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The future of boating is easier, cleaner and more versatile
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As I reflected on the year, three focus areas rose to the surface: accessibility, sustainability and versatility. A lot of“ ilities,” I know, but these are what manufacturers, dealers and marina operators are prioritizing for the future.
I can’ t count how many times people have told me“ We need to make boating easier.” New and returning boaters need an approachable entry point, and the lifestyle needs to be realistic for retired people, families and young adults.
Technology is increasingly tied to accessibility, from its integration into boats to its use in dealerships and marinas. Onboard, digital tools are removing the barriers that kill confidence on the water. In dealerships and marinas, they make scheduling service, reserving rentals and finalizing purchases easier.
Sustainability efforts are also increasing. From manufacturing operations, product design and environmental stewardship, companies are working toward more responsible practices. Millennials will become the main buyer in a few years, and their expectations are different. Many want to spend with brands that reflect their values – from how facilities are powered and products are built, to how the use of those products will impact the environment. Along with consumer preferences, regulatory pressures will also provide strong incentives for change.
And then there’ s versatility. This came up in every segment we covered this year. As the cost of entry climbs, so do expectations. Whether they own a towboat, fishing boat, pontoon or PWC, boaters want more than a single-purpose watercraft. They want comfort, luxury, reliability and performance bundled in one package.
Of course there are other factors shifting within our industry, but these stood out as I revisited 2025 conversations and analyzed data from Boating Industry’ s Market Data Book. The report, which includes industry research, OEM insight and dealer and marina perspectives, reinforced what I’ ve heard all year – boating needs lower barriers and broadened participation.
Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of NMMA, summed it up well when he told Boating Industry that expanding participation by introducing new people and re-engaging former boaters represents the industry’ s greatest opportunity. After nearly a year immersed in this industry in a new way, I’ m grateful to the manufacturers, dealers and marina operators who shared how they are working toward that goal. When best practices are shared, the entire industry can learn and grow.
I hope to have more of these conversations at the annual Boating Industry Elevate Summit in January. Your passion is what builds the boats, companies, experiences and stories that make our industry, and I look forward to learning about what you do. See you in 2026.
BOATING INDUSTRY( ISSN # 1543-4400) is published 8 times per year: February, March, May, June, August, October, November, and December – by EPG Brand Acceleration, 7760 France Avenue South, Suite 810, Bloomington, MN 55435. Periodicals postage paid at St. Paul, MN and additional mailing offices.
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4 november / december 2025 www. boatingindustry. com