Despite a context marked by post-Covid inflation, economic uncertainties and changing consumer habits – last minute – the French nautical sector continues to hold up.
That’s the findings of the Federation of Nautical Industries as it presents the latest boat sales figures.
New boat sales declined nearly 15%, with units under 9 metres the major casualties.
Used boat sales were stable with a drop of 3% of units sold compared to the previous season.
However, the report finds that the evolution of sales of new and used boats since 2012 has been generally stable.
Like all industrial sectors, our sector is in turmoil.
Jean-Paul Chapeleau
“Like all industrial sectors, our sector is in turmoil,” said Jean-Paul Chapeleau, president of the Federation of Nautical Industries.
“However, it should be noted that the overall level of sales (new and used) has remained stable over the last decade, supported by the dynamism of nautical activities.”
The first trends for the 2025 summer season confirm a positive dynamic with the summer of 2025 being a good season for boating in general.
The off-season also promises to be healthy with activity still taking place on the water.
Marine chartering has seen an overall positive season, with the weather favouring chartering in mainland France and Corsica.
Last-minute bookings
Distant destinations have growth potential and there are a good level of bookings in September and October.
Last-minute bookings are on the rise, but an increase in the price of long-haul flights could impact future bookings.
It was also a good season for river charters, which saw a slight increase in activity.
July was disappointing for water sports and outdoor activities, but it was made up for by an excellent August. Inland waterways were well visited.
Watersports in all their forms are growing in popularity, particularly wingfoiling.
Watersports growing in popularity
However, the report finds that economic climate and the widespread wait-and-see attitude of customers are not conducive to trading activity.
Inventories have shrunk and companies’ cash flow has improved slightly, but 2025 is no better than 2024, although maintenance and chandlery remain stable.
Large yachting has faced increasingly strong competition from other countries for refit and charter.
Good momentum
The FIN points out that to reverse this trend, it is necessary to strengthen the attractiveness of France, in particular by developing organised anchorages.
Visits to marinas was generally up across the country, with the number of port calls and fuel consumption both up.
There has also been good momentum in relation to sailing schools and supervised practice with very satisfactory occupancy rates and a significant increase in the number of women in the coaching staff.
