Rising economic tide for boaters

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) reported a 10.7 percent increase in retail sales of new power boats and sailboats in 2012, demonstrating that a rising economic tide lifts all boats. The figures, part of NMMA’s annual U.S. Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract, show that 37.8 percent of American adults, or 88 million people, are expected to boat on U.S. waterways at least once in 2013. Trends in boat sales include a continued climb in the popularity of small fiberglass and aluminum outboard boats 26 feet or less in size (82 percent of the market); healthy growth in ski and wakeboard boats (increase of 13.4 percent in 2012); and a 36.4 percent increase in purchase of new jet boats. “Summer is a peak selling season for recreational boats, accessories and services throughout the U.S. as people look for ways to disconnect from the daily grind and enjoy fun times on the water,” says Thom Dammrich, NMMA president.