You can rent sailboats and catamarans through the beachfront concessions desk of several top resorts, such as the Doral Golf Resort and Spa.
Sailboats of Key Biscayne Rentals and Sailing School, in the Crandon Marina (next to Sundays on the Bay), 4000 Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne (tel. 305/361-0328 days, 305/279-7424 evenings), can also get you out on the water. A 22-foot sailboat rents for $35 an hour or $110 for a half-day and $175 for a full day. A Cat-25 or J24 is available for $35 an hour, $110 for a half-day, and $175 for a full day. If you've always had a dream to win the America's Cup but can't sail, the able teachers at Sailboats will get you started. They offer a 10-hour course over 5 days for $300 for one person or $400 for you and a buddy.
Shake-a-Leg, 2620 S. Bayshore Dr., Coconut Grove (tel. 305/858-5550; www.shakealegmiami.org), is a membership-only sailing and boating organization that caters to the physically challenged by offering unique sailing programs specifically designed for those with physical disabilities. The program offers instructional lessons on kayaking and sailing and features certified instructors who will work with students as they develop boating skills at their own pace. Shake-a-Leg members also welcome nondisabled volunteers for activities on and off the water. Rental prices to members only range from $50 to $1,200. Open 7 days a week from 9am to 5pm.
