New hovercraft business Lokiy Hoverflights aims to offer new tourism experience in and around Newark, including Newark Showground and the lakes at Holme Pierrepoint
Is it a boat? Is it a plane? No, it's a new hovercraft business hoping to attract a few fans and provide a lift for tourism in the area.
Lokiy Hoverflights is a hovercraft experience aimed at offering an exciting new activity to Newark visitors and residents.
Capable of running on land or water, the bright orange hovercraft — named Invincible — will be piloted by business owner, Kiyth Fotitt.
The all-terrain vehicle is designed to sit three to four passengers and can reach speeds of up to 45mph.
Kiyth said: “Most people aren’t too sure about what a hovercraft actually is and almost certainly have never ridden on one.
“It’s something completely different, floating on air — an out of this world experience.
“It will go across all surfaces safely and you could even run over a tray of eggs without breaking them.
“It’s for everyone, elderly, disabled, people struggling with mental health, anyone from five-years-old up to 105 if they wanted to have a go.
“Everyone is entitled to a wow factor experience.”
As a licensed powerboat pilot Kiyth comes with a wealth of knowledge and decades of experience operating different type of boats through his voluntary work with the Sea Scouts.
He hopes to offer the hovercraft experience all year around at possible locations in and around Newark, such as Newark Showground and the lakes at Holme Pierrepoint, but is willing to travel further afield for special events, birthdays, weddings, private or corporate bookings.
“I first started this a few years ago but unfortunately before I got it, I was in a serious accident — so it had to go on hold until I was well enough again,” said Kiyth, who previously worked as a nurse.
“Then I ended up on a three month stint working in the ICU at King’s Mill Hospital when covid got in the way.
“Last year I made the decision to retire from the NHS and resurrected the idea and now I’m looking forward to getting up and running.”
The hovercraft can be unloaded from the trailer and ready to go within six minutes of arrival and passengers will be given ear defenders and eye protection on land, and a life jacket on water.
Kiyth also had the hovercraft fitted with a hydrogen fuel cell to increase efficiency and make it more environmentally friendly to run.
Following the widespread flooding experienced in the area over winter, Kiyth plans to offer his services to the police and fire and rescue service as the hovercraft can easily cross flood waters to deliver supplies or aid without fear of getting snagged on underwater debris.
He is also in talks with the Canal and River Trust seeking permission to use a stretch of the River Trent from Newark Castle towards Farndon, making the experience easily accessible for visitor arriving in Newark.
Anyone interest in learning more can contact the business by emailing: kiyth@newarklokiyhoverflights.com
