Flightseeing at its finest - Hydravion Aventure

Since 2004, Hydravion Aventure has brought travelers, tourists, and outdoor explorers deep into the heart of Québec’s wilderness-one scenic flight at a time. Founded by Alain Priem, a former Mirage 2000 fighter pilot with more than 10,000 hours, the operation has always been rooted in a love for seaplane flying in remote, hard-to-reach places. In 2023, Priem expanded Hydravion’s capabilities with the addition of two Kodiak 100s on amphibious floats, elevating both the scale and reliability of the business.

Priem is joined by fellow air force pilot and now co-owner Fabric Bedu, whose experience and leadership have helped propel Hydravion forward. Rounding out the team is pilot-technician Sam Tardits, fluent in French and English-an essential asset for Québec’s tourism market, which includes many visitors from France. The team is supported by dedicated maintenance and reception crews at the company’s hydrobase in St-Étienne-des-Grès, located on the Saint-Maurice River near Trois-Rivières.

The Kodiak’s five-blade propellers produce significantly lower noise levels-77 dBa or less compared to the two- and three-blade props on piston aircraft traditionally used in the fleet. The result is a quieter cabin, easier passenger communication, and reduced fatigue for both guests and pilots. Inside, Hydravion equips every passenger with a headset for a more enjoyable and immersive flightseeing experience. “For us, it was a revelation,” says Bedu.

With IFR capability, a 165-knot cruise speed, and demonstrated crosswind and tailwind performance, the Kodiak 100 has expanded Hydravion’s range into more remote outposts and deeper stretches of wilderness-unlocking new products, new destinations, and more reliable year-round service. Concerns about parts availability were quickly put to rest, thanks to Daher’s online parts marketplace and responsive support. As Bedu concludes, the Kodiak has proven to be “an ideal choice” for Hydravion’s fast-paced commercial operations, maximizing efficiency and strengthening returns.

Hydravion operates 10 to 15 flights per day, with each Kodiak capable of flying up to eight 20-40-minute scenic trips depending on weather and daylight. Thanks to the Kodiak’s efficiency, the operation breaks even with just four passengers on board, keeping flights profitable while maintaining schedule flexibility. The aircraft’s low 48-knot stall speed allows Hydravion pilots to slip into tight spaces along the rivers and lakes that form Québec’s natural parks-opening up opportunities for beach landings, wilderness exploration, and seasonal camps. Bedu emphasizes the operational advantage of the PT6A engine: “The PT6 starts every time, whatever the conditions. You don’t have any warmup time, even when it's cold.” The carbon-fiber Aerocet floats also minimize leaks and eliminate the need for constant pumping-reducing turnaround time and maintenance effort.