Some kind of full blown Pro Tour circuit production (like the F1 18 footers) just might help. If it can be televised in scenic venues, marketed properly, with all the onboard and air-born cameras. I recall the Olympic? post about some screaming reach finish parallel to grandstands on shore.

This may spark a few viewers to find out a little more about catamarans, maybe buy a boat and possibly race in a local event.