Feedback on the state of the industry this week - MarineBusinessWorld North America newsletter
by Peter Rendle 18 Mar 09:00 PDT
Newport International Boat Show 2025 © Newport International Boat Show
The Newport International Boat Show has announced the results of its Economic Impact study on the September 2025 event, at the Newport Yachting Center in Downtown Newport, Rhode Island.
Over the course of four days, visitors contributed more than $22.5 million in economic impact to the State. Serving as the kick off to boat show season, the Show welcomed 30,000 attendees from across the country and the world, with 70% of visitors travelling from outside the state of Rhode Island. Additionally, the Show created 113 full-time equivalent jobs for workers in the area.
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, totalling 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.
World Boating Day has launched #WhatFloatsYourBoat, a new global social media campaign for 2026 celebrating the people, passions and everyday moments that define the boating industry. The initiative invites companies, professionals and enthusiasts from across the international boating community to share what inspires them about life and work on the water, from innovation in shipyards and yacht design studios to sunset moments on deck and adventure travel.
The global ocean technology, engineering and science communities united in London last week for a landmark edition of Oceanology International (Oi26), transforming the Excel venue into a vibrant showcase of breakthrough innovation, next-generation equipment and high-energy dealmaking for thousands of attendees. This year's three-day event surpassed expectations, attracting 8,271 visitors and professionals from across the ocean enterprise for a total attendance of 15,709, representing a 14% increase on the previous edition. 50% of attendees were from outside the UK, with 461 exhibiting companies representing over 30 countries.
The California Boating Congress, sponsored by the Marine Recreation Association and co-hosted by the NMMA, is scheduled for April 28-29 in Sacramento. The event brings together industry stakeholders and leaders from across the marine industry and boating community to discuss boating and industry policy. This includes a full day of advocacy and policy sessions, including the opportunity to hear from several legislators and regulators on their top priorities, including the state's efforts to combat aquatic invasive species. Of key importance is protecting access to public waters for all to enjoy.
The Sea Tow Foundation, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing boating-related accidents and fatalities, is seeking six new members to join its Boating Safety Advisory Council for a two-year term. Council members represent a diverse cross-section of the marine industry and serve as decision-makers, influencers, and subject-matter experts within their respective fields.
B&G, a leading sailing electronics manufacturer, proudly marks its 70th anniversary - celebrating breakthrough technology that has empowered sailors to navigate farther, race smarter, and push the boundaries of what's possible on the water. Since 1956, B&G has pioneered advancements that continue to shape modern sailing. Yasser Nafei, President, Electronic Solutions for Navico Group, said, "For seven decades, sailors around the world have trusted B&G to guide them across oceans, fuel their ambitions, and elevate their performance on the water."
There's more industry news at www.marinebusinessworld.com/NorthAmerica
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media