Melissa KiteMermaid
Head Instructor & Owner of South Florida Kiteboarding
Melissa is a 100-ton licensed boat captain and an IKO Level 3 certified kiteboarding instructor. She took over South Florida Kiteboarding in 2014 and has since transformed it into a 5-Star, boat operated kiteboarding school known for its safety, professionalism, and exclusive on water experience.
Fluent in English and Spanish, Melissa is one of the few women in the world to own and operate a kiteboarding school. She’s known for her patience, friendly approach, and motivating energy, inspiring students through the same passion that changed her own life.
Pablo
Pablo has been part of the South Florida Kiteboarding team for 4 years. He’s known for his patience, kindness, and clear communication both in English and Spanish. Whether teaching first-time riders or helping students refine their skills, Pablo creates a calm, supportive learning environment that makes progress feel easy and fun.
Jonathan
Jonathan is energetic and experienced. Has a very positive and happy vibe!
He is taught in Key West, La Ventana, and Charleston. IKO certified, Jonathan is known for creating a safe, supportive, and confidence-building learning experience. English-speaking.
A great fit for students of all levels looking for clear instruction, patience, and stoke on the water.
James
James is one of our most experienced and dynamic instructors, bringing over 8 years of teaching experience and IKO certification to the team.
He began his professional kiteboarding career in Hawaii, mastering the sport in some of the world’s most demanding conditions. His passion, precision, and unmatched energy have made him a 5-star instructor and an inspiration to both students and peers.
In the water, James is known for his calm control, quick intuition, and what many describe as his “superhero mode” effortlessly guiding students through every challenge. He’s truly an amazing instructor who transforms every lesson into a memorable and empowering experience.
Bobby
Bobby has been coaching kitesurfing since 2012. With over a decade of experience, he brings a deep passion for sharing learning moments and real on-the-water experiences with his students. His lessons combine dynamic, hands-on techniques drawn from professional kiteboarding programs such as IKO and PASA, all delivered with humor, patience, and clear communication. Bobby thrives on building genuine connections with his students and guiding them toward confidence and progress in their kitesurfing journey.
Axel
Axel is a highly skilled, IKO-certified instructor known for his methodical approach, patience, and deep technical knowledge. He also has specialized in working with kids and in coaching advanced tricks, making him a fantastic fit for both beginners and progressing riders. Calm, balanced, and reliable, Axel creates a safe and encouraging learning environment for every student.
He teaches in French and English.
Marina
IKO certified and licensed boat captain, she has taught in places like Sicily and Miami Beach. Marina is very patient with a lot of experience in kiteboarding.
She speaks fluent English, Russian, Italian and German.
Living in Miami, Marina is also the owner of Platinum Sun.
