Hi all..
I remember saying this to Matt too when I picked up my Bayraider some four years ago. Matt obviously was keen on the idea, but said he was very reluctant (for obvious reasons) to start one and administer it.
The idea of an association is inevitable I think, with the amount of boats now built and spread worldwide and is an excellent idea, but, the task of taking this on is fairly onerous I think, and extremely time consuming.
In my experience with these things they soon become a chore rather than an enjoyable experience. It will, I presume, be necessary to appoint Commodores, Secretaries, Treasurers, auditors, guys who can manage a web site, etc ad nauseum. Tho' the AGM's could be had combined with a rally (or raid) with a great time had by all - apart from the guys who have to organise it all of course!
That said, as I am considering (only considering at the moment, so don't get too excited Matt!) getting a BayCruiser - 20 or 23, not sure which. I would wholeheartedly support the venture - but as I spend over half the year abroad (am in Hong Kong as I type this), would be retiscent about offering too much commitment.
Local SwallowBoat 'raids' held at different locations around the country sounds extremely attractive to me!
Great idea .. and thanks for raising it.
Andy
BR20 No 12 Psalter