Republic RC-3 Seabee Aircraft
2 used Republic RC-3 Seabee aircraft for sale · $141K – $200K · updated 31 min ago
About the Republic RC-3 Seabee
The Republic RC-3 Seabee is one of the most characterful classic amphibians ever built — a rugged post-war all-metal four-seater with a rear-mounted pusher engine and a true boat hull. Beloved for its go-anywhere water-and-land versatility and unmistakable looks, the Seabee is often re-engined for more power than its modest original Franklin. It rewards an owner who values classic amphibian character and will care for a boat-hull airframe.
Republic RC-3 Seabee Specifications
Model specThe Republic RC-3 Seabee is a amphibians with a cruise speed of 90 kt (167 km/h), a range of 490 nm (907 km).
2 Republic RC-3 Seabee For Sale
There are currently 2 used Republic RC-3 Seabee for sale, ranging from $141,401 to $200,000, with a median asking price of $170,700.
Compare Republic RC-3 Seabee
See how the Republic RC-3 Seabee stacks up against similar aircraft in specs, price, and operating costs.
Republic RC-3 Seabee Price & Cost
How much does a Republic RC-3 Seabee cost? Used RC-3 Seabee prices: $141K – $200K, average $170K (median $170K), across 2 priced of 2 active listings.
Based on 3 priced listings.
Key price factors: engine time to overhaul, year and airframe hours, avionics, damage history and logbook completeness — see the buying guide below for the full pre-purchase checklist.
Buying a Used Republic RC-3 Seabee
When buying a Republic RC-3 Seabee, the biggest value drivers are engine time since overhaul, maintenance-record completeness, damage history and avionics.
What to check before buying
- Engine time to overhaul — hours and years remaining drive price more than total airframe time.
- Logbook completeness — continuous, gap-free maintenance records protect value.
- Damage history — any prior accident or incident; cross-check the registration against accident databases.
- Avionics — a modern glass panel vs legacy steam gauges materially changes price.
- Pre-buy inspection — always commission an independent inspection by a type-experienced mechanic before money changes hands.
Frequently Asked Questions — Republic RC-3 Seabee
Cost?
Should I want a re-engined Seabee?
Seabee vs Lake amphibian?
Republic RC-3 Seabee Inventory by Country
| Canada | 2 |
| Switzerland | 1 |
Republic RC-3 Seabee by Price
| Under $200k | 1 |
| Under $300k | 3 |
| Under $500k | 3 |
Republic RC-3 Seabee Safety Record
Across all RC-3 Seabee variants, 1 NTSB-recorded events are on file from 1996–1996. As with any aircraft, most outcomes depend on pilot training, maintenance and operating conditions rather than the airframe itself.
Most Recent Events
| Date | Location | Severity | Probable Cause |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 25, 1996 | KETCHIKAN, AK | Fatal (2) | the airplane crashed for undetermined reason(s). |
NTSB records 1996–1996. Includes all Republic RC-3 Seabee variants. Events ≠ aircraft fault.