Floatplane = Seaplane ... as far as I am concerned.
Flying boat (hulled aircraft) = Seaplane
After all .... the rating is SEP (Sea) ... a Seaplane rating - which qualifies you (after any differences training) to fly any Seaplane.
I variously refer to my trusty 172 on floats as a floatplane/seaplane
But I wouldn't call a Lake or Catalina a Floatplane ..... as they don't have floats
I did my float rating at Caledonian Seaplanes - and had a fantastic time
can thoroughly recommend it. PM me if you want any more details .. or if you're interested in shares in a 172 amphibian !!
Sure the weather can be problematic, but there's lots to do in the surrounding area in case it's too windy.
It's the most fun with 2 wings on as far is I'm concerned. Flying through the mountains and stunning Scottish magnificence, landing on a deserted loch, taxiing ashore, tieing up to a tree, then walking 5 mins to a 4 star hotel for lunch/breakfast
Jump in !!