I think that it is great that there are alternatives to owning a boat. I've always been dismayed by the huge number of boats that are left in slips for what seems like perfect sailing days....over 90% I'd think.
I belong to a community sailing group in Marina del Rey, California, called Fairwind Yacht Club, that has been in existence for over 40 years. Fairwind has about 200 members, and about 25 boats available for use. There are two that would meet the criteria of the article: A Catalina 38, and a Catalina 400.
For those who are checked out on that size boat, the monthly cost is about $90, with an initiation of $200 (which includes the first three months dues), and a bond for that level boat of $1,000--the insurance deductible, which is refundable upon termination of membership. (and don't hit anything!)
There is no limit on how often a boat can be taken out, with no additional cost other than
fuel, and one can take the boats on a cruise for up to 10 days. Fairwind is an ASA School, and provides free volunteer instruction to the members, with 25 certified instructors, with the option of certification at most levels, including instructor and USCG Captain's licenses. There are organized cruises, sanctioned races, community sailing programs for at-risk youth, and various group activities.
This is a great deal, and in a very short time, is the cost effective alternative.
The downside of a community sailing program is that the participants need to provide significant volunteer effort to make the program work. A certain amount of convenience is sacrificed for a lot of financial savings. "Sweat Equity" is substituted for monitary equity.
However, one also becomes part of a dedicated community of diverse backgrounds, tied together by a love of sailing.