Accident Overview
A float-equipped airplane experienced a hard landing during a water landing. The pilot reported misreading the size of the swell, which led to a tail low hard landing after touchdown. The aircraft then jumped a swell, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage.
Sequence of Events
The pilot was conducting a water landing in a float-equipped airplane. During the approach, he assessed the water conditions but misread the size of the swell. Upon touchdown, the airplane encountered a swell that caused the aircraft to become airborne again. Immediately after the initial touchdown, the airplane jumped the swell and subsequently made a hard landing with the tail low.
Pilot Report
In his report, the pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He indicated that the airplane was in normal operating condition prior to the accident.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage. No other damage was reported. The pilot did not mention any injuries or other damage.