YOY new boat sales fell 8.2 percent in January

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) released its Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary report, an analysis of recreational boating powerboat unit sales and key economic indicators through January 2025.

Released monthly, the report is based on data from NMMA member manufacturers and state governments in partnership with Info-Link and provide the most timely and detailed wholesale and retail analysis available in the market.

According to the report, new powerboat retail unit sales fell 8.2 percent year over year for the 12-month period ending January 2025. NMMA says this points to ongoing softening in discretionary purchases amid sustained concerns around inflation and interest rates.

Sales up from January 2024

While there was a decline for the 12-month YOY period, looking at the month of January 2025 compared to January 2024, new retail unit sales were up 1 percent (7,809 vs 7,765 units), the first-time sales increased during the month of January since 2021. NMMA says this data reflects sentiment from early-season boat shows that consumers were buying in certain segments and markets, and that while sales were mixed, there was a sense of optimism.

“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,” notes Ellen Bradley, chief brand officer of NMMA.