HoverAir Aqua: The First Fully Waterproof Self-Flying Camera Takes to the Water

HoverAir has unveiled its latest drone, the AQUA, a waterproof drone designed specifically for water-based activities. This is the world’s first 100% waterproof, self-flying camera that enables users to capture stunning aerial footage hands-free, whether on a kayak, jet ski, or paddleboard.

Launching via Indiegogo today, August 21, 2025, it combines advanced AI tracking, rugged water resistance, and compact portability for an entirely new level of automated water-sport content creation.

Building on the success of the HoverAir X1 Pro Max and the original HoverAir X1, the Aqua extends their innovation into aquatic environments. It aims to serve water sports enthusiasts, creators, and families by offering a hassle-free way to shoot from interesting angles without manual piloting or remote controls.

Waterproof Design and Durable Features

The Aqua is engineered with a robust IP-67 water resistance rating paired with neutral buoyancy, allowing it to take off, land, and float on water without issue. Its hydrophobic nanocoating and self-heating lens prevent fogging and water damage, ensuring consistent image quality even in challenging conditions. It weighs less than 249 grams, light enough to carry around effortlessly, with no FAA registration required.

Thanks to a 4K/100 fps slow-motion camera with a 1/1.3” CMOS sensor, Aqua boasts sharp, high-quality footage in all scenarios. The company’s Stabilization 3.0 technology offers smooth footage, while the various automated flight modes offer a range of creative shots.

It claims wind resistance up to level 7, capable of withstanding storms at speeds reaching 33 knots. So, it should stay stead and reliably follow users over water.

Seamless Control and Innovative Accessories

Control is simplified with HoverAir’s new Lighthouse accessory, a wearable device worn on the arm that provides full remote capability. This includes takeoff, landing, mode switching, and recording. Its Virtual Tether feature detects when Aqua moves beyond a predefined distance, prompting an automatic return.

The drone also features a built-in 1.6-inch AMOLED display, allowing users to preview live footage and review clips on the spot, without connecting to a smartphone or tablet.

Aqua’s automation includes more than 15 flight modes, such as snorkeling and gimbal modes, offering creative flexibility. It features a maximum tracking speed of 55 km/h to ensure the camera can keep up with dynamic water sports.

With a 23-minute flight time per charge, the device is built for continuous shooting sessions, and its neutral buoyancy allows it to float safely if dropped in water. Even if the battery dies over water, it’ll still just sit there floating, waiting for you to collect it.

It will be interesting to see how sales of this compare to the recently announced Antigravity A1 drone. While very different devices when it comes to their use, they both target a similar audience. I’m sure some will opt to go for both, but for those on limited funds, I’m curious to see where they invest their money.

Price and Availability

The HoverAir Aqua is available to back starting at $999 via Indiegogo’s early bird offerings. Limited quantities are expected to be available at launch, with the company emphasizing its targeted audience of water-sports lovers, adventure seekers, and content creators eager to explore fresh perspectives.

Additional accessories such as boat and board mounts, carrying cases, and the Lighthouse control device will complement the Aqua to enhance the user experience. The drone will also be showcased at IFA in Berlin from September 3–9, 2025, where visitors can see Aqua in action and try it first-hand.

Disclaimer: We only share crowdfunded projects we believe are legitimate. However, most of those projects are not in a delivery state. Make sure you look into the project and make an informed purchasing decision. While some projects may offer amazing rewards, others unfortunately may not deliver on their promises.

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