

OCTOBER 1, 2023 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2024
OCTOBER 1, 2023 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2024
Recreational boating in the U.S. and Canada saw numerous headwinds across multiple fronts throughout the fiscal year as the industry and consumer market continued to normalize coming out of the unexpected boom of the pandemic—yet consumer interest for getting on the water remains strong.
It’s in times like these that members need their trade associations most. NMMA worked diligently throughout the year to protect your business and achieve success against our top strategic objectives. As a member-owned trade group, we continue to drive toward the following Board-approved priorities:
1. Solidify NMMA’s proactive political influence at the federal, state and international levels
2. Drive and advance a proactive environmental and safety agenda
3. Attract and retain the next generation of boating consumers
4. Become the data hub for industry and consumer trends
As you will see in this annual report, the list of accomplishments is vast. Notably, we prevented the most far-reaching boater access restriction ever proposed in our nation from taking effect. This was achieved through the execution of a relentless year-round and multi-pronged influence campaign that stalled NOAA’s ill-conceived vessel speed rule and prevented the regulation from being implemented.
In partnership with the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA), we launched Propelling Our Future—an education initiative that successfully united the global recreational marine industry, bringing forward the most comprehensive study ever produced on the best pathways towards marine industry decarbonization.
And while the NMMA Advocacy team was expanding its presence and fighting hard for members in Washington, D.C. and Ottawa, Discover Boating played an invaluable role amid slowing sales by helping to connect with future boaters, keeping boating part of the conversation, and retaining the new boaters who’ve recently joined the lifestyle.
Thank you for your extraordinary support and continued confidence in NMMA. It is an honor to serve our member-owners and the recreational marine industry at-large.
Sincerely,
President & CEO
National Marine Manufacturers Association
The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) is the leading trade organization for the North American recreational boating industry. NMMA member companies produce more than 85% of the boats, engines, trailers, marine accessories and gear used by millions of boaters in North America.
NMMA serves its members and their sales and service networks by improving the business environment for recreational boating including providing domestic and international sales and marketing opportunities, reducing unnecessary government regulation, decreasing the cost of doing business, and helping grow boating participation. As one of the largest producers of boat and sport shows in the U.S., NMMA connects the recreational boating industry with the boating consumer year-round.
Create transformational experiences
OUR VISION
Recreational boating is the #1 leisure activity in North America
OUR MISSION
To ensure the growth and success of the recreational boating industry
Respect | Serve Others | Be Curious Collaborate | Focus on the Consumer
NMMA will shape the future of recreational boating through advocacy, self-regulation, business insights and Discover Boating promotion
• Ensure the health and success of NMMA and Discover Boating and powerful voice for the recreational boating industry, working to strengthen and grow boating.
• Convene, unify and expand the North American recreational boating market
• Foster a favorable business environment for members
• Cultivate a best-in-class boating experience for consumers
• Encourage continuous improvement of recreational boating products
• Champion industry information, learning and knowledge
NMMA members are vested industry stakeholders driving the association’s strategic initiatives to advocate for marine businesses and recreational boaters while working to expand the market. NMMA membership provides your business with a distinct advantage, connecting you with market research and exclusive regulatory alerts, economic impact updates, and programs vital to success in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing global economy.
$57.7 BILLION
Annual U.S. sales of boats, marine products and services*
1.2 MILLION
New and pre-owned boats sold in the U.S.*
11.6 MILLION Boats registered in the U.S.
service, guidance and support.
Bill Yeargin Correct Craft (Chairperson)
Craig Clawson Magic Tilt Trailers (Vice Chairperson)
Aine Denari Navico Group, Brunswick (Secretary)
Eric Braitmayer I MTRA (Treasurer)
Ann Baldree Chaparral and Robalo Boats
Ron Bailey SmartPlug Systems
Jason Blackburn Faria Beede Electronics
Gus Blakely Suzuki Marine USA
Bill Boehman Yamaha
John Buelow Mercury Marine
Kevin Carlan Yanmar
Kris Carroll Grady-White Boats
Bernard Guy BRP
Matt Peat Transhield (MACD Representative)
Scott Porter Formula (BMD Representative)
Ben Speciale Yamaha (EMD Representative)
Steve Heese Chris-Craft (Past Chair)
Frederick Hogberg Volvo
Greg Lentine NorCross
Mike Lindberg Ilmor Engineering
John Livingston Cutwater/Ranger Tugs
Matt McKinney PCM Crusader
Joe Neber Contender
Eric Nelson Mercury Marine (NMMA Canada Representative)
Robert Oswell Roswell Marine (WSIA Representative)
Thomas Slikkers Tiara Yachts
Doug Smoker Smoker Craft
Jack Springer Malibu Boats
John Swick Safe Harbor Marinas (AMI Representative)
Steve Tilders Xylem
Rick Tinker Skier’s Choice
Josie Tucci RightBoat (Sail America Representative)
Bill Watters Syntec Industries
Matt Wood ASA Electronics
Boat Manufacturers Division Engine Manufacturers Division Marine Accessory and Components Division Industry Association
NMMA EFFORTS ON BEHALF OF MEMBER BUSINESSES IN FY2024
NMMA is actively engaged in policy and regulatory issues at both the state and federal levels to ensure the growth and success of the recreational boating industry. NMMA is the industry’s first line of defense against harmful policies and regulations, and the NMMA team continually educates and engages key decision-makers at all government levels to protect and defend Americans’ access to oceans, lakes and inland waterways. To lead this critical work, NMMA welcomed Robyn Boerstling as senior vice president of government relations in fiscal year 2024, further enhancing the association's proactive advocacy.
Filed comprehensive scope comments, met with dozens of members of Congress, and hosted educational webinars contributing to the USITC's October 2024 decision to halt anti-dumping investigations affecting marine products.
Led industry-wide government relations and public affairs campaign successfully extending the rule review period at the OMB and delaying implementation, while advocating for a more effective technology-based solution.
Organized more than 250 American Boating Congress attendees and conducted 100+ congressional meetings, successfully engaged both presidential campaigns, hosting impactful events at the DNC and RNC and educating each political party on our top priorities.
Engaged with 32 states, securing major wins including PFAS exemptions in Maine, safe harbor language in California, and protecting wakesurfing and personal watercraft in key states, effectively defending the boating industry nationwide.
Engaged policymakers and regulatory officials to address industry concerns and organized manufacturing facility visits in California, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Florida, giving state and federal lawmakers firsthand engagement with the boating industry’s economic impact, manufacturing processes, and policy needs.
Partnered with members of Congress and key stakeholders to publish editorials and op-eds, securing over 200 media stories and generating 130 million impressions to elevate the recreational boating industry’s contributions and concerns. Notable media appearances include a high-impact segment on Fox News’ "America Reports," numerous local media hits supporting wakesurfing, and consistent coverage of vessel speed rule issues across major outlets.
Working together with members and global recreational marine partners, NMMA led efforts in 2024 that continued to advance the industry’s work to decarbonize the recreational marine sector. Through the launch of an industry- wide initiative—Propelling Our Future—NMMA helped unite the global industry, driving an integrated approach to ongoing improvements in environmental performance, advocating for policies that support innovation and consumer safety, and educating stakeholders on the variety of technologies needed to propel the industry forward.
In partnership with the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA), NMMA shared foundation-setting findings from the Pathways to Propulsion Decarbonization for the Recreational Marine Industry report fielded by leading global engineering consulting firm Ricardo plc. The research outlines propulsion technologies to propel the industry toward decarbonization and reveals that due to the unique nature of recreational boats’ on-water environment, a variety of technology solutions must be considered.
Through the ICOMIA partnership, NMMA launched a global initiative to begin educating industry, policymakers, consumers and other key stakeholders on the work being done around the global recreational marine industry to continue delivering sustainable solutions for long-term success. This education initiative included the launch of a comprehensive website, detailing the Pathways research findings through numerous resources including infographics and in-depth presentations in 20 countries around the globe by NMMA, ICOMIA and their respective members, a global social media campaign, and robust communications and public affairs.
Rooted in findings from the Pathways research, executed the successful launch of an innovative pilot program at St. Andrews Marina in Panama City, Fla., in partnership with Suzuki Marine, making sustainable marine fuels available for the first time to boaters. This in-market testing included new high-performance, 93 octane, ethanol-free premium gasoline. Results from the pilot helped demonstrate the viability of renewable drop-in fuels and their lack of any negative impact on range or performance.
Over the past 12 months, Discover Boating, powered by the NMMA and the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, has worked to attract new audiences to the boating lifestyle and retain current boaters. Current and future boaters are being engaged at every turn through Discover Boating’s year-round, fully integrated omni-channel strategy—centered around the "See You Out Here" campaign—that’s helping the next generation and new audiences see themselves as part of the boating lifestyle. This initiative is driven by a robust digital community, boat shows, experiential activations, and brand partnerships. The industry-wide effort connects with people identified in Discover Boating research as most likely to be interested in boating—as many as 91 million—ensuring they not only feel welcome, but informed and excited about boat ownership and the benefits of life on the water.
951,000
Followers on Discover Boating’s Instagram, TikTok, X, and Facebook platforms, accounting for 504,000 engagements and 123 million impressions (+8% change YOY) in FY2024.
$10.4 MILLION
In media value from public relations efforts, public service announcements (PSA) and a satellite media tour (SMT). Coverage included 24,000 stories featured in media outlets, including national placements such as Fox & Friends, Fox News and Travel + Leisure, as well as PSA airings on hundreds of television stations in the U.S. and Canada.
6.6 MILLION 12 MILLION
Visitors to Discover Boating’s websites in the U.S. and Canada (up 23% year-over-year), resulting in 1.67 million introductions to manufacturers and dealers through website referrals and boat shows. Discover Boating effectively reached a significant target audience, with the number of female visitors to DiscoverBoating.com growing to 33% (up 31% yearover-year), and DiscoverBoating.ca reaching 38% (up 34% year-over-year) revealing that when connected with authentically, women are interested in boating and motivated to take action.
Social influencer interactions (including engagements and views), up 60% from last year, as a result of 145 Instagram and TikTok content creator partners who shared personal boating experiences with their loyal followers, reinforcing boating messaging in an authentic way. Engaging next generation audiences through the content creators they trust helps Discover Boating improve its impact.
7.3 BILLION
Impressions (up 102% from last year) generated to build positive awareness for boating and excite the next generation of boaters through a variety of touchpoints including paid media content, social media, public relations initiatives, in-market activations/pop-up events as well as strategic partnerships with Progressive Insurance® , Golf Channel and NBC.
NMMA is one of the world’s leading producers of consumer boat shows, hosting shows under the industry's Discover Boating brand in some of the largest markets in the U.S., including New York, Chicago, Miami, and Atlanta. Discover Boating boat shows provide the recreational boating industry with quality sales venues that engage the next generation of boaters while retaining and growing the existing boat owner community.
Located in some of the top boating markets around the U.S., Discover Boating boat shows provide an essential platform to further the industry's consumer expansion, generate new business and support government advocacy. Boat shows owned by NMMA under the Discover Boating brand, are impactful sales venues that engage boating consumers, and help the industry connect with local political and business leaders to showcase industry innovation, all while fostering community relationships that promote growth. In fiscal year 2024, in partnership with NMMA members and exhibitors, the association secured a new home for the Discover Boating Chicago Boat Show in Rosemont, IL moving it to an enhanced location in 2025, expanding the show's presence throughout the Midwest.
272,000
Attended the 2024 Discover Boating boat shows, in partnership with Progressive Insurance®. Floorplan expansions, enhancements to the show experience and expansion of the Boat Finder tool all worked to attract current boaters and next-gen customers to these Discover Boating events.
Elements including the Discover Boating Beach Club in New York, Chicago, New England and Atlanta, featured a host of activities and entertainment to immerse attendees in the boating lifestyle and attract new audiences to the boat show experience.
Making it easier than ever for boat shoppers to explore new boats, Boat Finder continued to grow in 2024 with 15K people going directly from Boat Finder to brand and exhibitor websites, helping boost their web traffic during crucial boat show selling season.
The International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX), the recreational marine industry’s largest technical trade event in North America, is powered globally by METSTRADE, a global event for professionals in the leisure marine equipment industry. NMMA owns and produces IBEX with RAI Amsterdam. and 50 technical sessions attracting more than 8,600 industry professionals from 70 countries.
The sold-out Industry Breakfast welcomed 900 attendees for a state of the recreational boating industry address and award presentations. IBEX Education Conference welcomed more than 60 students, providing technical training from industry experts.
METSTRADE, the world’s largest B2B trade exhibition of equipment, materials and services for the international marine leisure industry, is produced by RAI Amsterdam in association with the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA). NMMA organizes and operates the U.S.A. and Canada Pavilions to make it easy for member marine companies to reach the global market.
were part of the U.S.A. and Canada Pavilions for METSTRADE 2023 in Amsterdam, making the show an overall success for members.
ICAST is the world’s largest sportfishing trade show. NMMA organizes the Marine Accessories Pavilion (MAP) to provide members with the opportunity to promote their products, introduce the latest innovations and get in front of key buyers. The show continues to grow with participants sharing favorable results.
were part of the Marine Accessories Pavilion (MAP) at ICAST 2024 in July in Orlando, exceeding exhibit space sales projections. ICAST continues to give members exposure at a marine-related trade show that delivers positive results.
NMMA Certification is the premier product compliance program in the U.S. for boats, yachts, boat trailers, personal watercraft (PWC) and marine oils. Its mission is to assist marine manufacturers in delivering safer, higher quality products to boating consumers. Throughout the year, NMMA protected and led the industry in both domestic and international technical affairs, and spearheaded improvements to key North American product construction and safety standards. The association also successfully opposed the introduction of potentially harmful standards and championed favorable interpretations of existing standards and regulations that support the industry's growth and innovation.
boat brands received NMMA Certification in FY2024.
157 of boats sold in the U.S. are NMMA Certified. 85%
The ABYC A-4 Fire Fighting Equipment and E-2 Cathodic Protection standards were adopted by the boat and yacht certification program.
3
new standards were adopted by the PWC Certification program.
Two new SAE and one ISO standards were adopted by the PWC certification program.
550+ compliance specialists trained through online testing .
Assisted in the Analysis of the Effectiveness of ABYC’s Voluntary Standards at Improving Recreational Boating Safety report in conjunction with the USCG, ultimately validating the efficacy of NMMA Certification at increasing boating safety.
Expanded the warning and safety label offerings by introducing the fuel system pressure, visibility from the helm, and portable fire extinguisher locator labels.
NMMA is the industry’s foremost resource for recreational boating statistics and technical data. The association collects, analyzes and distributes industry, economic and consumer insights to members and industry stakeholders to continuously expand their line of sight into the latest economic and industry trends shaping the ever-evolving boating marketplace.
that provide NMMA members, recreational boating businesses and industry partners with key insights into marketplace performance, helping to inform strategic decisions and keep industry stakeholders up to date on the economic trends shaping consumer demand.
were published in the U.S. and Canada, providing comprehensive new and historical data on retail and sales trends (new, pre-owned, state-by-state, import/export) across all boat segments.
Exclusive to members, NMMA offers the most in-depth look at wholesale sales, in addition to timely retail insights. These reports are developed using key data from engine member manufacturers provided insights on historical and monthly field inventory and registration velocity.
of NMMA statistical reports in FY2024 reinforced the vital role of industry data and insights to members and stakeholders.
NMMA Canada leads the charge in protecting and growing recreational boating across Canada through strategic public policy advocacy, market expansion initiatives, and consumer engagement programs like Discover Boating. Through Canadian member-focused programs related to export development, and government relations, our team is committed to representing, advocating for, and advancing the interests of the recreational boating industry across Canada.
and launch of BoatingUnited.ca, an online grassroots advocacy platform, to address strategic issues such as the luxury tax, Vessel Operations Restrictions Regulations (VORR), mandatory wear for PFDs, potential engine noise limits and more.
in CanExport funding significantly bolstered the ability of Canadian marine businesses to expand into international markets and empowered NMMA Canada members to participate in global trade shows, dramatically enhancing their presence and positioning Canada as a competitive player in the recreational boating industry worldwide.
Canada's counterpart to the American Boating Congress brought together key stakeholders and policymakers to effectively advocate for the boating industry's top priorities. Over 100+ Parliamentarians and industry leaders attended the Parliamentary Reception by the historic Rideau Canal and took part in boat tours.
through application of the Memorandum of Understanding with Transport Canada that allows NMMA Certified boats to enter Canada using ABYC standards and with a simplified declaration of conformity and streamlined process.
expanded campaign activities in FY2024, adding more Dealer Finder geographical results and translating paid search campaigns into French to better serve the consumers researching boating.
on DiscoverBoating.ca also saw an increase with 11,500 introductions to Canadian dealers – up 106% compared to last year. The tool had more than 25,000 users and nearly 30,000 pageviews this year.
THE VISION, LEADERSHIP, AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF OUR MEMBERS
NMMA’s most prestigious recognition honoring individuals who have made or continue to make substantial contributions toward the advancement of the marine industry in North America.
STEVE POTTS
Scout Boats
SCHWABERO
Brunswick Corporation
NMMA industry awards celebrate the contributions of individuals whose vision, leadership and accomplishments have profoundly shaped the recreational boating industry.
Honors individuals who, during their careers, have made outstanding contributions to the marine accessories industry through leadership, creativity, and personal motivation.
Honors individuals or groups within the marine industry who have made outstanding contributions to the sport of boating for the benefit of the recreational boating industry and boating public.
Fluid Motion
NMMA
ANDY ADAMS
Boating Industry
Canada
Honors individuals who help grow and protect the recreational boating industry and have demonstrated dedication to the long-term health of the industry.
CAPTAIN FRED GAMBOA Andreas' Toy Charters
INNOVATION AWARDS RECOGNIZE MANUFACTURERS AND SUPPLIERS
who bring new, innovative products for the boating industry to market.
BOAT CARE AND MAINTENANCE
PowerTech! Propellers, Seascour by PowerTech!/Hendry
BOATBUILDING METHODS AND MATERIALS (DUAL WINNERS)
beSpline, Shaped Foam Kit and Infinity Luxury Woven Vinyl, Infinity Grip
BOATYARD AND MARINA HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE
VoltSafe, VoltSafe Marine
(HONORABLE MENTION: Sunstream Boat Lifts, Sunstream Power System (SPS™)
DECK EQUIPMENT AND HARDWARE
Lippert, Lewmar® Venta™ Pontoon Winch
ELECTRIC MOTOR/BATTERY POWERED PROPULSION/HYBRIDS
TEMO, TEMO 450
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
ARCO Marine, Zeus High Energy Alternator Regulator
(HONORABLE MENTION: Navico Group, Mastervolt Mac Plus 48V)
ENTERTAINMENT
Hertz Marine, HTX 8H S-FL-G
FURNISHINGS AND INTERIOR PARTS
Roswell Marine, Auto-Rolling Fabric System
MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
Scanstrut, ATMOS 12V Integrated Airstation
OEM ELECTRONICS
SGarmin USA, GPSMAP® 9227 with Garmin BlueNet™
PROPULSION PARTS, PROPELLERS
Volvo Penta, Joystick Driving
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
WIF-Pro, WIF-Pro
CABIN CRUISERS, MOTOR YACHTS & TRAWLER
Boston Whaler, 365 Conquest
CENTER CONSOLE / WALKAROUND FISHING BOATS
HCB Yachts, HCB 48' Campeón
CONSUMER ELECTRONICS, MOBILE APPLICATIONS AND SOFTWARE
Skyhawk Oversea, Skyhawk Oversea
CUDDY CABINS, BOWRIDERS, AND DECK BOATS
Boston Whaler, 210 Vantage
DECK EQUIPMENT
Shadow-Caster LED Lighting, Eagle Ray Light Bar
(HONORABLE MENTION: MasterCraft Boat Company, Power Board Racks)
ELECTRIC MOTOR / BATTERY
POWERED PROPULSION / HYBRIDS AND BOATS
Nautical Ventures, ePropulsion eLite
FISHING EQUIPMENT, GEAR & TACKLE
TACO Marine, Open Water
Internal & Collapsible Carbon Fiber Outrigger Poles
FURNISHINGS & INTERIOR PARTS
SeaDek, Backlighted SeaDek
INBOARD ENGINES
Pleasurecraft Engine Group, PCM ZZ8S and ZZ8R Engines
OUTBOARD ENGINES
Mercury Racing (Mercury Marine), V8 500R
PERSONAL GEAR, SOFT GOODS
SeaSucker LLC, Basking Bag
PERSONAL WATERCRAFT
SEA-DOO, RXP-X
PROPULSION EQUIPMENT & PARTS
Dockmate, Dockmate DPS (HONORABLE MENTION: Yamaha Watercraft, Helm Master EX for Jet Boats)
FIBERGLASS
FISHING BOAT
Skeeter, WXR 2060
PONTOON BOATS
(DUAL WINNERS)
Harris, Crowne 250 and Barletta Boats, Barletta Lusso L25UCAT
FURNISHINGS (DUAL WINNERS)
Lillipad Marine, Easy Step Ladder and Premier Pontoons, Premier Angler
Recognizes boat and engine manufacturers who actively measure customer satisfaction and pursue continuous improvement to better serve their customers.
ALUMINUM OUTBOARD BOATS
Crestliner Boats
Lund Boat Company
Ranger
SeaArk
Tracker
DECK BOATS
Hurricane
NauticStar
FIBERGLASS BASS
BOATS
Bass Cat Boats
Nitro
Ranger
Skeeter Products
Triton
OUTBOARD BOATS
Aviara Boats
Axopar Boats
Blackfin Boats
Boston Whaler
Chaparral Boats Inc.
Chris-Craft
EdgeWater Boats
Everglades Boats
Formula Boats
Grady-White Boats
Jupiter Marine
Mako
Nitro
Parker Boats
Pursuit Boats
Ranger
Regal Marine
Regulator Marine
Robalo Boats LLC
SeaVee Boats
Sportsman Boats
Tahoe
Tiara Yachts
Triton
INBOARD EXPRESS CRUISER BOATS
Tiara Yachts
INBOARD
WATERSPORTS BOATS
ATX Surf Boats
Centurion Boats
MasterCraft Boat Company
Nautique Boat Company
Skier’s Choice Inc. Moomba Boats
Skier’s Choice Inc.
Supra Boats
Supreme Boats
Tige Boats
PONTOON BOATS
Avalon
Barletta Bennington
Crest Pontoons
Forest River, Inc.
G3 Boats
PONTOON BOATS (CONTINUED)
Godfrey Marine
Harris Pontoon Boats
Premier Marine
Ranger Regency
SmokerCraft, Inc. –Sunchaser
Sun Tracker
PERSONAL WATERCRAFT
Yamaha Watercraft
STERNDRIVE BOWRIDER BOATS
Chaparral Boats Inc.
Chris-Craft
Formula Boats
Monterey Boats
Regal Marine
STERNDRIVE CUDDY AND EXPRESS BOATS
Bayliner
INBOARD ENGINES
Ilmor
Indmar Marine Engines
Pleasurecraft Engine Group
OUTBOARD ENGINES
Honda Marine
Suzuki Marine USA, LLC
Tohatsu America
Corporation
Yamaha Motor Corporation
Additionally, 1,000 boat dealers were recognized for customer satisfaction excellence in sales and 759 boat dealers for excellence in continued service.
NMMA’s proactive political influence at the federal, state and international levels
and advance a proactive environmental and safety agenda
and retain the next generation of boating consumers
the data hub for industry and consumer trends
culture, resources, operations, and IT systems to drive our strategic priorities
Thank you to our members for your support— it is our privilege to serve your businesses.
For more information on NMMA programs serving the North American recreational boating industry, visit nmma.org.