Do YOU see a regular influx of new sailors in YOUR club/group/whatever? Not regionally nor nationally, but in YOUR club.
No, we are getting sailors from other classes.
My experience with the "introduce the public to sailing" is pretty much like IndyWave's.
I did an event with the Washington Ski club. After 5 hours of giving sailboat rides and hearing... "thanks... I always wanted to experience a catamaran ride" I was done!
Studies have shown that a person needs to go sailing about three times before they can get hooked on it. IMO, the beach resorts and the learn to sail buisness are the best way to do this. They make the public make a commitment of some time and money to give it a go.
Community sailing programs are another good solution. To me, the key is that you sign up and pay for a 6 or 8 week course. Many YC in my area have programs like IndyWave's. I hope they work out.
