The Sporty’s & Seaplane Pilots Association Photo Contest is happening now, and pilots are already sharing some incredible seaplane photos of lakes, rivers, coastlines, remote destinations, and favorite flying adventures. These photographic inspirations is a great reminder of what makes seaplane flying so special: freedom, adventure, and access to places most aircraft will never reach.
de Havilland DHC-6 100 Twin Otter
Photo credit: M. Ewell Young
Lake LA04 at Cape Santa Maria, Bahamas
Photo credit: Patrick Murphy
C-182K on AeroCet 3400 amphibs on Lake Isabel
Photo credit: Charles Christenson
1942 Aeronca 65-CA Super Chief on Sandy Beach
Photo credit: Jeff Campbell
PA-18 on Upper Trail Lake
Photo credit: Tad Smith
1979 Cessna Hawk XP II on Squam Lake
Photo credit: Bill Nesheim
There's Still Time to Enter
Have a favorite seaplane photo of your own? Submit it now for a chance to win a $1,000 Sporty’s Gift Card and have your photo featured on the cover of a future Sporty’s Pilot Shop Catalog. 2nd and 3rd place winners will each receive a $500 Sporty’s Gift Card.
Contest entries are open through August 15, 2026. Submitted photos may also be eligible for inclusion in the Seaplane Pilots Association’s annual calendar. Enter Now>>
Inspired to Get on the Water?
If these shots have you dreaming about float flying, Sporty’s Seaplane Rating Course with Patty Wagstaff is the perfect next step. This immersive course covers the essentials of seaplane flying, including floatplane basics, preflight, water taxiing, takeoffs, landings, docking, advanced operations, and safety. You’ll see seaplane flying in action through stunning video from Florida, Maine, Alaska, and other scenic locations, with practical instruction from legendary pilot and instructor Patty Wagstaff. Explore the Seaplane Rating Course>>
Complete the Seaplane Look
Bring the seaplane lifestyle wherever your floats take you. These top aviation-inspired styles are perfect for the dock, the airport, or your next warm-weather getaway.
Seaplane Escape AeroWear Polo
Featuring floatplane graphics, breathable stretch fabric, UPF 30 sun protection, antimicrobial material, and a wrinkle-resistant design, the Seaplane Escape AeroWear Polo is built for comfort on long summer flying days on the water.
Seaplane Aloha Camp Shirt
The Seaplane Aloha Camp Shirt blends island style with aviation adventure, featuring a bold yellow seaplane design, tropical graphics, lightweight 100% polyester fabric, a relaxed fit, and a left chest pocket.
Aloha Aviator AeroWear Polo
The Aloha Aviator AeroWear Polo offers breathable AeroWear comfort with UPF 30 sun protection, antimicrobial fabric, sublimated graphics, and a left chest pocket with sunglass holder.
