HoverAir AQUA Drone: World’s First Waterproof Self-Flying Camera Launches for Watersports

HoverAir launches AQUA, the world’s first 100% waterproof, self-flying Aqua drone, engineered for aquatic adventures and hands-free aerial content capture, with preorders now live.

100% Waterproof Self-Flying Drone Designed for Water Enthusiasts

Zero Zero Robotics, based in Hangzhou, China, has debuted the HOVERAir AQUA—the first drone purpose-built to take off, land, and float on water, setting a new benchmark for aerial imaging in aquatic environments. With an IP67 waterproof rating and neutral buoyancy, AQUA is engineered for water-sports lovers, creators, and families, redefining what’s possible in hands-free, on-the-water content creation.

Launching globally on August 21, 2025, via Indiegogo at an early bird price of $999 USD, AQUA meets the needs of stand-up paddlers, kayakers, wakeboarders, jetskiers, and boaters.

“Whether you’re stand-up paddling, kayaking, wakeboarding, jetskiing, fishing or out on a boat, HoverAir AQUA captures stunning third-person shots, hands-free and hassle-free,” says MQ Wang, CEO of Zero Zero Robotics, in the official press release.

Technical Features: 4K/100fps Camera, SmoothCapture 3.0, and Onboard AMOLED Display

AQUA’s 4K/100fps slow-motion camera is backed by a 1/1.28-inch CMOS sensor with 12MP HDR support, H-LOG color profile, and a lens with hydrophobic nanocoating, self-heating anti-fog tech, and 2x digital zoom. Thanks to the SmoothCapture 3.0 stabilization system, footage is sharp and stable—even in demanding aquatic environments.

Pilots enjoy direct access to a 1.6-inch AMOLED display integrated into the drone—allowing live previews, real-time playback, and camera adjustments without requiring a smartphone or companion device on the water. The drone offers up to 128GB of onboard UFS 2.2 storage for ample footage and photo saving, and a suite of more than 15 automated flight modes, such as snorkel and gimbal mode, for cinematic creativity.

Adaptive Performance: Lightweight, Fast, and Resistant

Weighing less than 249 grams (0.55 lbs), AQUA is exempt from FAA registration for recreational use in the U.S. Its design features magnesium alloy, stainless steel, and anti-corrosion titanium screws, ensuring reliability in saltwater and freshwater alike. The drone withstands winds up to 33 knots (about 38 mph) and tracks subjects at up to 34 mph (55 km/h), with 23 minutes of flight per charge—unmatched among waterproof, portable drones.

Hands-Free Control with the Lighthouse Accessory

Eliminating the need for a traditional remote or piloting skills, HOVERAir AQUA ships with the Lighthouse, a wrist-worn accessory for seamless drone control. The Lighthouse enables takeoff, landing, recording, mode switching, and activates the innovative Virtual Tether—an invisible “leash” keeping AQUA within user-set proximity. If the drone drifts out of range, it automatically returns to the operator.

AQUA is also compatible with additional accessories, such as boat and board mounts and specialized carrying bags, making it more versatile for diverse aquatic activities.

A Leap in Autonomous Drone Imaging

With AI-powered subject tracking and an operating model inspired by PROMAX—the world’s leading self-flying camera for land sports—the AQUA brings effortless, third-person content creation to the water, offering creators and athletes a hands-free, worry-free solution. “HOVERAir AQUA is an important continuation of our HOVERAir line. We continue pushing the boundaries of technology and reimagining what the flying camera can be,” emphasizes MQ Wang, CEO of Zero Zero Robotics.

For those attending IFA Berlin (September 3–9, 2025), the AQUA will be available for live demonstrations at Hall 20, Stand 103, complete with a press lunch on September 4th.

DroneXL’s Take

HOVERAir AQUA stands out as a true category creator, unlocking third-person, on-water drone filming for consumers and professionals alike. The Lighthouse accessor and Virtual Tether address persistent safety and usability issues, while the sub-250g design skirts regulatory barriers and lowers adoption friction. However, the $999 USD entry price and late 2025 delivery may give some pilots pause, especially as DJI and others innovate rapidly.

Does the promise of hands-free, AI-powered waterborne aerial imaging justify the premium? How might this new standard affect regulations, content creation strategies, and insurance in water-sports industries? We invite DroneXL readers to dive into the discussion in the comments below.