An Exploratory Survey and Analysis of Sailing in Galveston Bay, Texas1

Abstract

ABSTRACT. Participation in sailing has increased dramatically over the past fifteen years. During some periods the growth in sailing participation has actually exceeded that of other forms of recreational boating. Although increased sailing activity has exerted pressure for policy and facility development, our understanding of sailing is limited. The lack of baseline information systems may be a major reason for the absence of sailing research efforts. The purpose of this paper is to describe the findings of an exploratory survey of sailing in Galveston Bay, Texas. Included are findings on the descriptive characteristics, boat ownership, sailing experience, extent and nature of sailing participation and geographic patterns of sailing of a group of sailing participants in Galveston Bay. Although exploratory in nature, this survey provides an increased understanding of sailing activities as well as difficulties involved in obtaining data.