NMMA Survey Reveals Access Challenges Impact Boating Participation

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) released new national survey findings from 2,000 active U.S. recreational boaters, offering a clear picture of how access challenges are shaping Americans’ on the water experience. The results show that congestion at ramps and marinas, limited storage availability, and waterway maintenance issues are widespread and already impacting how often Americans boat.  

According to the survey, 80% of boat owners experience congestion at their primary access point, and 83% say that congestion limits their ability to go boating at least sometimes. These pressures are affecting behavior: 71% of owners have already changed their behavior because of access challenges, reporting that they boat less often, travel farther to launch, or spend less on boating overall.  

Survey respondents also weighed in on the boating access improvements that would make the biggest difference. Ninety-three percent say improved access would increase their boating frequency, and more than half say it would increase significantly. The most desired improvements include reduced congestion, more public ramps and marina slips, expanded storage options, and better parking. Many respondents emphasized that access also includes the condition of the waterways themselves. Sixty-six percent say waterway maintenance is extremely important to their boating experience, and 64% were affected by water levels, dredging, or debris in the past year.  

The survey also highlights how access influences future participation. Nearly half of non-owners surveyed are planning to move forward with a boat purchase, and many say improved access would support that decision. More storage availability, closer ramps, and beginner friendly programs were all cited as factors that would convert interest into ownership.  

While the national trends are consistent, regional differences offer important nuance. Boaters in the Pacific/Southwest and Great Lakes report the highest levels of congestion, while those in the Rocky Mountains/Plains and South Atlantic express the strongest concern about waterway maintenance. South Atlantic boaters report the highest satisfaction and shortest travel times to water.  

Taken together, the findings reinforce an opportunity to strengthen recreational boating, expand participation, and support the made-in-America marine industry by improving access. The results directly support NMMA’s Waterways Access Initiative, announced in July 2026, which focuses on protecting and expanding access to public waters, modernizing recreation infrastructure, and sustaining the $230 billion recreational boating and fishing economy.