Boating

The recreational boating industry urges Congress to advance the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026 to protect waterway access and modernize infrastructure. NMMA prioritizes fixing recreation fee retention, aligning data standards, modernizing lease terms, and streamlining marina improvement approvals to support the $230 billion boating industry and 812,000 American jobs.

The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water launched a free interactive boating safety course approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The course meets state requirements, can be taken at the student's own pace, and is recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard as exceeding minimum National Recreational Boating Safety Program standards.

Boston Whaler, a Brunswick Corporation brand, debuted the all-new 330 Outrage and 290 Outrage at the 2026 Miami International Boat Show. The 330 Outrage features WhalerStep™ hull technology, dual Mercury 425 outboard engines, and Simrad NSS4 electronics, offering enhanced offshore performance and comfort for fishing, cruising, and entertaining.

Bob Hewes invented the first true flats boat in the 1960s after a bone fishing trip with world champion fly fisherman Lefty Kreh. Working with guide Captain Bill Curtis, Hewes also invented the poling tower. His company, now run by son-in-law Jim Wiborg, was sold to Maverick Boat Company and remains a leading boat retailer.

The BoatUS Foundation received a $375,000 grant from the U.S. Coast Guard to expand its Life Jacket Loaner Program by piloting up to 150 smart loaner stations nationwide. The program aims to improve access to properly fitting life jackets and boating safety education across diverse communities.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), alongside the Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA) and Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA), advocates for science-based statewide wakesurfing regulations requiring 200 feet from shore in 10-foot depths. NMMA opposes restrictive bans that limit public access while supporting the Wake Responsibly campaign promoting responsible boating practices.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) highlights that life jackets are critical safety gear, noting that three of six 2024 boating fatalities involved unwearer drowning victims. AZGFD offers boating safety education courses and operates life jacket loaner stations at popular lakes throughout the state.

The Discover Boating Atlanta and New England boat shows, in partnership with Progressive®, drew tens of thousands of attendees with strong sales activity. Exhibitors including MacCallum's Boat House, Bosun's Marine, Carefree Boat Club, and MarineMax reported optimism despite challenging market conditions.

Effective January 1, 2026, Maine requires children 12 years of age or younger to wear USCG-approved personal flotation devices while on recreational watercraft. The Maine State Legislature increased the requirement from 10 years old to align with federal law and improve youth water safety.

NMMA's Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary through October 2025 revealed year-to-date new retail powerboat unit sales decreased 8.7%, with 202,994 units sold. Economic pressures from elevated borrowing costs and mixed consumer confidence continued influencing the marine market, with freshwater fishing boats showing relative stability compared to discretionary categories.

The 2026 boat show season launches with Discover Boating® New England Boat Show® in Boston and Discover Boating® Atlanta Boat Show® in Atlanta, both in partnership with Progressive®. The sold-out events feature NMMA member companies, dealers, and accessory brands showcasing new boats and marine innovations through Sunday.

NMMA reports 2025 powerboat sales declined 8-10% to approximately 215,000-225,000 units, with 2026 expected to remain stable or slightly improve. Entry-level segments, personal watercraft, and freshwater fishing boats drove activity, while pre-owned boats remain critical to market access.