Shaped like the iconic flying saucers from science fiction movies, the craft dazzled viewers with its design and functionality. It even featured self-opening doors and was equipped with a motor capable of carrying two people.  

The viral clip has since garnered millions of views, along with thousands of shares and comments. Many expressed their astonishment at the creativity and skill that went into building such a unique model.  

Inventor behind the saucer

The flying saucer was crafted by Tran Long Ho, a 1987-born resident of Kien Giang province. Known on social media as a "DIY master," Long Ho has become famous for creating innovative models from old boats, engines, and scrap materials.  

“I’ve always been fascinated by flying saucers,” Long Ho shared. “I used to watch movies and read about extraterrestrial crafts, and eventually, I decided to design and build one myself to experience what it would feel like to pilot such a vehicle on water.”  

He started by drawing concentric circles on the ground using charcoal, then formed a mold out of sand. He poured liquid composite resin over the mold to create the saucer’s outer shell. Once the shell hardened, he reinforced it with steel, cutting and welding the pieces inside to provide structure.  

Long Ho also installed a motorized system, allowing the saucer's doors to open and close at the press of a button. To give it an authentic, futuristic feel, he added multiple windows with modern designs, illuminated by colorful LED lights.  

After fitting the model with an engine salvaged from an old jet ski, Long Ho took it for a test run on a local river. The sight of the UFO-like craft gliding smoothly on the water left onlookers in shock.  

“The flying saucer can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h and comfortably seats two people,” he explained. “Its outer shell, made from composite and reinforced with steel, ensures that it won’t capsize, unless it sustains serious damage that allows water to flood inside.”  

This isn’t his first foray into crafting unique watercraft. His previous creations include a water spider boat, a DIY yacht, and a high-speed boat - all made from scrap materials and designed for his own entertainment.  

What makes his work even more impressive is that Long has never received formal training in mechanics. He taught himself through research, trial, and error, using the internet and advice from experts to guide him along the way.  

Long Ho, who once worked as a hotel maintenance technician, became a content creator during the pandemic. After finding an audience for his DIY inventions, he left his job to focus on creating innovative models full-time.  

While his inventions are not certified for public use, he builds them purely for fun and to satisfy his creative passion. He proudly displays them as personal keepsakes rather than marketing them for broader use.  

According to lawyer Bui Quoc Tuan, while Long Ho's creativity and skill are commendable, individuals designing watercraft must adhere to certain legal requirements. “Inventions like this, especially those capable of traveling at high speeds, must be registered with local authorities to ensure safety and compliance with maritime regulations,” Tuan advised.  

He also emphasized the need for operators to possess the necessary qualifications to pilot such vehicles, as well as to have their inventions properly inspected and registered.  

“Society encourages innovation and creativity,” Tuan continued. “But in cases like this, the inventor should contact the provincial Department of Science and Technology, or the Department of Transportation, to receive guidance on how to formalize their work.”