The recreational boating market in Spain registered 970 new boats in the first quarter of 2026, a 15.3% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
The figures are according to the Recreational Boating Market Report (March 2026) prepared by ANEN and based on data provided by the Directorate General of the Merchant Marine.
The figures across all boat lengths have increased, with the most significant increase seen in boats over 8 metres in length.
The up to 6 metre segment accounted for the greatest number of registrations, recording a market share of almost 66% and an 8.3% growth.
The 6 to 8 metre in length segment saw 174 registered units, an increase of nearly 21% and the 8 to 12 metre segment had 92 registrations, up 21%.
The 12-16 metre segment registered 38 boats – up more than 58%, while larger vessels over 16 metres, recorded their best quarter since 2024, with 28 units registered.
Motorboats lead the market
Motorboats led the market, however sailing vessel registrations also showed significant growth.
“The March figures suggest a typical reactivation for this time of year and point to a gradual recovery trend,” said Jordi Carrasco, director general of ANEN.
“We are facing the season with a market showing signs of dynamism, although it is advisable to closely monitor the evolution of demand in the coming months.”
By vessel type, motorboats maintained their market leadership in the first quarter, with 471 registrations, a market share of nearly 49% and 29% growth.
Sailing vessels saw year-on-year growth of 37% with 48 registrations.
Growth in the charter market
There were 208 registrations of personal watercraft (PWCs), representing 21.4% of the market.
The recreational boat rental market showed positive growth in the first quarter of the year, with 288 registrations, representing a 15.7% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
However the volume remains below that recorded in 2024 (350 registrations).
In March, charters reached 170 registrations, a 37.1% year-on-year increase, consolidating the positive trend for the month across the market as a whole.
In the quarter-to-date figures, the Balearic Islands accounted for the highest volume of registrations (138), followed by Murcia (124), Barcelona (92) and Alicante (73).
In the charter market, the Balearic Islands led the market (69), with Murcia and Barcelona next (31 each) and Alicante and Girona as additional key markets (23 each).
