Imagine a world where your daily commute happens over water, not stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic. A world where boats don’t just float—they glide above the water, faster, smoother, and completely electric. Sampriti Bhattacharyya, an Indian-born innovator, is turning this dream into reality with her revolutionary company, Navier.
Her journey is not just about boats and technology—it’s a story of passion, resilience, and breaking barriers.
From Failing Physics to Engineering the Future
Born and raised in Kolkata, India, Sampriti’s early years weren’t exactly smooth sailing. In school, she failed physics—a subject that would later define her career. But rather than give up, she fought back, diving deep into engineering and technology.
She earned her degree in electrical engineering from Jadavpur University, securing competitive internships at NASA and Fermilab. Not stopping there, she went on to pursue a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at MIT, one of the world’s most prestigious institutions.
The Big Idea: Making Boats “Fly” Over Water
In 2020, Sampriti founded Navier, a startup that is redefining water transportation with the Navier 30, a futuristic electric hydrofoil boat.
What makes it special? Unlike traditional boats that plow through water, this one lifts itself above the surface, drastically cutting drag and making it:
✅ 10x More Efficient – Uses far less energy than regular boats.
✅ Fast & Smooth – Rides like a private jet on water.
✅ Eco-Friendly – 100% electric, no fuel, no pollution.
✅ Game-Changer for Cities – Can slash commute times on waterways from 90 minutes to just 25 minutes.
This is not just a boat—it’s a vision of the future where waterways become highways.
Before Navier: Underwater Drones & Deep-Sea Innovations
Sampriti is no stranger to ambitious projects. Before Navier, she founded Hydroswarm, a startup that built autonomous underwater drones for ocean exploration and security. These drones could scan the ocean floor, inspect underwater pipelines, and even detect potential threats.
Her expertise in robotics, combined with her passion for sustainability, set the stage for her next big leap—Navier.
Recognitions & Achievements
Sampriti’s groundbreaking work has earned her global recognition:
🏆 Forbes 30 Under 30 (2016) – Celebrated as a rising tech innovator.
🏆 Robohub’s 25 Women in Robotics – Recognized as a leading force in AI & robotics.
🏆 MIT Innovator to Watch – Acknowledged for her futuristic approach to transportation.
Breaking Stereotypes, Inspiring Millions
Beyond technology, Sampriti’s story is about defying odds. From an Indian girl who failed physics to a trailblazing engineer in Silicon Valley, she proves that success isn’t about where you start, but how hard you push forward.
Her work is not just about creating new technology—it’s about changing the way we think about transportation, energy, and the environment.
Final Thought: The Future Is on Water
Sampriti Bhattacharyya isn’t just building boats. She’s reinventing the way the world moves.
As cities get more congested and environmental concerns grow, water-based travel is the next frontier. And thanks to Sampriti, that future is coming faster than we ever imagined.
Would you ride an electric flying boat to work? The future is closer than you think!
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