Air Cushioned Vessel

A type of watercraft that uses a cushion of pressurised air beneath its hull to reduce friction and enable movement over water, land, or other surfaces.

An air-cushioned vessel, commonly called a hovercraft, is a unique type of marine craft that creates a cushion of air beneath its structure. This cushion is generated by powerful fans or blowers that force air into a flexible skirt surrounding the vessel’s base. The air pressure inside the skirt lifts the vessel slightly above the surface, effectively reducing drag and allowing it to traverse various terrains, including water, mud, sand, and even ice. Operating on multiple surfaces makes air-cushioned vessels highly versatile and suitable for search and rescue, military operations, passenger transport, and recreational use.

Unlike traditional boats, which rely on hulls to displace water for buoyancy, air-cushioned vessels achieve lift through air pressure, making them less dependent on water depth or surface conditions. This design allows them to travel at relatively high speeds and access areas inaccessible to conventional watercraft. However, their operation can be affected by strong winds, as the vessel’s stability is partially reliant on maintaining the air cushion. The flexible skirt is also subject to wear and tear, requiring regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

Air-cushioned vessels represent an innovative approach to marine transport, blending engineering ingenuity with practical versatility. They are particularly valued in regions with challenging coastal or tidal conditions, where their ability to “hover” over obstacles provides a significant advantage.