SeaBubbles has launched SmartBubble, a new flying boat that is designed to carry up to eight people at a speed of 16kts (30km/h).
Submerged wings (retractable foils) equipped with automatic flaps enable flight at low speeds, cutting the vessel’s energy requirement by 40%. This model follows the company’s first public line on Lake Annecy, where passengers experienced the sensation of flying aboard The Bubble (four-seater model). SeaBubbles says the vessel takes its passengers on a silent and environmentally friendly flight, ideal for water taxi services and urban transportation.
Neocean acquisition
SeaBubbles has also announced the acquisition of Neocean, to accelerate the development of its flight control expertise, specifically on ‘inverted T’ foils. Neocean is renowned for developing the Overboat foiling catamaran with proven stability and maneuverability.
Vision for the future
“Foils significantly reduce the drag of our boats, allowing our hydrofoils to move more easily and with less energy than a conventional boat: a considerable gain in cost and energy,” explained Virginie Seurat, CEO of SeaBubbles. “The acquisition of Neocean marks a decisive turning point and prepares us for our industrialization phase. We are ready to redefine the pleasure of boating and offer boats that comply with increasingly stringent environmental standards, while offering unique sailing comfort – zero noise, zero waves, zero emissions.”
In related news, an electric hydrofoiling Candela C-8 recently drove between Stockholm and the Finnish autonomous region of Åland. This was reportedly the first time an electric boat has crossed the Baltic Sea and made the journey between Sweden and Finland. Click here to read the full story.