Project Detail Information
Project Name Visakhapatnam–Kakinada Sea Glider Service
Technology Wing-in-Ground (WIG) Effect / Hydrofoil
Route Length Approximately 150 km
Estimated Travel Time 45–60 Minutes
Propulsion 100% Electric / Zero-Emission
A Revolution in Andhra’s Blue Economy
​As of 2026, Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself as a pioneer in futuristic maritime transport. The Visakhapatnam to Kakinada Sea Glider project represents a shift from traditional ferry services to high-speed, eco-friendly transit. By utilizing cutting-edge “Wing-in-Ground” (WIG) effect technology, these vessels are designed to “fly” just a few meters above the water’s surface, combining the speed of an aircraft with the accessibility of a boat.
​The Technology: How It Works
​Unlike traditional boats that struggle with water resistance or expensive aircraft that require airports, the sea glider operates in three distinct phases:
​Hull Mode: Navigates harbors at low speeds like a standard boat.
​Hydrofoil Mode: As it speeds up, it rises onto hydrofoils to reduce drag and handle wave clearance.
​Flight Mode: Once in open water, it retracts its foils and glides on a cushion of air created between the wing and the water surface.
​Why Vizag to Kakinada?
​The 150 km stretch between the “City of Destiny” (Visakhapatnam) and the “Pensioner’s Paradise” (Kakinada) is currently connected by a heavily congested national highway and rail network. A commute that usually takes 3 to 4 hours by road is expected to be slashed to under one hour.
​Tourism Boost: It offers a luxury experience for tourists visiting the Hope Island or the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary.
​Business Connectivity: Kakinada’s growing Special Economic Zones (SEZ) and Vizag’s industrial hubs will benefit from rapid personnel transfer.
​Sustainability: Being 100% electric, the project aligns with India’s “Net Zero” maritime goals, protecting the delicate marine ecosystems of the Bay of Bengal.
​Infrastructure and Implementation
​The project is being spearheaded under the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board (APMB) in collaboration with private tech partners (like REGENT). Infrastructure requirements are minimal compared to airports; the gliders utilize existing port facilities or dedicated floating docks, making it a cost-effective solution for regional connectivity.
​The Road Ahead
​While the project promises to redefine coastal travel, challenges remain in maritime regulation and “deconfliction” (avoiding fishing vessels and cargo ships). However, with the commissioning of new seaports in 2026 and a push for autonomous maritime technology, the Vizag-Kakinada sea glider is set to become the crown jewel of Andhra’s modern infrastructure.