A whimsical craft took to the Neva rivers with a bold nod to automotive design, modeled after a Ford Mustang sports car. The plan was to glide along the ice that time of year, but the vessel found itself halted by a stubborn layer of freeze. Onlookers who caught sight of the scene on social media shared video clips and quick glimpses, turning a local curiosity into a small viral moment.
Public commentary from residents echoed with amused disbelief as the fiberglass silhouette and glossy paintwork suggested speed and performance, even though the craft faced an icy challenge rather than an open-water dash. The incident became a talking point across forums and feeds, with many calling it a playful homage to a classic American icon that somehow met a carless winter wall on a northern canal.
Noteworthy details in the footage showed a festive twist: a Christmas tree perched atop the roof and a performer dressed as Santa Claus at the helm. The contrast between cheerful decoration and the practical difficulty of moving through slushy, sun-warmed ice created a memorable tableau that residents found endearing as well as amusing. The contraption looked earnest in its attempt to negotiate the river in holiday spirit, even as the ice presented a stubborn barrier to progress.
Throughout the summer, the distinctive craft drew attention from people who frequented St. Petersburg’s water bodies. It became a common sight to spot the Mustang-inspired boat in nearby reservoirs, attracting curious spectators and inviting questions about how such a nontraditional craft surfaces in a bustling city’s aquatic landscape. An official inspection agency, responsible for non-motorized and small vessels, took note of the vessel. During a routine check, authorities confirmed that the captain’s documentation complied with the applicable regulations for watercraft in the country, and that the amphibious vehicle had been registered in accordance with proper procedures. The episode offered a rare glimpse into the intersection of novelty design and the safety practices required for enjoying Russia’s rivers and canals responsibly.
Vote – win Lada!
There is a lighthearted invitation to participate in an ongoing poll that celebrates innovation in automotive design. The event invites readers to cast a vote in a public survey, helping to recognize standout car novelties introduced this year. The spirit behind the poll is playful and community-focused, encouraging people to engage and share their favorites from a broad range of new vehicles and concepts that emerged recently.
As a token of appreciation for those who take part, a small prize drawing is arranged for participants who complete the questionnaire. The incentive runs for a limited window, with eligibility extending to entries submitted by the stated deadline, offering everyone a fair chance at the drawing while keeping the process lighthearted and accessible.