Recent Articles

Rhode Island Passes Mandatory Life Jacket Law For Paddlers

PROVIDENCE, RI – For paddlers in Rhode Island, wearing a life jacket is no longer a choice. It’s the law. The mandatory life jacket rule is one of five new safety regulations that went into effect on April 2, 2023, according to an announcement by the state’s Department of Environmental Management (DEM). The new life […]

Recreational Boating Statistics 2021

An annual compilation of recreational boating statistics in the United States, compiled by the U.S. Coast Guard using data supplied by the U.S. states and territories. Recreational Boating Statistics 2020 was released on June 30, 2021. New reports are published in early summer using certified data from the previous year.

Choosing Life Jackets for Kids

Five things to look for in life jackets for kids. By now, most boaters should be familiar with the statistics. Life jackets save lives, but only if you wear them. Fortunately, today’s offerings are more comfortable than ever. While most adults can easily find a life jacket that does the job, selecting a kid’s jacket […]

These Kayakers Fought for Survival After Big Waves Overturned Their Boats

One by one, the three kayakers capsized in the cold, angry water. Then they became separated. It was meant to be another boys’ trip, the latest in a tradition that stretched back more than two decades. Every other year, the old friends—Jim Farrington, 49, an electrical lineman in Alden, Michigan; Sean Royston, 47, an electrical grid systems manager […]

These Kayakers Fought for Survival After Big Waves Overturned Their Boats

One by one, the three kayakers capsized in the cold, angry water. Then they became separated. It was meant to be another boys’ trip, the latest in a tradition that stretched back more than two decades. Every other year, the old friends—Jim Farrington, 49, an electrical lineman in Alden, Michigan; Sean Royston, 47, an electrical grid systems manager […]

Statistics, Reports & Data

Recreational Boating Statistics 2021

An annual compilation of recreational boating statistics in the United States, compiled by the U.S. Coast Guard using data supplied by the U.S. states and territories. Recreational Boating Statistics 2020 was released on June 30, 2021. New reports are published in early summer using certified data from the previous year.

First-Time Boat Buyers Exceed 415,000 for Second Time in 15 Years

The NMMA and Info-Link, a market intelligence firm serving the recreational boating industry, reported today that 420,000 first-time boat buyers of new and pre-owned boats entered the market in 2021, on par with 2020 – levels the industry hasn’t seen since 2007. First-time boat buyers accounted for 34 percent of boat sales in 2021, driving […]

Most Recent Images & Video

Family Fishing

These photos show family members enjoying fishing from a boat, while wearing properly-fitting life jackets.

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Safe Boaters Are Happy Boaters!

Social media graphics – Safe Boaters are Happy Boaters!

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Buckle Up For Boating Fun!

Social media graphics with Buckle Up For Boating Fun message

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