NEW LONDON, Conn. (WTNH) – Today we’re Cruisin’ Connecticut, to New London where you can glide over the Long Island Sound… not on a boat, or a jet ski… but a hover craft. Yes. This is real life.
The Blackbird Hovercraft fleet was created by Tom Murray, who was looking for an alternative way to commute to Wall Street from his Long Island home. A car, train or bus? Who needs that when you can fly over the water.
So what does one to do become hovercraft pilot?
I had to go get my Masters and my U.S. Coast Guard license, says Murray.
The Blackbird has been tested at 60 knots, and during our flight, we reached around 35 or 36 knots. When boarding the craft, many people think it will be similar to a boat… but that’s not the case:
The dynamics are just like a helicopter. There’s lift fans on the sides. Initially it’s an 11,000 lbs. bubble underneath me in the water. As I get to be like 8 mph, that bubble gets behind me and dissipates. Then I’m flying at 18″ off the water.
You can charter Blackbird to Fisher’s Island, Long Island Sound and more!
Know of cool people, places or events to check out for “Cruisin’ Connecticut?” Email me, or let me know on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Snapchat: @RyanKristafer
