Register (LR) for certification and advisory services for twelve passenger Viceroy seagliders.

Expanding on the 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. 

He added that LR will continue working to “ensure these vessels comply with global safety and environmental standards, both now and in the future”.