Today, Zero Zero Robotics officially launched an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign for its new HoverAir Aqua drone, described as the world’s first “water-based flying camera.” Alongside the campaign, the company revealed additional details about the device, highlighting its key feature: full waterproofing.
At this stage, the crowdfunding campaign is the only way to place a pre-order. Backers can purchase the drone at a special price of $999, which is 40% lower than the expected retail price of $1,676. However, delivery will require some patience, as shipments are scheduled to begin in December 2025.
A few weeks earlier, Zero Zero Robotics had already showcased the HoverAir Aqua in action. The drone is confirmed to meet the IP67 standard, allowing it to take off and land on water surfaces ranging from lakes and rivers to the open sea. Notably, it can even launch if it ends up flipped upside down in the water.
Other key features include resistance to strong winds, a top flight speed of 55 km/h, and a range of intelligent modes such as autopilot and object tracking. Despite these capabilities, the drone weighs under 249 g, which exempts it from strict regulatory requirements in the UK and removes the need for mandatory FAA registration in the U.S.
Today, the company also shared additional technical details. The HoverAir Aqua will offer up to 23 minutes of flight per charge, feature built-in storage of up to 128 GB, and include a SmoothCapture 3.0 image stabilization system. Its camera will support 12 MP stills. Another notable feature is a built-in 1.6-inch AMOLED display, allowing users to view recorded footage and adjust settings directly on the drone without needing a smartphone connection.
Alongside the drone, the company will introduce an accessory called Lighthouse. This portable controller acts like a “virtual tether,” helping keep the drone within view during fast movements on water, such as while surfing or kayaking. Users can set a maximum distance, and once the drone reaches it, the system automatically guides it back toward the operator.
The main drawback overshadowing today’s announcement is the long wait time. Devices pre-ordered through Indiegogo are promised for delivery only at the end of 2025. It was also clarified that review units for journalists will not be available until the fourth quarter of that year at the earliest.
Source: Newatlas
