Last week, BusinessWire and several other industry and finance publications highlighted a recently released overview of the market for Personal Watercraft and other small crafts.
The 10-year Small Boats Market Outlook Report noted that “fishing and adventure drive demand amid electrification and smart navigation Innovations,” and detailed projections for 2025-2034.
Focusing on watercraft under 30 feet in length, used for recreational, commercial, patrol, and fishing purposes, the report includes data and forecasts small motorboats and sailboats, dinghies, inflatable boats, personal watercraft, and skiffs.
“Small Boats Market is valued at USD 35.6 billion in 2025,” the report states, adding, “Further, the market is expected to grow by a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 12.0% to reach global sales of USD 98.7 billion in 2034.”
According to Business Wire’s review of the report, “Growing interest in water-based leisure activities, rising disposable incomes, and the increased accessibility of boating have made small boats a popular choice for individual buyers and families seeking outdoor experiences. Moreover, their lower operating and maintenance costs compared to larger yachts make them attractive for both novice and seasoned boating enthusiasts.”
The report noted that, in the beginning of this year, interest in boat shows and other small watercraft events have returned to pre-pandemic levels.
Key components driving the uptick in the market, according to the report, include cleaner alternatives to traditional fuel-powered engines; features such as GPS autopilot, integrated sonar, and mobile app controls providing navigation assistance, performance monitoring, and real-time system diagnostics; modular and lightweight designs, appealing to urban buyers and casual weekend users with limited storage space; and the growth of online sales and rentals.
You can read the full review by BusinessWire below, and WCJ would love to hear our readers’ thoughts and predictions about the future of the PWC market.
Small Boats Market Outlook Report 2025-2034 | Fishing and Adventure Drive Demand Amid Electrification and Smart Navigation Innovations – ResearchAndMarkets.com
DUBLIN–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The “Small Boats Market Outlook 2025-2034: Market Share, and Growth Analysis By Product Type, By Material, By Application” report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com’s offering.
Small Boats Market is valued at USD 35.6 billion in 2025. Further the market is expected to grow by a CAGR of 12.0% to reach global sales of USD 98.7 billion in 2034
The small boats market comprises a diverse range of watercraft typically under 30 feet in length, used for recreational, commercial, patrol, and fishing purposes. These boats include motorboats, sailboats, dinghies, inflatable boats, personal watercraft, and skiffs.
Growing interest in water-based leisure activities, rising disposable incomes, and the increased accessibility of boating have made small boats a popular choice for individual buyers and families seeking outdoor experiences. Moreover, their lower operating and maintenance costs compared to larger yachts make them attractive for both novice and seasoned boating enthusiasts.
In commercial and security applications, small boats serve critical roles in law enforcement, coastal surveillance, and transport operations, especially in shallow or inland waterways. As environmental concerns rise, the market is also witnessing a gradual shift toward electric propulsion systems and sustainable materials. With manufacturers innovating around portability, comfort, and energy efficiency, the small boats segment is experiencing a period of steady, multifaceted growth globally.
In 2024, the small boats market recorded notable growth fueled by strong consumer interest in recreational boating, especially in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Boat shows and marine expos returned to pre-pandemic levels, stimulating enthusiasm and showcasing innovations in hull design, hybrid engines, and onboard connectivity. Electrification was a key theme, with several manufacturers launching compact electric outboard motors and integrating solar-powered components to meet sustainability expectations. Government subsidies and green boating initiatives encouraged adoption of low-emission models in select coastal cities.
The fishing boat segment remained dominant, driven by both professional and sport fishing communities, while adventure boating saw an uptick among younger buyers looking for modular, lightweight vessels. On the commercial side, demand rose for fast, maneuverable patrol boats and rescue craft used by coast guards and maritime agencies. Additionally, digital platforms for boat rentals, peer-to-peer sharing, and online purchases gained popularity, further expanding consumer access and reshaping traditional sales channels.
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the small boats market is expected to evolve with greater emphasis on electrification, autonomous navigation features, and smart onboard systems. Manufacturers are likely to scale up the production of electric and hybrid small boats, aided by improving battery technologies and expanding charging infrastructure at marinas. Lightweight composite materials will gain traction, helping reduce emissions and enhance fuel efficiency without compromising performance. The integration of GPS-based autopilot, sonar systems, and remote diagnostics will appeal to a new generation of tech-savvy boaters seeking safety and convenience.
Emerging markets in Latin America and Africa will offer growth opportunities due to rising tourism, coastal development, and small-scale fishing activities. However, affordability and regulatory compliance will remain critical challenges, particularly as stricter environmental regulations around fuel emissions and boat construction materials begin to take hold. Overall, innovation, digital engagement, and sustainable manufacturing will define the next chapter of growth in the global small boats industry.
Key Insights Small Boats Market
Electrification and Sustainable Propulsion: Electric outboard motors and hybrid propulsion systems are gaining popularity as boaters and regulators seek cleaner alternatives to traditional fuel-powered engines, promoting eco-conscious boating practices.
Smart Boating Features and Connectivity: GPS autopilot, integrated sonar, and mobile app controls are transforming the boating experience, providing navigation assistance, performance monitoring, and real-time system diagnostics.
Modular and Lightweight Designs: Manufacturers are focusing on collapsible, easy-to-transport boats made from durable yet lightweight composites, appealing to urban buyers and casual weekend users with limited storage space.
Growth of Online Sales and Rentals: Digital platforms for purchasing, renting, or sharing small boats are streamlining customer access and reshaping traditional distribution models with added convenience and price transparency.
Renewed Interest in Recreational Boating: Post-pandemic lifestyle shifts have led to increased participation in outdoor and water-based recreation, boosting demand for small, personal boats among new and younger demographics.
Rising Participation in Water-Based Leisure Activities: Interest in fishing, day cruising, and watersports continues to climb globally, encouraging first-time buyers and hobbyists to invest in small boats for accessible recreation.
Expansion of Coastal Tourism and Marine Infrastructure: Investments in marinas, boat ramps, and waterfront amenities are creating favorable conditions for small boat use in both developed and emerging economies.
Technological Innovations in Design and Materials: Advancements in hull design, corrosion-resistant materials, and user-friendly controls are improving performance, safety, and ease of use for new boat owners.
Government Support for Sustainable Boating: Subsidies, tax incentives, and environmental policies are encouraging the adoption of electric boats and clean technologies, particularly in eco-sensitive coastal regions.
Affordability and Regulatory Compliance Pressures: High upfront costs for electric and tech-integrated small boats, coupled with evolving safety and environmental standards, present barriers for entry-level buyers and may slow market penetration in price-sensitive regions.
Your Takeaways From this Report
• Global Small Boats market size and growth projections (CAGR), 2024-2034
• Impact of recent changes in geopolitical, economic, and trade policies on the demand and supply chain of Small Boats.
• Small Boats market size, share, and outlook across 5 regions and 27 countries, 2025- 2034.
• Small Boats market size, CAGR, and Market Share of key products, applications, and end-user verticals, 2025-2034.
• Short and long-term Small Boats market trends, drivers, restraints, and opportunities.
• Porter’s Five Forces analysis, Technological developments in the Small Boats market, Small Boats supply chain analysis.
• Small Boats trade analysis, Small Boats market price analysis, Small Boats Value Chain Analysis.
• Profiles of 5 leading companies in the industry- overview, key strategies, financials, and products.
• Latest Small Boats market news and developments.
Companies Featured
AB Volvo Penta
Polaris Industries Inc
Bombardier Recreational Products Inc
Brunswick Corporation
Beneteau Group SA
Malibu Boats Inc.
Ferretti Group S.p.A.
Sea Ray Boats Inc.
MasterCraft Boat Company LLC
Azimut Benetti S.p.A.
Marine Products Corporation
Boston Whaler Inc.
Sunseeker International Holdings Limited
S2 Yachts Inc.
Porter Inc.
Formula Boats Inc.
Pursuit Boats LLC
Grady-White Boats Inc.
Cobalt Boats LLC
Everglades Boats LLC
Seabring Marine Industries Inc.
Sea Fox Boat Company
Four Winns Boats LLC
Stingray Boats Inc.
Bavaria Yachtbau GmbH
Correct Craft Inc.
Crestliner Marine Holdings Inc.
WeLLCraft Marine Inc.
Carver Yachts LLC
