Jack Browns Seaplane Base-F57 — Local services in Winter Haven

I began my Private Pilot training more than ten years ago. During that time I often heard about Jack Brown’s Seaplane Base, considered by many to be the most legendary place in the United States to earn the Airplane Single Engine Sea rating. This past Thursday and Friday I finally had the opportunity to fulfill that dream by adding the rating to my Commercial Pilot certificate.

The experience began with a phone call to Pat, who asked which aircraft I would prefer: the Cessna 172 or the Piper Super Cub. When I explained that nearly all of my flight time was in 172s, she encouraged me to choose the Super Cub. I took her advice, and I am glad I did. Flying an aircraft that was completely new to me heightened my senses and demanded my full attention, which created the perfect learning environment.

My assigned instructor was Richele, and the training could not have been more rewarding. While it is clear that every CFI at Jack Brown’s is outstanding, Richele distinguished herself by creating a learning experience that combined technical instruction with real-world applications. She consistently emphasized risk management scenarios and aeronautical decision-making, which ensured that I left not only capable of flying the maneuvers but also a stronger and more thoughtful pilot overall.

In just two days, three flights, and 5.3 hours of dual instruction in the Super Cub, Richele brought me fully up to ACS standards and ready for the practical test. My checkride was conducted on site by DPE Benjamin. Although my nerves were high at the start, his calm communication and supportive personality allowed me to focus on the task at hand. I was able to apply everything I had been taught and successfully pass the checkride.

This accomplishment is especially meaningful because I had dreamed of training at Jack Brown’s for years. From the moment I arrived, I felt the culture of support and passion for aviation that defines the school. Everyone there is genuinely dedicated to student success and it shows in every interaction.

I look forward to sharing this experience with others because the ASES rating is about much more than just a certificate. Even for those who may never fly seaplanes professionally, the training strengthens airmanship, broadens perspective, and provides an unforgettable aviation experience.

To everyone at Jack Brown’s Seaplane Base, thank you for your professionalism, knowledge, and hospitality. I wish you continued success and I look forward to returning one day to fly the de Havilland Beaver and take my...

My 15 year old son had a sea plane flight today with Pilot instructor Sean. The location was easy to find and staff very friendly and accommodating. Our pilot was very enthusiastic and talked with my son extensively about all of the preflight checks and details of the sea plane Piper Cub Legend and took him on an hour ride around the area and performing landings and take offs on several of the area lakes. Controlling the plane from the rear and letting my son sit up front- Sean allowed him to handle (shadow) some of the controls while in flight and also taxi across the lake and then took the time to fill out his log book afterward. It was not only fun but very informative for someone interested in the aviation field as a career. We felt very confident the moment we met Sean, that our son was in good hands and he delivered an experience my son talked about the whole ride home. Now in addition to working on his private pilots license before he graduates high school my son is convinced he wants to get his sea plane rating as well. My brother had gotten this as a Christmas gift for my son since he had been to Jack Brown’s a while back himself and had such a great experience and we couldn’t agree more. It was an excellent gift for a young man interested in flying or anyone who loves airplanes. The facility’s are nice and deck chairs comfy while we waited for him to return and we even got to meet one of the residents (see photos) while we waited. We will definitely be back! You can tell this is a well run well cared for top notch operation with a commitment to aviation excellence, fun and safety and everyone from the lady at the front desk, our pilot, Sean, to the young lady helping fuel the airplane made our day with their...

Just completed my seaplane rating at Jack Browns and it was 5 star.

When I arrived at 7am, everything was organised and planned, (unlike a lot of schools) A bit of paperwork, a quick tour and then we went into a thorough, quality briefing on seaplane operations before commencing flying in the Piper J3 Cub by 11am.

The flying training was excellent, particularly as you are getting many takeoffs and landings as circuits are flown at low level into a variety of lakes. The basics of safe seaplane ops were drummed into you.

Jon Brown, the owner carried out my checkride and it was again organised, thorough and very professional.

I have to say they run a slick operation and I would recommend the school to anybody who fancies doing a seaplane rating to add to their private or commercial...