In the mad early 80's I believe the hire craft numbers were approx 1500 and dropped recently to approx 750. Perhaps CliveR can confirm for us.
Personally when we came down for our fortnight holiday first fortnight in July, starting from either Summercraft or Alan Johnson's, we did the North first week, moorings were that bit easier to find, but of course, then there were a lot more hire yards to moor up at.
Being as there are now more private craft than hire, IF all the private craft were out at the same time as hirers, (yes anno very hypothetical) but IF it happened, bedlam may then ensue IMO. in certain spots.
I would love to see more hire yards back on the Broads, but as Clive has said on here, its not a massive profit running scheme.
Looks like for now the Broads Pound idea Neil, will remain on a monopoly board, or similar.
Iain