Flight-Prep
Although riding in seaplane is a unique experience, physically riding in small plane is comparable to driving in a motor boat, motorcycle or rollercoaster so plan accordingly with more specific information below:
Pre-Flight
Weather Prep
Hot Weather: Summer time can be hot and there is no air condition in the planes, but there are air vents that are often opened to allow for a cool airflow similar to a boat.
We have fans as well to help cool you down. Temperatures above 85 can be uncomfortable for those sensitive to heat such as seniors and children.
Cold Weather: Cold weather is rarely an issue in beautiful sunny Florida, but rare days with below 60 degree weather can be uncomfortable for those sensitive to cold such as
seniors and children.
Footwear
We always recommend sandals because you never know when you might want to or have to put your feet in the water. If you’re getting off the plane for an excursion, then you may want to leave your footwear on the Seaplane while you enjoy the sand in your toes and water.
Age Restrictions
We host passengers of all ages and have had quite a few passengers in their 90’s join us. Overall, you should be in good health and we recommend flying for kids 3 and up.
Weight Limits
We don’t judge, but the FAA does! Weight limits are strictly enforced due to FAA regulations and because flights that are overweight simply cannot take off. Those with individual weights over 300 pounds are not permitted on any plane and total weight limits are determined by calculating the weight of all passengers by plane. Please check out our Planes Page for more information on weight restrictions by plane.
Seating Arrangements
We try to seat in accordance to preference, but heavier passengers in front and lighter passengers in back makes for the smoothest flight. We do reserve the right to determine the seating arrangements and may require certain seating arrangements for the safety of pilots and guests.
Life Jackets
Except for the Searey, life jackets are not required to be worn during most flights but are readily available in case of an emergency
During the Flight
Nausea
If you are sensitive to regular flying, boating, rollercoasters and other motion related activities then you may want to take medication like Dramamine to reduce the
motion sickness. However, we DO NOT sell any medications at our shop. All passengers have access to disposable bags in case of emergency.
Take Off / Docking
When leaving or docking the pilot will likely have their seatbelt off and the doors open. This is for safety purposes in the event that an emergency occurs and the pilot has to react quickly. Do not be concerned, but do listen careful to the pilots instructions during these times.
Microphone
Headset microphones must be very close to your lips to work. If you are speaking and cannot hear yourself speak then bring the microphone more closely to your lips. If that does not work then you may have to adjust the settings. Feel free to ask your pilot for assistance.
Wi-fi and Cell Phone Service
We do not restrict the use of phones during flight, but you may not have access to all of your phone’s features. Generally, you will get wifi access throughout the course of your flight, but you should be paying attention to the beautiful sites instead.
Music
We are able to play music in the headsets and do so on our more advanced tours so feel free to let your pilot know if you have a music preference!
What Can I Bring on the Plane?
Items to Bring
Space and weight are limited on flights so we recommend packing lightly. Valuables like keys, wallets and phones be stowed away and not put into your pockets as they might fall out into the water when boarding and deboarding the plane.
Pets
We do allow for small dogs and certain service animals on flights, but do not recommend pets due to flying motions and loud roar of the engine. Animals that intend
on flying should have had prior experience flying or similar activities. We do recommend noise cancelling headphones. We reserve the right to prohibit any animal from boarding so please call in advance to see if you pet might qualify.
Personal Headsets
You are permitted to bring your own headsets but be aware that we have lost great headsets to the water so be careful!
Alcohol Policies
Per FAA regulations, no alcohol can be served in flight and we do not allow intoxicated passengers. We do not serve or sell any alcohol other than our champagne flight add-on which can only be consumer before or after the flight. For excursions or adventures, we do allow small coolers that can be stored during the flight and are accessible after deboarding. Also be aware that alcohol can increase nausea and lead to bathroom breaks with no bathroom in the plane. In general, have fun but don’t carried away or you will probably ruin the fun.
Smoking / Vaping
Smoking or vaping of any kind is prohibited while flying.
Marijuana
Smoking or vaping of any kind is prohibited while flying and otherwise Florida state and local laws apply.