Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen DeLeon.
Karen, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Windsurfing was a hobby for us that became a business opportunity. While enjoying sailing on the beach, we learned that the business was for sale. I went from being a licensed mental health counselor to running a water sports business (quite funny since I do have a slight fear of water). We added kayaking and, more recently stand up paddle boarding in order to have light wind choices. I can say without reservation that I love what we do–getting folks of all ages out on the water, making great memories and connecting with nature.
Has it been a smooth road?
Our biggest challenge is the weather. The need to adapt to each day’s unique weather pattern forces us to remain flexible in all areas. We need to financially prepare for down time as well. Obviously, hurricanes can shut us down for several days (once for an entire month).
We’d love to hear more about your business.
“Learn to Windsurf in 2 Hours–Guaranteed!” has been our slogan since 1982. Our cove of the bay is perfect for beginners on any non-motorized water sport gear to safely and comfortably get up on the water without concern of rip currents, breaking waves, or motorized water craft. We have been rated the #1 location in the continental U.S. to learn to windsurf.
We also have the beauty of Vizcaya’s Italian Renaissance Villa and hidden mangrove estuary within a half hour kayak journey plus the Twin Sisters Sandbar. These are two of my favorite locations to commune with nature (without having to drive to mosquito ridden Everglades!).
Stand up paddle boards are also a great addition to our fleet allowing for a good workout while enjoying the beauty of the bay.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Miami is a tough city to start out in. Between regulations, insurance, and the cost of rent, I am hard pressed to recommend starting from scratch. Purchasing an existing water sports concession would probably be easier. Unfortunately, Miami-Dade County is challenged when it comes to water access.
Pricing:
- Learn to Windsurf in 2 Hours–Guaranteed! $85.00
- Stand Up Paddle Board with Beginner’s Overview $30/first hour
- Stable Sit-On-Top Kayaks Singles $20/hour Doubles $30/hour
Contact Info:
- Address: Rickenbacker Causeway Mile Marker 6.5
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
(for navigational software, input “Sailboards Miami”) - Website: www.sailboardsmiami.com
- Phone: 305-892-8992
- Email: sailboardsmiami@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sailboardsmiamiwatersports/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SailboardsMiamiWaterSports/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sailboardsmiami
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/sailboards-miami-miami-2
- Other: https://plus.google.com/u/2/100027339746103085740
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
