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Latest NMMA Data shows Retail Boat Sales softened in 2025

by National Marine Manufacturers Association 12 Mar 09:40 PDT
Recreational Boating Economic Indicators © National Marine Manufacturers Association

NMMA's latest Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary, featuring full-year 2025 data, shows new boat retail unit sales declined 8.8% year over year, totaling 215,237 units, compared with 236,070 units in 2024.

While economic headwinds influenced purchasing decisions throughout the year, demand for boating remained supported by accessible segments and continued participation across the broader boating marketplace. Among new boat segments, freshwater fishing boats showed the greatest stability with a 1.5% decline in unit sales year over year.

Key economic indicators throughout 2025 reinforced a cautious consumer environment. Interest rates remained elevated, inflation held above historical averages, and consumer confidence and sentiment measures remained relatively subdued compared with long-term norms. These factors continued to influence consumer behavior around large discretionary purchases, including boats.

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