Recreational Boating Industry Report Shows Mixed Results

As the U.S. recreational boating industry moved into the first quarter of 2025, new data from the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary report paints a complex picture—defined by ongoing retail softness, cautious optimism and a watchful eye on economic indicators that continue to shape consumer behavior.

In the 12-month period ending February 2025, total new powerboat retail unit sales declined 7.4% year-over-year to 233,737 units. Wholesale shipments saw a steeper drop, down 13.0%, reflecting continued inventory recalibration by manufacturers and dealers alike.

The February 2025 report includes several key findings.

• While the broader trend points to a softening demand, the picture is not uniformly negative. Early 2025 year-to-date retail sales (January–February) fell a modest 4.8% compared to the same period in 2024.
• Freshwater fishing boats emerged as a bright spot—posting a 6.6% increase over last year’s start.
• Personal watercraft (PWC) sales were nearly flat year-over-year (+0.1%), demonstrating resilience in more accessible, lower-cost segments.

February’s macroeconomic backdrop added context to this environment. The Consumer Confidence Index hovered at 98.3 and the Consumer Sentiment Index remained low at 64.7, both indicative of cautious consumer behavior. Inflation eased slightly to 2.8%, but the 30-year fixed mortgage rate held firm at 6.8%, and the federal funds rate remained at 4.3%—continuing to put a brake on interest-sensitive, discretionary purchases like boats. However, unemployment remained healthy, contributing to the mixed economic picture.

NMMA’s Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary report is published at the beginning of each month and is available at no cost to members. The full report includes comprehensive retail and wholesale data, engine and segment breakdowns, and key economic indicators relevant to marine businesses.

NMMA’s Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary report is available at no cost for members. Associate members can purchase an annual subscription for $1,800.

Download the latest report here

Bookmark  https://www.nmma.org/statistics/publications/industry-data-summary for direct and easy access.