REGENT Craft Submits Design Basis Agreement for Viceroy Seaglider Certification

REGENT Craft, a US-based developer and manufacturer of all-electric seagliders, has taken a significant step towards maritime certification for its 12-passenger Viceroy seaglider by submitting the design basis agreement (DBA) to the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).

The DBA outlines the safety standards that the Viceroy seaglider design must meet to obtain certification, including a concept synopsis, regulatory analysis, and risk/hazard assessment.

This submission comes after extensive collaboration between REGENT and the US Coast Guard to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and safety standards. Approval of the DBA is anticipated by mid-year.

“The formal submission of the DBA reflects our commitment to regulatory compliance and safety for seaglider passengers, crew, and vessel,” said Ted Lester, VP of Certification at REGENT.

Seagliders are Type A Wing-In Ground Effect (WIG) craft that operate within ground effect, regulated as maritime vessels by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and US laws. The USCG oversees the certification process for seagliders in the US.

Upon approval of the DBA, REGENT will proceed to the final design stage, where the Viceroy seaglider’s designs will be developed for review. Subsequent stages involve US Coast Guard approval of final designs, vessel inspection during construction, and collaboration with operators for crew training and local compliance.

REGENT recently commenced sea trials of its Viceroy prototype in Narragansett Bay, RI, after obtaining USCG approval for navigational safety risk assessment. The company also broke ground on a manufacturing facility in North Kingstown, RI, slated for completion in 2026.

In addition, REGENT announced plans to establish seaglider manufacturing and services in the UAE through a joint venture with Strategic Development Fund (SDF), aiming to deliver electric seagliders to the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.

Once approvals are secured, the joint venture will produce seagliders in the UAE, offering aftermarket services such as maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).