NMMA President Talks State of Recreational Boating, Headwinds and Opportunities

In a new Marine Minute, NMMA President, Frank Hugelmeyer, shares NMMA’s take on the current state of the recreational boating industry, including a look at consumer behaviors and demand in 2023 and how that’s shaping headwinds and opportunities the association is watching in 2024.

While new boat sales are expected to remain relatively flat in 2024, boating expenditures are likely to remain strong as the industry approaches spring and summer boating activity. With the surge in boat sales during the pandemic, it’s expected Americans will continue to take to the water in large numbers this year given the unique social and wellness benefits boating delivers. Ensuring water access, providing seamless support for boaters with educational resources, and timely service and maintenance, are core to the industry’s continued focus on customer retention.

To stay up to date with the latest industry sales trends, NMMA members receive access to monthly wholesale and retail reports, in addition to numerous dashboards and research studies. Non-members can purchase the monthly wholesale and retail reports for $3,199. Please contact [email protected] or visit the Statistics section on nmma.org to learn more.