The latest US Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary report shows total new powerboat retail unit sales fell 8.2% year-over-year for the 12-month period ending January 2025.
The figures point to ongoing softening in discretionary purchases amid sustained concerns around inflation and interest rates says the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
However, while the report shows a decline for the 12-month YOY period, January 2025 retail sales were up 1% compared to January 2024, (7,809 versus 7,765 units). This is the first-time sales increased during the month of January since 2021.
“There was positive momentum peeking through in January that we saw playing out at our boat shows—while overall traffic was flat or down, buyers were out and bringing signs of a return to growth as we kicked off the New Year,” said Ellen Bradley, chief brand officer for NMMA.
Key findings from the January 2025 report include a 23.3% decline of wholesale shipments pointing to tightening inventory strategies across the supply chain.
We’re watching consumer behavior and confidence closely.
Ellen Bradley
The freshwater fishing boat segment saw a 3.8% year-over-year increase in retail sales, including a 19.8% boost in January 2025 compared to the same month in 2024.
NMMA says it attributes this increase to the category’s accessibility and broad appeal among middle-income households.
“The tariff headwinds and economic uncertainty we’re seeing now, coupled with the glimmer of growth we saw in January before this really set in, underscore the importance of the industry leaning into nurturing demand amid Americans’ desire for long-term value, wellness, and community–all of which being on the water uniquely delivers,” added Ellen.
“We’re watching consumer behavior and confidence closely in order to nimbly manage our approach with everything from messaging to media to timing across our Discover Boating marketing.
“Bottom line, there’s an opportunity right now to break through by helping people find ways to explore the memories and moments only boating can provide and to support and nurture that interest for long-term industry growth.”
The report is based on data from NMMA member manufacturers and state governments in partnership with Info-Link.
