Seaplane or Amphibian
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Flight Instructor
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 30; Flight Crew Total 15000; Flight Crew Type 5000
Situational Awareness; Training / Qualification
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Inflight Shutdown; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition
Aircraft
Departed at XA:30 PM from an inlet to a seaplane base where we were scheduled to clear customs at XC:45. Enroute the engine quit with no warning at about XC:40. The sounds suggested a restart attempt would not be advisable. The sea conditions were 2.5 to 4.0 feet. The landing into the wind; while rough was uneventful. We were flying below class C airspace at 800 feet MSL monitoring the frequency. When the engine quit I called ATC and requested immediate assistance prior to our landing. I was not sure we would be able to remain upright based on the observed water conditions. Very fortunately the aircraft remained floating and withstood the rough swell conditions well. We were able to remain in radio communication with approach. They contacted local emergency response and vessel assist. They asked for assistance from two local pilots transiting the class C to circle and keep an eye on us. We appreciated their willingness to help!We put on life vests and sailed the aircraft using flaps; doors and the air rudder toward a low bank beach. We could see a large response team with flashing lights near the beach we were aiming at. I was on the phone with all of the potential response agencies. [I recently received a] membership gift of an auxiliary cell phone charger [that] came in super handy! Vessel assist was dispatched. The 4 to 8 foot swelly water conditions prevented vessel X assist from reaching us. Vessel Y assist reached us about XE:30 about a mile off shore. They did a fantastic job in adverse circumstances and conditions. Float planes tow very differently from boats. Sunset happened at XE:40. We opted to stay with the aircraft while it was towed to a marina 15 miles away.It can happen to you. My extensive experience with this particular aircraft never hinted to this outcome. Bring food; water; a good flashlight; more extra line and warm clothes. Fly at an altitude that allows for conditions; time and options. My habits will be forever changed.
The seaplane pilot experienced an engine failure near NUW; landed safely in rough water; and was towed to port.