Boats, boats everywhere. Take a seagull’s-eye view of United States’ creeks, rivers, and coastal waters. You’ll see a dramatic increase in the number of boats on the water during the Summer of 2020. If you’ve been on the water, you’ve seen the additional boat traffic. And, you’ve likely experienced the rocking and rolling from the increased boat wakes.
In marinas nationwide, boats who never leave their slips have shaken off the cobwebs and ventured out for the day. Boat dealers and yacht brokers have been swamped with business. Let’s explore this unusual phenomenon, and see how it has given the boating world a much-needed boost.
Deeper Dive into Boating Growth
An off-the-charts rise in boat sales is the reason behind the increase in boating traffic across the country. In July 2020, The New York Times profiled several boat dealerships that are experiencing record sales. In many cases, first-time buyers are springing for mid-range rather than entry-level vessels.
New Boat Sales
MarineMax, a nationally ranked dealership with 64 stores in 23 states, reports that sales are higher in every category. In addition, almost three-quarters of online requests come from first-time buyers, which is much higher than normal.
In Florida, four-location Quality Boats sold more boats in May 2020 than during any month in its 46-year history. The company has hired its own contractors to deliver boats by truck transport, as freight companies are experiencing huge delivery backlogs.
Finally, Kelly’s Port, a dealership in Osage Beach, Missouri, has under five percent of its customary boat inventory on hand. This middle-America boat dealership has also experienced remarkable new boat sales.
Pre-Owned Boat Sales
According to the Boats Group, May 2020 marketplace reports show that pre-owned boat listing websites are seeing their own sales booms. Traffic, listing views, and leads are up dramatically on sites such as YachtWorld, Boat Trader, and boats.com.
Source of the Boating Boom
So, what’s behind this dramatic upswing in nationwide boating activities? Here’s the simple answer: COVID-19. Families continue to be impacted by widespread social distancing rules, and have endured cancelations of spring and summer vacations (and kids’ camps). During a search for a fun, low-risk activity that everyone can enjoy together, boating has emerged as a very popular choice.
Of course, observing social distancing rules is also important during boat trips. First, go boating only with immediate family members, and avoid raft-ups and other high-density gatherings. By following these protocols, you’ll minimize everyone’s risks while maximizing fun times aboard.
Speaking of good times on the water, these new boat owners will give their vessel a catchy name that resonates with their boating experience. Naturally, these new owners may not want other boaters to snag their special boat name. Lots of other boaters may feel the same way.
Fortunately, Boat Name Registry (BNR) has a solution. As a BNR member, your boat name will be protected in your home port, and you’ll also receive several other valuable benefits.
Learn more about BNR membership, and claim your boat name now.
