Thought I'd share some helpful information for any seaplane pilots flying to Florida this winter.

If you haven't already heard the City of Tavares has opened a new seaplane base on Lake Dora. (www.airnav.com/airport/FA1) The seaplane base is located about 35 miles NW of the City of Orlando and is on the very SE edge of the Class D airspace of Leesburg International Airport (KLEE). The Lake is large enough to accommodate nearly any seaplane that will be making it's way to or living in Florida. The Base itself is also a Marina and offers both 100ll on the Dock and Shore. For Auto gas burners they also have Ethanol Free MOgas on the dock and shore.

There is also an amphib ramp so if you're in one you don't even have to get your feet wet! There is limited parking so if you can give the marina a call ahead of time and they'll reserve you a spot if possible. The phone number to the marina is 352 742 6267. The unicom freq is 122.975. This is the correct freq despite what the sectional chart says. Overnight parking is also allowed either on the beach or ramp.

If you decide to come for lunch there are many places that are literally in view of the amphib ramp. AL's Landing has the best view, O'keef's Pub and Ruby Street Grill also have a view. There is also a breakfast spot "The Copper Heron" and soon there will be a BBQ and Breakfast Place that is right next to AL's. In addition to these there are several great deli's and restaurants within a 3minute walk.

For Overnight stays the Duncan House Bed and Breakfast (www.theduncanhouse.com) is within walking distance (5min) and there are also traditional hotels near by. There is also a local company that offers Golf Cart Rental for overnighting pilots at a very good price. It's legal to drive Golf Carts on the downtown roads.

I'm the Seaplane Operator, Jones Brothers Seaplanes and MESrating) here doing both rides and training (ASES, AMES, Private to ATP). Stop by and say hello if you're here! It's always fun to meet and visit with fellow pilots. I have a small supply of floatplane equipment here like Exhaust Gas Cleaner, Float Pumps, Plexi Cleaner, Float Plugs, Handling Ropes and dock bumpers. Just the basics.

Hope to see you all soon!!

Eric
www.jonesairandsea.com
www.mesrating.com

Holy crap that pic was hard to post!

Ok, I was just there with my 182 and had a great time. Really nice facilities and the people running everything were most efficent. The docking is very easy with lots of options for wind. There is even some spots to beach if you need too. We did some nice glassy landings on nearby lakes.
I stayed at very close bed and breakfast it was nice and the local bars and food were good.
And that crazy golf cart was my rental land transportation.

Stop in support the place and maybe we get some other town's to take notice of the value in these facilities.