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What it's like to fly in a Seaplane

Pybus Point Lodge Logo

01 - THE HISTORY OF FLOATPLANES

In 1911, floats were first attached to the fuselage of seaplanes. These early floatplanes were able to land and take off from the water, and were quickly utilized in both world wars for reconnaissance, bombing runs and air-sea rescue. The same characteristics that made them ideal for wartime were easily adapted for exploration of secluded lakes and bays later on. Today they allow experienced bush pilots to indulge adventurous spirits and connect people in isolated areas with much-needed supplies.

A short video describing the history of seaplanes

02 - PARTS OF A SEAPLANE

If you’ve ever been curious about how seaplanes are different than traditional propeller, planes, check out our illustration below that list out the major components and cool features.

03 - SEAPLANE SAFETY

We want you to be comfortable flying in a floatplane, since it’s a new experience for many of our guests. All flights are checked against expected weather patterns to maintain the safest conditions possible. Pilots receive rigorous training and have years of flight experience prior to piloting a floatplane.

View of the cockpit of a DeHavilland Beaver DHC-2
Inside the Turbine Otter. This plane can carry up to 10 passengers.

Our guests fly in floatplanes that adhere to the highest FAA Aircraft Maintenance Standards, and flights always undergo a checklist of FAA regulations before takeoff. Our Beaver floatplane in particular is often called the workhorse of the air, and it’s listed as one of Canada’s greatest engineering achievements. It was designed specifically with harsh northern conditions in mind, making it perfect for travel in Alaska.

04 - WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR FLIGHT

The details of your flight will be taken care of ahead of time. We’ll let you know where to meet our pilots after you arrive in Juneau, and he’ll drive you a few short minutes to the plane.

Sample shuttle ride from the Juneau International Airport to the Float Plane Pond.

Since floatplanes are sensitive to weight, be sure to pack light. The pilot also needs to know your weight before you board in order to balance the aircraft. He will give you some quick safety information, along with a pair of earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. The plane is heated, but you’ll most likely want to bring a light jacket as well to stay comfortable.

Floatplane Pond at Juneau Inernational Airport

Takeoff and landing tend to be pretty smooth, though you might feel light turbulence once you’re in the air. You can rest assured, the floatplane is very safe and our pilot has a lot of experience.

Unpacking bags at Pybus Point Lodge. Please consider packing light

Your safety is our top priority, so we occasionally bring guests to the lodge via our new boats when the weather is less then suitable for flying. The route is breathtaking by both floatplane and boat, so be sure to have your camera within reach! We also recommend that you purchase travel insurance to protect your trip investment from the unexpected.

05 - WHAT YOU’LL SEE

From the moment your plane leaves the water, you’ll be immersed in the rugged, majestic show that Alaska provides. You’ll see mountain islands covered with Sitka spruce and Western hemlock trees, along with patches of water mingled with lush muskeg.

View from side of seaplane landing on remote lake

Depending on your route, you may get to see Nugget Falls, and the massive icebergs floating out from the Taku, Mendenhall and Tracy Arm Glaciers. The deep blue of the ocean stretches out to the horizon, often dotted with icebergs and humpback whales. As you near the lodge, the towering snow-capped mountains at the back of Pybus Bay will come into view, and you’ll be able to see the many waterfalls that feed the cove.

Hopefully you’ll also find some of the bald eagles, bears, and seals that call this incredible place home. When you land in the bay, you’ll get a great view of the lodge before being welcomed onto the dock by our friendly staff.

06 - FLIGHT SEEING TOURS

The floatplane flight is a highlight for many of our guests. For those who want more time in the air, we have other opportunities for sightseeing by plane to take advantage of. Our floatplane is available to fly guests to scenic areas nearby, as well as remote, gorgeous fishing spots in pristine lakes and streams. It’s important to note that flights are dependent on weather and availability, so make sure to reserve spots early.

07 - CONCLUSION

Floatplanes are an incredible way to experience Alaska, and we’re thrilled to offer this as a part of our all-inclusive trips. Contact us today to get our best rates and reserve your trip before they sell out!

Various videos of flight seeing tours


Pybus Point Pro Tip: Protect Your Trip

Weather in Alaska can sometimes be problematic for traveling, especially to remote islands. There are unfortunately times when flights are grounded and it's not safe to fly due to weather. This can last for several hours or several days. Pybus Point Lodge recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. If you are interested in learning more, click here to learn more.

Alaska Packing List PDF
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REVIEWS

65% OF OUR GUESTS ARE RETURN CUSTOMERS

Discover why people like you can’t stop talking about Pybus Point Lodge. More than 30 years ago, the lodge opened as a simple fishing camp, drawing a devoted following in spite of basic accommodations. With new owners and experienced captains and crew, our corner of Alaska has become an unbeatable fishing and eco-tourism resort.

Andrea Tate

Incredible Experience!

Pybus Point Lodge has some of the most stunning scenery I’ve ever seen. I mean absolutely breathtaking! In addition to the amazing fishing, I hiked to a beautiful secluded lake, soaked in some hot pots, saw several waterfalls, went whale watching, saw bears and all kinds of wildlife and marine life. As a photographer, photographing a wedding under a waterfall will remain a highlight of my life.

Shirley Johnson

Pybus Point Lodge - WOW!

We had the best time! This was our first visit to Pybus, but it definitely will not be our last. The stunning scenery, amazing fishing experience, and the joy of meeting new friends – all outstanding! We did not want to leave!!! If you are thinking about this trip – don’t think any more, just book it. You will not regret it!!!

Sharon Hedding

Trip of a Lifetime!

We had such an amazing time the staff was so wonderful and the lodge was fantastic! capt Joe was so helpful and always doing what ever he could do to make each day special. a special thank you to both Scott and Jody for taking the time to make us feel like family. can't wait to go back next year

Jason Nielsen

Wonderful and Magical Place

We had an amazing business retreat to Pybus Point Lodge.  Everything was top notch... the fishing, the staff, the boat captains, the food, the accommodations, and especially the scenery. I really liked that Pybus took care of everything from start to finish. Chef John is an amazing cook. We had delicious hot meals the entire trip.  The cabins were amazing and very comfortable.  The fishing was awesome and that’s coming from a guy that doesn’t fish that much.

Brandon Foote

We brought home 100lbs of fish!

My wife and I spent a week at Pybus Point this Summer. We had a beautiful, private room overlooking the bay and our own new, ensuite, private bathroom. What an amazing place for couples to get away together. We set our own breakfast time, met our boat captain after, fished the day along, and returned to clean up and enjoy a nice dinner at the restaurant. Next time Alaska is on the trip list, Sherrie and I will go together, and it will be to Pybus Point!

Kent Danjanovich

Fun in Alaska

This was my first trip to Pybus Point. I stayed in one of their new cabins. The accommodations were incredible, the view onto the bay in the mornings was stunning. I loved the staff and the food was really very good. All of this and they have new boats to take you out onto fairly calm waters to fish. The fishing guides were great. Overall a great experience. Definitely going back.

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