What happened
The pilot of a float-equipped airplane performed a series of circles over the area to evaluate local water conditions prior to landing. Upon determining it was safe, the pilot executed a water landing.
While the initial touchdown occurred in relatively calm conditions, the aircraft almost immediately encountered a large wave or swell that had not been visible from the air. This impact momentarily launched the aircraft back into the air. In response, the pilot applied full power in an attempt to execute a go-around. However, because the aircraft had already decelerated to a speed insufficient to maintain flight, it dropped back onto the water's surface. The force of this second impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft structure.