Contributor Reports

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 […]

Recreational Boating Statistics 2019

Boating Statistics 2019, the 61st annual report, contains statistics on recreational boating accidents and state vessel registration. This publication is a result of the coordinated effort of the Coast Guard and those states and territories that have Federally-approved boat numbering and casualty reporting systems.

Info-link: U.S. Offshore Fishing Boat Market Snapshot

Offshore Fishing Boats are 27’ and larger fiberglass boats generally used for deep water fishing. They are most commonly multi engine outboard powered center consoles, typically found in coastal areas with ocean access. The category has achieved impressive growth over the last ten years and has decidedly favored ever larger boats.

Info-link: U.S. Runabout Market Snapshot

Runabouts are fiberglass outboard and stern drive boats between 16’ and 21’ in length. Popular with entry level boaters and used for general recreation, they are found in both salt and freshwater environments. They are frequently referred to as bowriders. New runabout sales have been slow to recover from the 2008 downturn, but there is a very large pre-owned market for these boats.

US Coast Guard Data Access Query System (DAQS)

A service from the 2018 Coast Guard Recreational Boating Safety Survey called Data Access Query System (DAQS). The DAQS allows a user to quickly sort the boating data off a number of pivot points.

Info-link: U.S. Powerboat Market Snapshot

US Powerboat Market includes all recreational powerboats (including PWCs) registered in the US as of year-end 2019. Not included are sailboats and self-propelled craft such as canoes and kayaks.

Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) Job One, Dec. 2020

RBS Job One is the flagship publication for the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Recreational Boating Safety (RBS). Its purpose is to inform all members of the Auxiliary of current developments affecting their job performance in conducting the core mission assigned by the Coast Guard and to share best practices.

NRBSS Participation Survey Final Report, October 2020

This report delivers information about the number and profiles of persons that went out on the water in recreational boats and households with at least one member who boated in 2018.

2019 Outdoor Participation Report

The 2019 Outdoor Participation Report, from the Outdoor Foundation,.

2019 Executive Summary of Recreational Boating Statistics

The executive summary of the 2019 Recreational Boating Statistics.

Number of Deaths by Vessel Type 2019

Number of boating deaths by vessel type, in 2019.

Distribution of 2019 Boating Deaths by State

2019 boating deaths distribution in the United States

Fatal Boating Accidents by Location

Fatal boating accidents by location, in the continental U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Boating Deaths by Vessel Power (2019)

2019 Boating deaths, by vessel power, including human-power, motor, sail and others.

Percent of Deaths by Vessel Type, 2005-2019

Graph of boating deaths showing percentage by vessel type, from 2005 to 2019.

Annual Recreational Boating Fatality Rates 2000-2019

A graph and data table showing annual fatality rates, with motorized occurrences broken out.

2019 Recreational Boating Statistics

Recreational Boating Statistics 2019, the 61st annual report, contains statistics on recreational boating accidents and state vessel registration. This publication is a result of the coordinated effort of the Coast Guard and those states and territories that have Federally-approved boat numbering and casualty reporting systems.

Info-link: U.S. Large Cruiser Market Snapshot

Large Cruisers are fiberglass, inboard, stern drive and outboard boats that are between 27’ and 32’ in length. They typically offer extensive amenities, including the ability to take shelter from weather. They are common in both salt and larger freshwater environments and are usually used for general recreation and relaxation.