I and my long time dive buddy Ron Yanega did some of the early Sand Dog events in FLA. Good time of year, no hassle diving in the springs whatever you had rebuilt etc. Had lots of fun and met some great folks. We both enjoyed the gear discussions too just like any "vintage" hobby.
First, full disclosure: I run scuba vacations in addition to being an Ikelite and Fantasea underwater photography equipment dealer. In the decades I've run trips I usually have found this:
* Money may be an issue. This goes with family commitments which even after kids grow up then it's Grandkids LOL.....
* Fresh water versus ocean. Many are happy blowing bubbles anywhere while others want a nice ocean environment. As Capt. says the warmer the better. This is actually my #1 client requirement along with easy conditions, decent visibility, etc. I've done my share of quarry diving and would have likely come next month but will be out of town on my own vacation with the wife.
* Travel distance (and cost) as Capt. Tom alluded to and I'll add international travel. Some do it and find it easy while others are totally averse to it.
A Comment on international dive trips: Luis and Herman have both done wonderful jobs on trips to Cozumel and Bonaire. Both are a bargain in Caribbean dive trips. I personally think Bonaire has a slight edge as to the easy diving, no gear hassle (OK you can't really dive a backpack and no BC, no SPG dive computer etc. ) but you catch my drift.
* Personal interest. Are you a "died in the wool exact vintage dive gear diver" or Argonaut modern / whatever configurations ? Many straddle this from what I see and read in the forums.
* Like any hobby sometimes people just cycle out due to age, loss of dive buddies, etc. My personal opinion is trips keep divers diving and COULD work for the VDH bunch. But planning and commitment is the key.
The stories I could tell you about organizing trips
Like the guy who says: " Go during XYZ month and I'll get 10 of my buddies to go for sure!" Well guess what......After I reserve space, get all logistics and usually get a few extras in their dive vacation they are ALWAYS, repeat ALWAYS the ones who never go......
For Pacific trips I plan 12-18 months in advance so folks can arrange time off, commit the $$$$, etc. Caribbean trips 6-8-12 months out. These days I simply plant my stake in the ground with dates, details and how to get on a trip. People are adults and if they want to go they'll make it happen. It's all BS until deposits are thrown down too. I NEVER hold a spot for anyone on a say so....Just sayin'........
I also treat dive travelers like adults. Want to fly the redeye to save $20.00? Go for it. Want to eat at Pasa Bon for pizza or the cheapo' rib place, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches all week? Fine.......Require a $50.00 entree' at a different place each night on Bonaire? Go for it.
I see this in dive stores who think they'll make it running people through multiple certifications. They're usually done with diving even if they get them to take "Advanced Open Water" (5 more dives, LOL......) But if they get them on a trip they're usually hooked and continue being real divers.....
Sorry to be so long winded but thought I'd share some thoughts.
David Haas
http://www.haasimages.com