Summary
- • 95% of boats sold in the US are made in the US
- • The average boat owner is 55 years old
- • 88% of boats in use in the US are 26 feet or less in length
- • The recreational boating industry has an annual economic impact of $170.3 billion
- • There are approximately 11.9 million registered recreational boats in the US
- • 61% of boat owners have a household income of less than $100,000
- • The US recreational boating industry supports 691,149 jobs
- • Pontoon boats saw a 12% increase in sales in 2020
- • 95% of Americans live within an hour's drive of a navigable body of water
- • The global recreational boating market is expected to reach $63.53 billion by 2026
- • Fishing is the most popular activity among boat owners, with 75% using their boats for this purpose
- • The average boat owner spends 71.5 hours boating per season
- • Outboard boats account for 85% of new powerboat sales
- • The US recreational boating industry generates $55 billion in annual sales and services
- • 41% of boat owners have a college degree
Grab your captains hat and prepare to set sail into the fascinating world of recreational boating! Did you know that 95% of boats sold in the US are proudly made on home turf, creating waves of economic impact? With the average boat owner cruising comfortably at 55 years old, its no surprise that 88% of boats in use are under 26 feet in length, perfect for exploring the vast waterways that 95% of Americans live within an hours drive of. Join us as we navigate through the thrilling statistics and intriguing insights of an industry that keeps Americas love for the water afloat!
Boat Types
- 88% of boats in use in the US are 26 feet or less in length
- Pontoon boats saw a 12% increase in sales in 2020
- Outboard boats account for 85% of new powerboat sales
- Personal watercraft sales increased by 8% in 2020
- Wakesport boats saw a 20% increase in sales in 2020
- 95% of boats on the water in the US are less than 26 feet long
- Freshwater fishing boats account for 38% of new powerboat sales
- 95% of boats in the US are trailerable
- Saltwater fishing boats saw a 13% increase in sales in 2020
- 95% of boats sold in the US are 26 feet or less in length
- Jet boats saw a 15% increase in sales in 2020
- Cruiser sales increased by 10% in 2020
- 95% of boats in use are powerboats
- Ski and wakeboard boats saw an 11% increase in sales in 2020
- Aluminum fishing boats saw a 14% increase in sales in 2020
- Sailboat sales increased by 5% in 2020
- 95% of boats in the US are less than 26 feet in length and can be trailered
- Pontoon boats account for 25% of new powerboat sales
Interpretation
In a sea of statistics, one thing is clear: Americans like to keep things compact when it comes to their aquatic adventures. Whether it's zipping around on a personal watercraft or leisurely cruising on a pontoon boat, the trend seems to favor smaller vessels that pack a big punch. From freshwater fishing to wakesport thrills, it's evident that the mantra "bigger is better" doesn't quite hold water in the boating world. So, next time you're out on the water and spot a fleet of trailerable boats under 26 feet in length, just remember, size may not matter, but the fun sure does.
Boating Activities
- Fishing is the most popular activity among boat owners, with 75% using their boats for this purpose
- The average boat owner spends 71.5 hours boating per season
- The average boat owner uses their boat 28 days per year
- The average boat owner takes 17 outings per year
- The average boat is used 50 hours per year
- The average boat owner spends 14% of their leisure time boating
Interpretation
In the hierarchy of nautical pursuits, it appears that casting a line and reeling in a catch reigns supreme among boat owners, with an impressive 75% choosing fishing as their aquatic activity of choice. With boat owners spending an average of 71.5 hours cruising the waters per season, it's clear that the call of the sea is not to be ignored. Whether it's the thrill of the catch or simply the siren song of the open water, the numbers don't lie: boating is a beloved pastime that commands a significant slice of leisure time, proving that for many, life truly is better on a boat.
Demographics
- The average boat owner is 55 years old
- 61% of boat owners have a household income of less than $100,000
- 41% of boat owners have a college degree
- 72% of boat owners have a household income between $50,000 and $200,000
- 76% of boat owners have a household income of less than $150,000
- 63% of boat owners are married
- The average boat owner has been boating for 28 years
- 62% of boat owners have children under 18 living at home
- 71% of boat owners have a household income of less than $125,000
- 58% of boat owners are male
- 65% of boat owners have a household income between $75,000 and $250,000
- 54% of boat owners have a household income of less than $75,000
- 70% of boat owners have a household income of less than $100,000
- 62% of boat owners are over 50 years old
Interpretation
In a sea of statistics about the recreational boating industry, it seems the average boat owner is steering comfortably into their mid-50s with a well-worn captain's hat atop their head. With a mix of seasoned sailors and eager newcomers, this diverse crew of boaters defies the stereotype that only the affluent can sail the high seas. Despite waves of economic uncertainty, these sailors weather the financial storms, proving that a love for boating knows no income bracket. So, as they navigate the waters of life with children and partners in tow, these boat owners show that age is just a number, but the joy of setting sail remains timeless.
Economic Impact
- The recreational boating industry has an annual economic impact of $170.3 billion
- The US recreational boating industry supports 691,149 jobs
- The US recreational boating industry generates $55 billion in annual sales and services
- The recreational boating industry paid $56.7 billion in labor income in 2018
- The recreational boating industry supports 35,277 businesses in the US
- The US recreational boating industry contributes $14 billion in annual tax revenue
- The US recreational boating industry generates $170.3 billion in annual economic activity
- The US recreational boating industry supports 2.3% of all US jobs
- The US recreational boating industry contributes 2.2% of US GDP
- The US recreational boating industry generates $12 billion in annual retail sales of new boats, engines, and marine accessories
- The US recreational boating industry supports 691,149 direct and indirect American jobs
- The US recreational boating industry has a total annual economic impact of $170.3 billion
Interpretation
In a sea of economic data, the recreational boating industry emerges as a buoyant force to be reckoned with, riding a wave of impressive statistics that make even the most seasoned economist want to set sail. With an annual economic impact of $170.3 billion, it's clear that this industry doesn't just float boats—it keeps a fleet of 691,149 jobs afloat and sails through the waters of generating $55 billion in annual sales and services. From supporting 35,277 businesses to contributing $14 billion in annual tax revenue, the recreational boating industry is not just making waves, it's creating a tidal wave of economic activity that ripples across the nation. So, next time you're out on the water, remember that behind every boat there's a whole industry navigating the economic tides with finesse.
Manufacturing
- 95% of boats sold in the US are made in the US
- The US exports approximately $1.7 billion worth of boats annually
- 95% of boats in the US are made by small businesses
- 95% of boats registered in the US are made in North America
- 95% of boats sold in the US are made by small businesses
- 95% of boats manufactured in the US are sold in the US
Interpretation
In a land where waves of patriotism crash against the shores of economic success, the Recreational Boating Industry stands tall, proudly waving the red, white, and blue. Like a ship navigating the choppy waters of global trade, American-built boats reign supreme in the sea of consumer choices. With small businesses at the helm, charting a course with precision and passion, these statistics paint a picture of a maritime powerhouse that not only anchors itself on home soil but also sets sail to distant shores, exporting the essence of American craftsmanship and innovation in every fiberglass hull and polished propeller. So, next time you take to the water in a locally crafted vessel, remember that behind every wave-cutting adventure lies a story of American ingenuity that's more buoyant than ever.
Market Potential
- 95% of Americans live within an hour's drive of a navigable body of water
Interpretation
With 95% of Americans conveniently living within an hour's drive of a navigable body of water, it's no wonder that the recreational boating industry continues to thrive. This statistic not only highlights the widespread accessibility of waterways in the United States but also serves as a clear invitation for individuals to embark on aquatic adventures. From serene lakes to bustling harbors, these water sources offer a myriad of opportunities for leisurely cruising or thrilling water sports. So next time you find yourself stuck in traffic, remember that just a short drive away lies a sea of possibilities waiting to be explored on a boat deck.
Market Size
- There are approximately 11.9 million registered recreational boats in the US
- The global recreational boating market is expected to reach $63.53 billion by 2026
- There are an estimated 100 million recreational boaters in the US
Interpretation
With nearly 12 million boats bobbing in American waters and a projected $63.53 billion global market ahead, it's clear that recreational boating is more than just a hobby—it's a lifestyle, a passion, and perhaps a slight obsession for an estimated 100 million enthusiasts in the US alone. These statistics prove that whether navigating the vast oceans or cruising the tranquil lakes, the call of the sea is a siren song few can resist. So grab your oars, or should we say steering wheel, and set sail towards a future where the waves are endless and the sunsets never disappoint.
Market Trends
- 62% of boat owners prefer to buy new boats over used ones
- The average price of a new boat is $42,000
- The average boat owner spends $2,211 on boat-related expenses annually
- The average boat owner spends $5,000 on boat purchases and expenses annually
- The average boat owner spends $1,554 on boat insurance annually
- The average boat owner spends 7.1% of their annual income on boating
Interpretation
In the world of recreational boating, it seems that the majority of boat owners have a strong preference for the shiny allure of a brand-new vessel, even if it comes at a hefty price tag of $42,000. With an average annual spending of $2,211 on boat-related expenses and $5,000 total on both purchases and expenses, it's clear that owning a boat is not just a hobby but a commitment. Especially considering the average annual cost of boat insurance at $1,554, it appears that boat owners are not only investing in their passion but also in peace of mind. With the average boat owner dedicating 7.1% of their income to this maritime lifestyle, it's safe to say that when it comes to sailing the high seas, enthusiasts spare no expense in pursuit of that elusive yacht life.
