Welcome to SailTime Miami
Hello and Welcome Aboard SailTime Miami’s web page!!
My wife Karen and I are excited to be here in Coconut Grove, FL on beautiful Biscayne Bay. We are the Base Managers and Owners, and would love to introduce you to our favorite activity – Boating,- Sail and Power. I learned to sail pre-high school and have been on the water ever since as a sport, boat owner, and 100 ton master. I met Karen 30 years ago on my boat, a C&C 39. And now I’m an ASA instructor and Base owner.
Whether you enjoy a relaxing cruise to Key Biscayne State Park, a weekend sail to Key Largo, or pulling up to a Miami River restaurant, SailTime is a great way to pursue your boating dreams without all the hassles of boat ownership. No matter If you are a new or seasoned boater, SAILTIME WELCOMES YOU.
As your local SailTime base, we are part of a network of 50+ SailTime locations. Miami is one of the top boating destinations in the USA, with the Bay and the Florida Keys and nearby Bahamas in our back yard.
Our Base has both Sail and Power yachts. We are located at Dinner Key Marina, just a short walk from downtown Coconut Grove, famous for its shopping and restaurants. Our Power Yachts require a Captain on board, as do our larger Sail Boats.
With a SailTime fractional membership, you become a member by paying a one-time joining/training fee, plus monthly membership fees. This covers everything except your own food and drinks. If you need to leave the program for whatever reason, your payments end. You’re not stuck with a boat to sell or a long term financial commitment. You choose the boat you want, how often, and when you want to go sailing.
We offer both Captained and Bareboat Charters as well on boats ranging from 33 foot to 50 foot.
Our goal is to make boating accessible and worry-free on a well maintained, upgraded yacht near where you live, work and play…
Our programs provide access to the lifestyle that you and you family deserve. It is the financially intelligent way to experience what the yachting life has to offer. Leave the hard work of boat maintenance to us and WE’LL LEAVE THE ENJOYMENT OF BOATING TO YOU..
We also offer ASA-certified Training for sail and powerboating and fun-filled social events, such as moonlight sails, member parties and flotilla trips. We provide Captained Charters, Bareboat Charters and Team Building Events. For more experienced boaters, Bimini, Freeport, the Abaco’s and Key West are tempting destinations from our Coconut Grove home and make for a great family vacation.
We hope you will join us for some boating adventures
-Capt. Jim Brinckerhoff
Miami Gives Sailing Seminars at Strictly Sail Show
We were pleased and proud to be selected by American Sailing Association to be one of three boats and instructors to provide on-the-water, 2 hour short seminars on Introduction to Sailing, and Coastal Cruising during the 2011 Strictly Sail-Miami Boat Show.
Our instructors provided trips for tsix interested parties three times a day during the five days of the show. ASA personnel did a phenomal job of arranging and coordinating the registrants for this first-time exercise at the Miami Strictly Sail Show. We hope it is not the last.
Miami is proud to be an ASA school, and provide instruction for safe boating and cruising skills on the pristine waters of Miami's Biscayne Bay and down to the Keys.
Miami Sailing Lessons at Our ASA Sailing School
We offer several ASA courses, including week-long live-aboard courses. Classes are taught by our experienced and professional instructors aboard new, well-equipped SailTime vessels with comfortable amenities. You can choose sailing courses from Basic to Advanced which can be scheduled to meet your busy lifestyle. Student enrollment is kept low to maximize one-on-one time with the instructor and private instruction is also available. Week-long "Cruise N learn" vacation courses feature hands-on experience in a live-aboard setting, cruising the Florida Keys or Bahamas. These courses are available to the general public as well as SailTime members. Sign up to become a SailTime member first and you can save with significant discounts off ASA courses.
SCHEDULE
Classes are not regularly scheduled, but instead are booked according to student availability. Give us a call and together we can work out class dates that work best for you.
LOCATION
Our fleet is located in the heart of Miami's colorful "Coconut Grove" on beautiful Biscayne Bay, gateway to the Florida Keys and Bahamas. Nearby, you'll find plenty of great restaurants and upscale lodging while enjoying near-perfect sailing conditions year round.
DESCRIPTION
The course prices listed below are for non-SailTime members. Sign up to be a SailTime member prior to taking the courses, and receive $75 off each students tuition. SailTime members enjoy significant discounts off additional ASA courses and gain hands-on experience, while learning on your SailTime yacht! Here is a brief description of the instruction offered; classes are booked according to student demand. So just give us a call today to schedule your class. New to sailing? Want to experience a few hours on the water before commitiing to a class? Ask about our 3-hour captained cruises, where we take out prospective sailors for a small taste of the sailing life.
ASA 101 Basic Keelboat
2 day course taught aboard a Hunter 33 $675/student, $1200/couple
Sleep aboard option: $75.00 per night
In this course, students will learn:
-Basic sailing terminology
-Knot tying
-Responsibilities of both skipper and crew
-Federal Requirements
-Safe Fueling procedures
-Marine Environmental Laws
-Basic Sailing Skills: tacking, jibing, docking
-Proper Sail Trim
-Points of Sail
-VHF Radio procedures
This course consists of two days of sail training on the tranquil waters of beautiful Biscayne Bay. (A "sleep aboard option" is available for an additional fee) The first day will be spent sailing on beautiful Biscayne Bay, from 9:00AM to 5:00 PM. Pack a picnic lunch, snacks and plenty of liquids, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, light jacket, and boat shoes. The next day depart for another day of sailing and docking practice, returning to the dock in the early afternoon for a pre-test review and the written ASA exam. Private Instruction is also available for couples or families, minimum of two students. Bring the kids along for an additional $150.00 per person.
ASA 103 Coastal Cruising
Two day course taught aboard a Hunter 36 $800/student, $1500/couple
This intermediate level course is designed to increase your cruising confidence.
In this course, students will learn:
-Rules of the Road
-Essential Safety Equipment
-Engine Operation and Troubleshooting
-Anchoring
-Basic navigation
-Chart Symbols
-Aids to Navigation
-Heavy Weather and Reefing Systems
-Use of Marine Electronics
-Man-Overboard Recovery
-Deck Safety
-Running Aground and other Nuisances
-Sailing a Compass Course
Prerequisite: ASA 101 Basic Keelboat.
This 2 day course begins the first day at 9am. Meet your ASA instructor and fellow students at our office for some dockside instruction and docking practice. Then stow your gear and shove off for adventure in the Florida Keys. Practice your sailing and navigating skills before dropping anchor at No Name Harbor at the beautiful Bill Baggs State Park on Key Biscayne. Get up early the next morning and enjoy a leisurely sail back up Biscayne Bay, and arrive back at Dinner Key Marina to take your exam. Private Instruction is also available for couples or families.
ASA 104 Bareboat Charter
Three Day Course taught aboard a Hunter 36 $900 per person, $1700/couple
This advanced level course will help you achieve the skills necessary to begin chartering or skippering yachts on your own. This course builds upon the skills learned in ASA 101 and 103 with emphasis on onboard boat systems.
In this course, students will learn about:
-Boat Systems: Head, Electrical, Engine, Navigation, Sails
-Galley Procedures
-Weather
-Float Plan
-Dead Reckoning
-Problem Solving
-Towing a Dinghy
-Propeller Forces
-Etiquette
-Cruising Checklists
Prerequisite: ASA 101 Basic Keelboat and ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising.
This 3 day, 2 night course starts at noon the first day and runs through the evening of the third day, and includes two nights sleep aboard and anchoring out overnight in the Florida Keys. The itinerary varies depending on weather and tides but includes sailing south on Biscayne Bay on the inside of the Keys; and back up to Miami offshore on the Atlantic Ocean following the navigation markers of Hawk's Channel. Private Instruction is also available for couples or families.
ASA 103/104 Cruise N' Learn Vacation
FLORIDA KEYS AND BACK Taught aboard a Hunter 36 5 Day Course for $1700/person $3000/couple based on double occupancy per cabin
One or more levels of ASA instruction can be combined into one week-long vacation course, cruising to the Florida Keys, Miami to Key Largo and back. Sail down Biscayne Bay and hone your navigation skills, threading your way through the many channels and reefs. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and camaraderie of "Happy Hour" at one of the local Keys tiki bars and sample the excellent fresh local seafood. This 5 day course starts the first day at 3 pm; with the first night spent at the dock getting acquainted with the boat. The next day depart for the Florida Keys; with alternating anchoring out and optional marina stops for fun going ashore. Your instructor will call you to go over what to bring and to answer any other questions you may have. Included with the course are Hunter 36 or larger boat, instructor, meals onboard, ASA materials and certification fee. Transient dockage fees, if any, are shared by the students.
ASA 118 Docking Endorsement
This 1 day course is designed to teach basic docking skills for boats with inboard engines. It covers the basic theory and hands-on techniques needed to dock and undock boats in an efficient manner and without damage or injury.
Course Content: After reviewing study materials prior, students will spend an entire day on the boat; first going though theory, then practicing what they learn. Topics to be covered include forces that act on the boat, engine and rudder control, properly securing mooring lines, spring lines, safety, and crew responsibilities.
Prerequisite: None
Give us a call today!
877 SAILTIME
Dinner Key Marina
SailTime Miami's sailboat fleet is kept at Dinner Key marina, in the heart of Coconut Grove. The 582 slip marina (Florida’s largest marine facility) provides modern comfortable berthing accommodations in a park-like setting to transient, seasonal, long-term, and liveaboard boaters. The marina is operated by the City of Miami and has terrific amenities, including shower facilities, ample parking, and 24 hour security.
Dinner Key served as a base for Pan American World Airways's flying boats during the 1930s and 1940s. At the time it was one of the world's largest airports and the main hub for air traffic between North and South America. After the technological advances of World War II and the construction of suitable airports in South America made seaplanes largely obsolete, Pan Am transferred its operations to Miami International Airport. The original Pan Am terminal building (next door to Dinner Key Marina) now serves as Miami City Hall.
Dinner Key is served by the Miami Metrorail at the Douglas Road Station and the Coconut Grove Station.
Local Attractions for Sailors
Biscayne National Park
Within sight of downtown Miami, yet worlds away, Biscayne protects a rare combination of aquamarine waters, emerald islands, and fish-bejeweled coral reefs. Here too is evidence of 10,000 years of human history, from pirates and shipwrecks to pineapple farmers and presidents. Outdoors enthusiasts can boat, snorkel, camp, watch wildlife…or simply relax in a rocking chair gazing out over the bay.
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
Sailing Coconut Grove
The Grove is best known for its quietly breathtaking natural beauty, a lush green landscape bordered by the shimmering blue waters of Biscayne Bay. From its beginnings in the late 1800’s, this magical place has attracted tycoons, artists, writers, and musicians galore, and—truth be told—more than its share of kooks, eccentrics, and free spirits. Today the The Grove is known for terriffic shopping, including the CocoWalk, and a lively nightlife.
Boca Chita
SailTime Miami is proud to now offer an ever growing fleet of boats for charter. Whether it's sail or power; just an afternoon, or a couple of days of cruising, we can put together a great trip for you.
Please call or email for pricing.
The SailTime Miami Captained Charter Fleet
(boats require a professional Captain)
Sweet Spot - Oceanis 50
Following the introduction of the Oceanis 58, the new Oceanis 50 features the same sleek coach roof, long side windows, fully integrated mainsail arch, and detailed design to make the most of her generous space. The Oceanis 50 showcases an enriched interior that feels even more contemporary and open.
Access to the saloon is by a gently sloping companionway stair made possible by the deck mounted arch which keeps the mainsheet clear of the cockpit. To port is a truly home-sized galley with high, deep cabinets, a multitude of drawers and plenty of storage. Forward, the splendid owner’s cabin offers magnificent dressing and sleep space. The design is luxurious and contemporary.
You may charter this gorgeous craft with Captain only, for half-days, full days, 3 days, a week or more for up to four weeks. SailTime Miami can make it happen for you for less than you imagine. E-mail us for rates and dates.
For more information on the Beneteau Oceanis 50, see the review on Beneteau's website.
Imagine
Imagine yourself and up to 7 guests lounging about the cockpit and on the padded bow settee, taking in the rays, enjoying the skyline and looking for the dolphins riding the bow wave. Then you can retire to the salon area for appetizers or an offshore lunch.
Better yet, Imagine a quiet, romantic candle light dinner cruise for two.
Captain Alan and his wife, Martha , will see to your every wish, insuring a memorable cruise for all aboard
Cloud Nine
“Cloud Nine” is a 1983 forty four foot Island Gypsy sundeck trawler that is available for charter. She can comfortably seat 6-10 people for half day cruises, day cruises, luncheon cruises, sunset cruises and corporate outings. Cloud Nine has been remodeled to today’s standards and is an extremely comfortable vessel with plenty of outdoor space. She is also available for 3-4 day charters to the Bahamas and the Keys.
Are you thinking of buying a boat but don’t have the experience of piloting one? Does docking a boat make you nervous? Charter Cloud Nine along with SailTimes experienced “teaching” captain and learn to dock and/or pilot your own boat. Teaching sessions can be half day to two or three days depending on the level of experience you’re looking to achieve.
The SailTime Miami Bareboat Charter fleet
Pelusa
This Hunter 33 is great for day sails up to a week's charter. Available as bareboat charter, as well as Captained (if you desire), Pelusa is compact and rigged for single-handing, yet spacious enough for two couples. Two private staterooms (fore and aft) with enclosed head with shower and lavatory; fully equipped galley with LP two burner cooktop and oven, microwave (AC only) and DC refrigeration. All the cooking and serving utensils needed.
Roller furling main and jib, auto helm at the wheel, all the electronics to support short or extended trips. A recent charter took an experienced sailing family to Marathon Key and back in six days. Pelusa is ready to take you where your fancy leads.
E-mail or call for rates and availability. Bareboat skippers must complete an thorough sailing resume and experience form. Cruising range depends on your experience and/or Certifications.
Summer Breeze or Wind Chime
Our Hunter 36's are great for day sails up to three week's charter. Available as bareboat charter, as well as Captained (if you desire), these powerful 36 foot boats are stable, secure and spacious enough for two couples plus children. Two private staterooms (fore and aft) with enclosed electric heads with separate showers and lavatory; fully equipped galley with LP two burner cooktop and oven, microwave (AC only) and DC refrigeration. All the cooking and serving utensils needed.
Roller furling main and jib, auto helm at the wheel, all the electronics to support short or extended trips. When we give our Coastal Cruising and Bareboat Charter instruction, we use one of these two beauties.
E-mail or call for rates and availability. Bareboat skippers must complete an thorough sailing resume and experience form. Cruising range depends on your experience and/or Certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Miami Forecast
Cloudy with a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Lows in the mid 70s. Light winds.