NMMA data shows softness across boating market in November

The National Marine Manufacturers Association’s (NMMA) latest summary on the recreational boating segment, featuring data through November 2025, showed retail and wholesale activity remained under pressure as elevated interest rates and cautious consumer sentiment continued to influence purchasing behavior.

Freshwater fishing boats showed relative stability compared to other categories, while more discretionary segments, including pontoons, wakesports and cruisers, experienced retail declines.

Key economic indicators continued to reflect a cautious consumer environment in November. The conference board’s Consumer Confidence Index fell to 88.7, its lowest level since April, signaling restrained holiday spending as year-end approached.

Manufacturing activity remained in expansion territory, with the U.S. Manufacturing PMI at 52.0, though momentum has moderated compared to earlier in the year. Housing starts held steady at 1.4 million annualized units, while the 30-year fixed mortgage rate remained elevated at 6.3%.

With November data now reported, the recreational boating industry entered 2026 facing a moderated demand environment.

Source: Boating Industry, NMMA