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Recreational boating market shows continued softness through January 2026

by National Marine Manufacturers Association 17 Apr 07:52 PDT
Recreational Boating Economic Indicators © National Marine Manufacturers Association

NMMA's latest Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary, reflecting data through January 2026, indicates continued softness across the recreational boating market as elevated interest rates and cautious consumer sentiment weigh on demand. On a rolling 12-month basis (February 2025-January 2026), new powerboat retail unit sales declined 9% year-over-year to 214,832 units.

Across segments, performance remained mixed but generally down. Freshwater fishing boats, the industry's largest segment, declined by 1.7% and continue to lead in overall volume. Personal watercraft fell 10%, while pontoon and saltwater fishing boats declined 13% and 8.6%, respectively. Cruisers and runabouts saw more pronounced softness, and yacht sales declined modestly, outperforming several smaller segments.

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