Economic environment affecting U.S. boat sales - MarineBusinessWorld North America newsletter
by Peter Rendle 17 Sep 2025 08:00 PDT
Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary © National Marine Manufacturers Association
NMMA's latest Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary, covering data through June 2025, shows continued pressure on retail sales as economic uncertainty and elevated borrowing costs weigh on consumer demand.
Year-to-date, new powerboat retail unit sales fell 9.7% compared to the same six-month period in 2024, with 130,956 units sold. Looking at the rolling 12-month period from July 2024 through June 2025, total retail powerboat sales declined 7.3% to 220,662 units.
The latest sales trends report for powerboats, part of NMMA's 2024 U.S. Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract, is now available. In 2024, the U.S. powerboat market recorded nearly 168,000 new unit sales. The fiberglass outboard boats between 21 and 24 feet led with over 13,000 units, while aluminum models drove volume. Pontoons captured the largest share of outboard product mix at more than one-third of the market.
Meanwhile, Australia's luxury boat builder Riviera, based on the Gold Coast in Queensland has prepared for its largest ever shipment of motor yachts to the United States - 15 in total that range in value from $1.6m to $6.8 million. The precious cargo was carefully craned onto a large ship in the Port of Brisbane over several days commencing from Monday September 8th, ahead of their 34-day journey to Florida on the east coast of the United States. The multimillion dollar yachts range in length from 43 to 72 feet.
The Newport International Boat Show announced this week the results of this year's Newport for New Products Awards. Judged during the Show's opening day and announced at awards ceremony on September 12, the winners are: Best New Boat Overall - Hinckley Yachts Picnic Boat 39. Best New Sailboat Overall - Lagoon Catamarans Lagoon 38. Best New Powerboat Under 45-feet - Hinckley Yachts Picnic Boat 39. Best New Powerboat Over 45-feet - The Kadey-Krogen Group Krogen 60 Open. Best Wearable/Safety Gear - Mustang Survival Elite 190 Inflatable PFD. Best Technology Product - Rockwolfe DC USB Charging Hub. Honorable Mention: FT Technologies FT602-D-SM Wind Sensor. Best Operational, Maintenance & Safety Product - TEMO-1000 Electric Outboard. Best Green/Innovation Product - Cay Electronics CayCube silent power source. Best Product for New Boaters/Accessibility - Areys Custom Boats Caracal 19.
Denison Yachting and OneWater Yacht Group announced they are joining forces to create the largest yacht firm in the world. Operating with the same leadership but under the Denison Yachting brand, the combined company will have a network of 23 offices across the United States and Europe, delivering an unmatched client experience in the buying, selling, and ownership of luxury yachts worldwide.
Vision Marine Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: VMAR) a pioneer in high-voltage marine propulsion systems and multi-brand boat retailing, this week announced a strategic partnership with Hydrofin, a U.S. company specializing in patented hydrofoil systems for pontoons. Through its Nautical Ventures dealership network, Vision Marine will integrate Hydrofin's hydrofoil technology into its pontoon lineup. Hydrofin's systems are engineered to lift pontoons partially out of the water, reducing drag and improving speed, range, and ride comfort.
Highfield Boats, a leading American RIB brand, has announced the launch the Escape Series, an all-new line of fiberglass-hull center console RIBs made in the USA. The first two models in the series, the Highfield Escape 650 and Escape 750, were unveiled on Tuesday during the Highfield Boats Dealer & Media Day Event at the company's factory in Cadillac, Michigan.
And in the Middle East, the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, one of the Middle East's most established and internationally recognised clubs, is inviting applications for the role of Racing & Events Manager. With over 50 years of heritage and a membership representing more than 40 nationalities, DOSC is a leading hub for competitive sailing in the region. The club is seeking an experienced professional to further enhance its racing pathways and deliver exceptional events.
More news from our region at www.marinebusinessworld.com/NorthAmerica updated daily.
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media