Floatplane vs Boat-hull light amphibian, which is better?

[flyinggibbon]

Due to the excellent response to my previous post, it would appear that this forum has become my latest addiction, so I thought I'd pose another question, this time on an entirely personal basis.

As the board would appear to be full of seaplane pilots, with far more experience than I, if you had to choose between a plane on amphibous floats such as the Kitfox or the Glasair Sportsman 2+2 or a boathull like a Sea Rey or Buccaneer, which would you pick and why?

The use being to operate off a slip in Sydney harbour, for general pleasure flights to tarmac or grass runways with a lessor amount of liquid destinations?

I'm personally tempted by the Sportsman due to the build in a week program, which would be invaluable in operating the machine, however or are small floats pointless, so better to have the whole aircraft as a float?

Best

FG

[Lost Lake]

All my experience is on a regular float plane. The two biggest concerens about a flying boat IMHO is the potential/ probable leaking into the aircraft, and those sponsons on rough or choppy water. The 1 exception might be a seabee. This may be the rason buccaneers are so cheap.

[Driving Rain]

http://www.iconaircraft.com/a5-model.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51qTAbLiziI

Float equipped "high wing" sea planes are better around docks and beaching because the entry and exits are much easier and dryer.
For sheer sexiness the flying boat is hard to beat.. The ICON A5 is a "purdy" little airplane.
I've never been to Sydney but lots of photos show white caps and if that's true the planes you've mentioned can't take that sea state. Are there sheltered bays in and around Sydney that are large enough to accommodate small sea planes and more importantly where sea planes would be welcome and legal?

Cheers

[angry inch]

Off topic but Happy Aussie Day! "flyinggibbon" & any other Aussies cruising the forums. (It's still the 26th here...)

[flyinggibbon]

Thanks, though in the spirit of all things PC, it should now be really called "Invasion Day", bless those with bleeding hearts...

Yes, there are white caps and yes there are sheltered bays with slips where operation is possible (and legal) due to the size of the harbour...

What sea state would be the limiting factor in my case? I've only flown float off lakes in Europe so would be looking at a training "holiday" in Canada before commencing Sea operations...

And yes, I've looked at the Icon, and it would be the perfect aircraft, however, I can't help but feel they're being slightly optimistic considering the effort and time it has taken to get the seawind to certification...

Best

FG

[Rowdy]

For docking purposes, I'd stick with float equipped machines. Ask anyone who owns a lake or similar flying boat (other than maybe the high winged widgeon or goose) how much of a hassle it is to get in and out at your local lake/river/beach in one.

I really like the look of the sportsman and the specs at least on paper anyway. I've never personally flown one, but it would be a major contender if I were to go in that direction.

[Driving Rain]

Hi flyinggibbon,

The 2+2 would be able to withstand the most punishment in the wave department. I'd estimate a 1 to 1.5 ft chop wound be max for an aircraft mounted on 2200 to 2500 size floats depending on experience levels and loads.
If I had to choose I'd go with the 2+2 because of the high wing and performance factors.
I've had a close look at them in Oshkosh. They appear well build and sturdy.... But the ICON is sure sexy.
For floats I'd suggest composite or fiberglass make due to the fact that you'll be flying off salt water. If you have your eyes set on amphibs expect to pour a few bucks and man/hrs into corrosion prevention fighting the effects of salt on all the dangling expensive metal bits on floats and airframe.

Good luck with what ever way you go mate.
Cheers
DR