Please select your home edition
Edition




Powerboat sales trend report now available - MarineBusinessWorld North America newsletter

by Peter Rendle 18 Oct 2023 14:00 PDT
2022 U.S. Statistical Abstract: Powerboat Sales Trends Report now available © United States

The latest Powerboat Sales Trends report, part of the National Marine Manufacturers Association's 2022 U.S. Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract, is now available. Coming off extraordinary record demand in 2020 and 2021, as expected, sales of new traditional powerboats (outboard, inboard wake sport, inboard cruisers, sterndrive, jet) began a correction in 2022 with a normalizing of unit sales to pre-pandemic levels.

This brought sales of new traditional powerboat units down 13.5% in 2022 to nearly 190,000 units. While the outboard, inboard and sterndrive categories saw declines, jet boat unit sales increased 39.4% or approximately 2,200 units. See www.nmma.org/statistics/publications/statistical-abstract

The International BoatBuilders' Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) announced this week that the Show, which closed on October 5th, exceeded expectations based on on-site traffic data and attendance figures. The three-day event saw packed aisles, full educational sessions, and well-attended networking events.

Following the difficulties of the past several years, from the pandemic to Hurricane Ian, IBEX 2023 welcomed more than 8,600 industry professionals from 70 countries. There were 6,825 visits from over 4,600 visitors with 72% coming from the United States, and 27% representing the rest of globe. Boatbuilders checked in with the highest numbers, making up nearly 30% of visitors on-site, and new product discovery was the top reason registrants reported for attending.

The annual Industry Breakfast, Innovation Awards Presentation, and Keynote, held October 3rd, was sold out and filled the room with over 900 attendees. Exceptional technological advancements were recognized, with thirteen Innovation Awards given along with four honorable mentions. Products can be viewed on the online showcase. Frank Hugelmeyer, NMMA president, gave the State of the Industry Address and Conor Lokar, ITR Senior Forecaster, gave a timely and relevant keynote address that was very well received.

ePropulsion, a global leader and market challenger in marine electric propulsion systems and services, announced today that it will establish ePropulsion USA, its branch office in the United States. This strategic move aims to further strengthen the company's presence in the United States and capitalize on the unique opportunities presented by the American boating industry. Tom Watson, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the marine sector, has been appointed as the President of ePropulsion USA.

"The United States is a vital area of business in the marine industry, across all sectors, including those of commercial and recreational," said Danny Tao, co-founder and CEO of ePropulsion. "We have made excellent strides in North America and in the United States, and now we want to further focus our efforts on this unique and diverse market. We couldn't be in better hands on that front than with Tom, who is intimately familiar with the American boating industry."

Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), the world's largest marine technology company, has been named to the 2023 Forbes World's Best Employers list for the fourth consecutive year. Of the thousands of companies surveyed for this honor, Brunswick ranked in the top 30 percent overall of the 700 companies that made the final list.

"We are thrilled to be recognized for a fourth consecutive year on the Forbes World's Best Employers list, which is a reflection of our global workforce of more than 18,000 employees and a testament to our Next Never Rests culture," said Jill Wrobel, Chief Human Resources Officer, Brunswick Corporation. "This award is especially meaningful as it is a direct result of employee feedback, which highlights our commitment to cultivating an authentic culture where everyone brings their diverse perspectives to innovate and drive the future of marine technology."

Hodgdon Tenders, the Superyacht tender division of Hodgdon Yachts, announced today that they have launched an 11.4 meter aft helm Superyacht limousine tender, designed by Michael Peters Yacht Design. The tender will be delivered to a Northern European shipyard. Highlights of the Limousine include accommodations for up to 15 guests, a climate-controlled interior with custom upholstery and detailing, forward and aft outside guest seating areas, exterior wet-bar, gyro stabilization, and a T-top that lowers for stowage. Guests and crew can board from port or starboard sides.

Dockmate, manufacturer of advanced wireless remote controls for yachts, announced today the expansion of its integration with systems from thruster manufacturer VETUS. Building on its already-successful partnership, Dockmate is now able to connect cleanly with VETUS BOW PRO proportional brushless thrusters. Through this integration, Dockmate allows boaters with VETUS BOW PRO thrusters to be in complete control of their boat's movement from anywhere on board, including away from the helm where visibility is often limited.

Look forward!
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@marinebusinessworld.com

Related Articles

General Election now over; time to look forward
A summary of news relevant to businesses across Oceania The Australian International Marine Export Group, together with Superyacht Australia has confirmed an impressive line-up of speakers for the Australian Superyacht Conference, to be held 19-21 May at The Langham Gold Coast, Queensland. Posted on 8 May
American Sportfishing Association urges action
A summary of news relevant to marine businesses across North America ASA President Glenn Hughes sent a letter to Trump Administration expressing support for its efforts to address global trade imbalances and strengthen U.S. competitiveness, while urging swift action to provide greater certainty and relief for ASA members. Posted on 7 May
Boat Show updates from Sydney and Melbourne
A summary of news relevant to businesses across Oceania The 2025 Sydney Boat Show is here and exhibitor applications are now open. Taking place from 14 to 17 August at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, this exciting new event format puts the marine industry front and centre. Posted on 1 May
Monaco in Hung Hom?
HK Government has big plans for harbourfront development “The yacht economy is not only about having a breakwater - in the cases of Barcelona and Monte Carlo, they have established an industry chain with supporting facilities including maintenance and gadgets.” Posted on 1 May
Tariff rates under further consideration
A summary of news relevant to marine businesses across North America According to an April 23 Wall Street Journal report, President Trump is considering reducing the tariff rate on Chinese imports to 50-65%. Posted on 30 Apr
Women's roles in our industry are undisputed
A summary of news relevant to businesses across Oceania The AMSA invited BIA recently to record a video Q&A to highlight the work of industry to promote women in the boating sector to all Regional Safety Committees around Australia. Posted on 24 Apr
"Steady as she goes" is the industry message
A summary of news relevant to marine businesses across North America As the recreational boating industry faces shifting economic tides, understanding the sentiments of its leaders has never been more critical. Posted on 23 Apr
Easter is a time for industry reflection
A summary of news relevant to businesses across Oceania As Australians prepare to enjoy the Easter long weekend, the Boating Industry Association (BIA) anticipates a surge in recreational boating activity across the nation's waterways. Posted on 17 Apr
Economic pressure affects boat sales
A summary of news relevant to marine businesses across North America As economic headwinds continue to shape consumer sentiment, the latest Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary report analyzes January 2025 data, offering a look at trends and how 2025 kicked-off ahead of the tariff and trade tensions. Posted on 16 Apr
New Sydney Boat show details to be released
A summary of news relevant to businesses across Oceania The BIA is set to announce details next week on the new Sydney Boat Show to be held over 14-17 August this year at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park. Posted on 10 Apr