A series of 1/5th scale models were used to develop the design over a three-year period, with construction of a full-size machine beginning in 1997.

To accommodate the propeller, the rear fuselage is cut down with an indented vee shaped upper profile, which blends smoothly into a V-tail.

The straight, mid-mounted wings attach to the hull behind the cabin and underneath the engine, and are removable for land transport.

Downturned wingtips are faired into the stabilising floats on the Shearwater Seaflight along with the typical "boat hull" most amphibians use.

Differences between the 201 and the original model, or any amphibian, include the proposed use of a "hydroski" (a hydrofoil used to takeoff and land the aircraft in water) instead of a boat hull design.