Earn your Single-Engine Seaplane Rating flying a Cessna 172 float plane over Florida’s lakes. Enjoy expert instruction, hands-on training, and unforgettable views in Tavares.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours total including ground and flight time
Fitness Level
Participants should have good overall health and the ability to handle moderate physical activity such as stepping in and out of the seaplane and enduring focused training sessions.
Wildlife
History
Tavares is renowned as Florida's official 'Seaplane City,' with a rich aviation tradition dating back to the 1920s.
Conservation
Jones Brothers & Co practices eco-friendly operations to minimize environmental impact on Lake Dora and surrounding habitats.
Jones Brothers & Co
Earn your Single-Engine Seaplane Rating flying a Cessna 172 float plane over Florida’s lakes. Enjoy expert instruction, hands-on training, and unforgettable views in Tavares.
Jones Brothers & Co is a seaplane operator based in Tavares, Florida, offering a range of scenic flights, discovery training, and amphibious aircraft experiences across Lake County. The company runs scheduled and private experiences that include wildlife and aerial sightseeing, guided kayak connections, bar hop landings, and hands-on discovery flights.
Pilots and guests can choose flights in multiple aircraft types listed in service, including Cessna 172 float planes, Cessna 185 and 206 amphibian aircraft, and SeaRey amphibian models. Instructional offerings include a Single Engine Seaplane (SES) rating package with ground school and up to five hours of dual flight in a Cessna 172 float plane, plus FAA-certified instructor–guided discovery flights for those who want hands-on flying experience.
Highlighted scenic routes use nearby waterways and points of interest such as the Harris Chain of Lakes, Dora Canal, and Lake Apopka, with aerial views of Orlando-area theme parks available on select tours. Jones Brothers & Co lists specialized experiences including a Gator Tour, Fly Out / Paddle In trips, Seaplane Bar Hop stops, and hourly dual instruction options. Booking, aircraft selection, and availability are managed through the company’s reservation process. Guests seeking seaplane sightseeing, amphibian flight training, or unique water-landing experiences can find relevant flights and instructional packages offered from the Tavares base.
Base Location
Tavares, FL
Located in Lake County, Florida
Aircraft Types
Cessna 172, 185, 206, SeaRey
Float and amphibian seaplanes
Tours Offered
10
Scenic, training, and specialty flights
Instructor-Led
FAA-Certified Instructor
Discovery flights with FAA guidance
Check availability for scenic tours, discovery flights, or rating packages and secure a seat for a Lake County seaplane experience.
Check Weather Conditions Before Flight
Lake and wind conditions greatly affect seaplane flying – ensure calm winds and good visibility before your lesson.
Wear Comfortable, Non-Restrictive Clothing
Dress in layers and avoid bulky clothes to help you move easily during flight training.
Bring Sunglasses and Sunscreen
Protect your eyes and skin from glare and UV exposure while flying over water.
Arrive Early to Complete Pre-Flight Briefings
Allow extra time for ground school sessions and safety briefings to maximize your learning experience.
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare from water and improves visibility while flying.
summer
Light Windbreaker
Protects against cool breezes on early morning or late afternoon flights.
spring
Comfortable Shoes with Grip
Ensures safe footing on docks and when boarding the float plane.
Water Bottle
Helps you stay hydrated throughout training sessions in the Florida heat.
summer