Dear Cleared
I thought you might like to hear from someone who just got into the hobby.  I just solo'd this summer so I am a ROOKIE.  I spent countless hours on my G4.5 simulator  last winter, as I am working in Northern Canada.  Of course I tried some water takeoffs and landings on the simulator.  Not Pretty.  I did  approx. 20 flights with my Instructor before I solo'd.  I can guarantee that without my instructor at my side, and taking control numerous times, I would have a pile of sticks and electronics.  As it is, I still have an intact Nexstar to fly.

Good Luck!