There has been a definite trend over the last dozen or so years in the PWC industry to “go big or go home” – literally.
Like some of their human counterparts,, it seems PWC models have been struggling each year to stay trim, slim and svelte, and have instead settled into comfortably expanding each year.
Now, in some ways, this is not a negative … these larger models often include features like extended swim platforms, enhanced storage, and more powerful engines, making them appealing for families and those seeking a more luxurious experience. And despite the drawbacks, and the negative impact this trend imposes on the overall health of the PWC industry, there is little denying that the larger, more stable PWCS are a draw for the changing demographic of buyers, and the heavier emphasis both leisure and utility PWCS, such as those geared and outfitted for fishing.
Right smack dab in the middle of that “growing” trend Sea-Doo, without slowing down their push toward “bigger”, released the Sea-Doo Spark. As stated by WCJ head honcho Kevin Shaw in the Spark introductory article in November of 2013, “Sea-Doo’s introduction of the Spark is not a marketing gimmick or short-term ploy. It’s a tectonic shift in how the personal watercraft industry should operate.”
While this article makes no attempt to define and detail the impact of the Spark on the PWC industry, as well as the PWC culture, there is little doubt that the impact was significant. Likewise, in 2017, when Sea-Doo introduced the Spark Trixx, another ripple of something akin to excitement eddied through the PWC world. Shaw once again commented: “New for 2017, the Trixx is possibly the most unique runabout built in the last decade. Designed for flatwater freestyle fun, the Trixx comes with a redesigned vertically-adjustable aluminum steering next and handlebar setup permitting for 6-inches of rise; heavy-duty padded foot wedges, and an electronically-adjusted, re-calibrated VTS trim system with an additional 20-degrees of range.”
As lauded as the new Trixx was, it still was an unlikely decision for many Spark owners to abandon their somewhat-recently purchased Spark to buy a new Trixx.
And, now, thanks to GreenHulk – there’s a way to have your cake and eat it, too.
A recent post on the GreenHulk Facebook page ran down a detailed list of what is needed to turn a Spark into a Spark Trixx – a six-product project that will add control, style and the ability to perform stunt-riding tricks on your everyday Spark.
Products offered by GreenHulk to make the transformation include:
Read the full press release below for more details:
Tricks. Control. Style.
Everything You Need to Upgrade Your Ride.
The one-of-a-kind Spark Trixx™ is built for fun—and now, so is yours. Whether you’re throwing tail stands or just looking to level up your control, we’ve got the parts to transform your Spark into a full-on trick machine.
Here’s What You’ll Need:
✅ Extended Range Variable Trim System https://www.4-tecperformance.com/index.php…
Double the trim range. Control nose angle on the fly for more pop and better landings.
If you glance back through The Watercraft Journal archives, there are a couple things that can be said about the slew of articles featuring FuelTech:
1) typically, they stuffed full of detailed, tech-heavy information, and 2) they almost invariably close out having helped make your ski quicker, more powerful, more responsive, and, in general, just better all around.
That’s what FuelTech is all about, and they are renowned for their mastery of the high-tech side of the PWC industry. But FuelTech can come in handy for some less high-level PWC needs, also.
While visiting the FuelTech website can result in a rabbit-hole trip through the specs and potential of fuel systems, ECUs, wiring, ignition systems and relays. tucked in amongst the performance accessories is a page of products that you just may not expect from Fuel Tech – we’re talkin’ T-shirts and hoodies, ball caps and kids-wear, footwear, stickers and even FuelTech’s own Yerba Mate.
And if you want your gear and goodies to match the premium quality of the Fuel Tech performance products you put in your PWC, then be sure to check out FuelTech’s Anderson Dick Collection — a tribute to the legacy and passion of Anderson Dick, a pioneer in the automotive industry and the founder and CEO of FuelTech.
Leading off the collection are the FuelTech AFD Sunglasses. Designed for motorsport enthusiasts, this accessory perfectly combines elegance, comfort, and durability, with key features like UV400 Protection provided by high-quality lenses with full UVA and UVB protection, polarized lenses to reduce glare and enhance visual clarity, and durable, lightweight polycarbonate frames.
Also part of the collection is a premium version of the Fuel Tech Yerba Mate, the AFD Yerba Mate w/ edible gold flakes (Erva-Mate com flocos de ouro) merges the tradition of native yerba mate consumption with a visual representation of “victory,” using 24k edible gold.
“Hold My Chimarrão,” a phrase coined by Anderson Dick during the breaking of the world power record in the United States, is a mantra, a symbol of achievement and perseverance. Like champions’ trophies, gold represents celebration; in a unique yerba mate blend, it’s a tribute to the relentless pursuit of new challenges and the unwavering drive to claim the top spot on the podium, both on and off the track.
Next up is the Back to FuelTech T-Shirt, crafted from 100% premium cotton, this t-shirt features all-day comfort with its short sleeves and classic crew neck design, a silkscreen print on the chest and back, screen-printed inner label on the yoke for added comfort, and a sleek black taffeta clip label stitched on the right hem, highlighting attention to detail.
A second T-Shirt in the collection is the 100% cotton short-sleeve Calibra Turbo T-Shirt, entirely based on the Turbo Calibra details. On the front print is the brand logo and signature of Anderson Dick collection and on the back, a visualization of the car design.
It’s hard to believe that we’re already nearing the end of July and hitting the midway mark of the race season that runs, in general terms, from late spring to early fall. While this season has screamed by like a defending champion down two buoys, with the throttle pinned and their hair on fire in the final lap of moto 3 at Havasu, there is plenty of racing action left.
Case in point: there’s just over 2 weeks left before Round 3 of the 2025 Monster Energy P1 AquaX Championship series lands in Sheboygan, Wisconsin for the 3rd Annual Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge.
The event also serves as the second event in the Powerboat P1-produced Monster Energy Triple Crown Series of offshore racing and the third round of the American Power Boat Association Offshore National Championship.
Strolling back through the first two rounds of AquaX action this year, the AquaX season kicked off Big Easy style on June 27-29, where 16 racers lined up for the Pro Enduro class and Jay Edworthy, on a Sea-Doo 325 RXPX, took the top podium step (2/2/2), Christian Daly and his Yamaha GP 1800 took second (4/3/3), and Tory Snyder and another Yamaha GP 1800 secured third (3/6/6).
In the AM300 class, the podium platforms went to Michael Northrup on a Sea-Doo 325 RXPX in 1st (1/3/3), Cooper Caldwell, also on a 325 RXPX, in second (7/1/2) and Yamaha GP 1800 rider Yaniel Fiallo in 3rd (2/5/5)
Closing out the classes, Kayden Baldwin, on a Yamaha FXHO, secured a hat-trick 1st place (1/1/1), Nuschke on another Yamaha FXHO finished 2nd (4/5/4) and Noah Dalli, also aboard an FXHO, claimed 3rd (DNR/2/3)
Round 2 hit the shores of Kissimmee on July 12-13, where those first-round grudge matches played out and shuffled up a few of the standings. When the sun set on round 2, it was Daly who secured the top podium step (3/1/1), Deven Farthing secured the second spot on his Yamaha GP 1800 (2/2/3) and Edworthy stayed in the top 3 (1/11/2)
In the Am300 class, Caldwell staked claim to 3 1sts to claim the weekend overall win, Valentina Lezcano on a Sea-Doo 300 RXPX took possession of 2nd place (3/3/4) and Michael Bouchard took third (2/5/6) on a Yamaha GP 1800.
In the AM200 Class Baldwin continued with a strong season, taking the overall top place (2/3/1) followed by Baron Mernik on a Yamaha FXHO in second and Gary Holbein Jr., also on a FXHO, in third (3/1/3)
If you wade through the math, those results ended up with season standings, heading into the Sheboygan weekend, with Pro Enduro’s Christian Daly holding a three point lead over Jay Edworthy, with Deven Farthing in 3rd with 92 points, five points above Anthony Radetic in 4th.
In the AM 300 battle, Cooper Caldwell holds a rock-solid lead with 132 points – 38 ahead of second place.
In the AM 200 class, Kayden Baldwin heads into round 3 dominating, securely 53 points ahead of second place with his season points resting at 137.
Baldwin took a minute to chat with WCJ about the mental prep for heading into round three with such a solid lead.
“I believe it’ll still be a battle for the points championship, anything can happen out on that massive race course,” he said. “I would love to say it would be easy, but I know it’s not going to be. P1 is designed to be the hardest and most competitive jetski racing in the world. I’ll just be praying that I’ll make it through the weekend on top again.”
WCJ asked Baldwin about his midseason training regimen as Round 3 draws closer.
“Usually I’ll just ride the ski that I’ll be racing as much as I can to understand the different movements the ski will make in different conditions,” he responded. “I also ride my 1500 from time to time to get my stamina back in shape right before the race weekend. I don’t normally work out, but I do carry around engines and work on skis with my dad sometimes.”
And speaking of Round 3, yesterday, July 23, AquaX announced that Mercury Racing is returning as the Title Sponsor of the 3rd Annual Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge on the shores of Lake Michigan in Sheboygan.
“This is our hometown event,” said Anna Frazier, Brand Manager of Mercury Racing. “Sheboygan
offers world-class water conditions, strong community support, and it’s less than an hour from our
headquarters. We’re proud to return as title sponsor and celebrate this sport in a place that means so
much to us.”
Billed as “A Weekend of Speed, Music, and Community,” the weekend’s events kick off Friday night, August 8, with a downtown street party featuring live music by Nashville recording artist Andy Velo, food trucks and local vendors and meet-and-greet access with powerboat and jet ski race teams. Racing will take place both Saturday and Sunday, with all the action visible from the South Pier Lawn near Blue Harbor Resort.
For more information, read the full press release from Powerboat P1 below, and stay tuned to WCJ in the coming two weeks as we touch base with more AquaX racers to chat about the season so far and their goals, challenges and advantages in the second half of the season.
Mercury Racing Returns As Title Sponsor 3rd Annual “Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge” In Sheboygan
Sheboygan, WI – Powerboat P1, the international marine motorsport promoter, is thrilled to announce that Mercury Racing is returning as Title Sponsor of the 3rd Annual Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge, taking place August 8-10, 2025, on the shores of Lake Michigan in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. This high-energy event – now a staple of Sheboygan’s summer calendar will serve as:
• Round 2 of the Monster Energy P1 Offshore Triple Crown • Round 3 of the Monster Energy P1 AquaX Championship • Round 3 of the APBA Offshore National Championship
The event is a festival-style celebration of powerboat and personal watercraft racing, expected to draw more than 50 race teams from across the U.S. and abroad. Previous years have welcomed competitors from Australia, Italy, Sweden, and Norway, highlighting the event’s global reach. Mercury Racing, based just down the road in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, has long been a pillar of the powerboat racing community. After title-sponsoring the inaugural Sheboygan race in 2023, the company returns this year to support an even larger and more immersive fan experience.
“This is our hometown event,” said Anna Frazier, Brand Manager of Mercury Racing. “Sheboygan offers world-class water conditions, strong community support, and it’s less than an hour from our headquarters. We’re proud to return as title sponsor and celebrate this sport in a place that means so much to us.”
A Weekend of Speed, Music, and Community The event kicks off Friday night, August 8, with a Downtown Street Party from 6:00–10:00 p.m. centered around City Green, featuring:
• Live music by Nashville recording artist Andy Velo • Food trucks and local vendors • Meet-and-greet access with powerboat and jet ski race teams on display
Racing takes center stage on Saturday and Sunday, with full days of P1 Offshore and AquaX competition, visible from the South Pier Lawn near Blue Harbor Resort—offering the best vantage points on the course.
The Pit Area at Deland Park will once again be open to the public, giving fans behind-the-scenes access to race teams as they prepare their high-performance machines for battle on Lake Michigan.
Mercury Racing Fan Zone and VIP Experience Mercury Racing will anchor the Fan Zone at the end of South Pier Drive with a significant display activation featuring high-performance products and official Mercury Racing merchandise for sale.
Additional vendors, food trucks, and interactive experiences will fill the Fan Zone, enhancing the event atmosphere. Fans can enjoy all activities for free, but VIP Hospitality Tickets are available for purchase, offering:
• Catered lunch and full bar • Lounge seating with shade • Private viewing area with screens and live commentary
“Mercury Racing has been a leader in powerboat racing for over 50 years,” said Azam Rangoonwala, CEO of Powerboat P1. “We’re honored to continue our partnership with them and to present Sheboygan with a truly world-class marine motorsport festival. This event brings together multiple racing disciplines in one location, and the energy it brings to the region is undeniable.”
The Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge will be televised live nationally on the RACER TV Network and the Powerboat P1 YouTube Channel. For full event details, sponsorship information, or to purchase VIP Hospitality Tickets, please visit powerboatp1.com
About Mercury Racing: Based in Fond du Lac, Wis., Mercury Racing, a division of Mercury Marine, is a global leader in high-performance marine propulsion systems. Known for pushing the limits of innovation, Mercury Racing produces outboards, sterndrives, propellers, and accessories for the world’s most demanding boaters and racers. Mercury Marine is a division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), the world’s largest manufacturer of recreational marine products.
About Powerboat P1: Founded in 2002, Powerboat P1 has staged more than 700 races across 19 countries on four continents, producing world-class offshore and AquaX racing events and expanding the reach of marine motorsport through global broadcast partnerships.
Legacies… there’s just something about powersports that attracts them. Strike that, it doesn’t attract them as much as it builds them. I’m not talking about the everyday standard definition of a legacy; I’m not talking about the noun “legacy.” I’m not talking about something you leave behind; no, this legacy is something a bit different and a bit deeper. This legacy refers to a competitor, an athlete, who follows in the footsteps of a family member who achieved success within the sport.
Powersports are riddled with legacy families… where generations share a passion and talent in the same arena. The racetrack has its names: Nascar’s Elliott and Earnhardt, IndyCar’s Unser and Andretti; Kenny Roberts Jr. and Sr. in MotoGP; Motocross’ Everts. And in PWC racing, we all know the names: Farthing, Nehme, McCluggage, Snyder.
But in PWC racing, as in other extreme powersports, what happens off the track is often as important as what happens after the flag drops, and legacies are built equally strong behind the scenes.
With the tragic passing in early June of Dean Charrier, just such a legacy is becoming apparent, as Dustin Charrier, always present as a part of Dean’s Team, is now both honoring his father’s legend, and stepping onto his own path. In a post on social media yesterday, July 22, Dustin introduced Dean Strong Watercraft Performance.
“Every day I was working side by side with Dean, and he taught me invaluable lessons and gave me priceless knowledge. He was truly a genius and I believe he was the best in the world at what he did. I’m thankful for everything that he has passed down to me,” Dustin wrote.
“With Dean gone, so is Dean’s Team Racing. The brand and team was Dean’s since the 1990’s. It was his brainchild, his passion, and his business. Now, I am on a new path of my own making. In paying homage to everything Dean has done for not only myself but for the watercraft world, I am proud to introduce Dean Strong Watercraft Performance.”
Dustin Charrier here – if we have not met, I am Dean Charrier’s son.
Dean Charrier, of Dean’s Team Racing & Watercraft Performance, spent over 30 years in the watercraft performance industry, and saw more success than anyone in the world.
Dean and I turned Dean’s passion into a family business in 2016. Since then, we have strived to bring the best of the best to the general public and have made world-class performance accessible to everyone on the water. Dean’s knowledge was instrumental in building Dean’s Team and making it the preferred provider of specialized watercraft parts & performance.
On June 12 2025, Dean Charrier passed away.
Since then, I have worked night & day to carry on my dad’s legacy and business that we built together.
Every day I was working side by side with Dean, and he taught me invaluable lessons and gave me priceless knowledge. He was truly a genius and I believe he was the best in the world at what he did. I’m thankful for everything that he has passed down to me.
With Dean gone, so is Dean’s Team Racing. The brand and team was Dean’s since the 1990s. It was his brainchild, his passion, and his business.
Now, I am on a new path of my own making. In paying homage to everything Dean has done for not only myself but for the watercraft world, I am proud to introduce Dean Strong Watercraft Performance.
With Dean Strong Watercraft Performance, my goal is to go above & beyond what Dean’s Team has accomplished. I am offering all of the same specialty packages, Dean’s famous ECU reflash service, performance parts curated from superior brands, and all of the knowledge that Dean instilled in me. I plan on spreading his legacy even further by reaching across the country & the globe with even more content, even more packages, and even more services for the personal watercraft community.
I would like to thank everyone for their support. I am very much looking forward to getting back to business as usual, and pushing the limits of exceptional service & extraordinary performance.
At the start of the month, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Coast Guard released the annual Recreational Boating Statistics report for 2024, showing that there has been a slight uptick in the total number of watercraft incidents in 2024 compared to previous years, but also showing that there has also been a dip in both deaths and injuries.
According to the report, in calendar year 2024, the Coast Guard verified 3,887 incidents that involved 556 deaths, 2,170 injuries and approximately $88 million of damage to property as a result of recreational boating incidents. The fatality rate was 4.8 deaths per 100,000 registered recreational vessels. This rate represented a 2% decrease from the 2023 fatality rate of 4.9 deaths per 100,000 registered recreational vessels. Compared to 2023, the number of incidents increased 1.1%, the number of deaths decreased 1.4%, and the number of injuries increased 2.1%. Where length was known, 4 of every 5 boaters who drowned were aboard vessels less than 21 feet in length.
Where data was known, the most common vessel types involved in incidents were open motorboats (47%), personal watercraft (19%), and cabin motorboats (14%).
Where data was known, the vessel types with the highest percentage of deaths were open motorboats (46%), paddlecraft (26%) and pontoons (8%). Paddlecraft deaths include canoes (4.5%), kayaks (16%) and standup paddleboards (5%) or SUPs.
The 11,674,073 recreational vessels registered by the states in 2024 represent a 1.1% increase from last year when 11,546,512 recreational vessels were registered.
The statistics continued to support the importance of wearing a PFD, as more than 85 percent of the fatalities were cases where lifejackets were not being worn.
While the report covers recreational boating of all sorts, it does break down the numbers by craft type, with Personal watercraft ranking as the type of watercraft with the second highest number of fatalities.
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While “inattention of operators ranked, by a significant margin, as the top contributing factor of watercraft incidents, alcohol took the top spot spot as the contributing factor in fatal incidents.
Nearly 30 percent of PWCs involved in incidents in 2024 were rental vessels, but only roughly 15 percent of deaths that occurred involving PWCs, took place aboard rented units.
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
If you’re a frequent reader of The Watercraft Journal, you’ll know that we are quite enthusiastic about following the exciting news that comes out of PWC racing around the world. From live, on-the-ground reporting at races to following up with racers in exclusive interviews, PWC racing is just about the bread and butter of the content we try to keep you in the loop with. However, just outside of the community interests, there’s one aspect of racing that particularly piques our interest: the builds.
For the more technically minded of our readers, it will be no surprise that the specific build of a PWC can be the deciding factor at a race—sometimes even more than the racers themselves. So, when we realized that last year’s IJSBA World Finals featured one specific boat style significantly more than any other, we wanted to find out more about the details of this hull.
A quick look at the World Finals shows that Fast Powersports’ GP1R hull was easily the most prominent boat in the competition, winning more championship titles than all other aftermarket hulls combined. After a little more research, we found out that it’s just one of three models on offer at Fast Powersports, each boasting its own set of top-performance attributes.
For example, the aforementioned GP1R is the group’s top-performing race ski, dominating the waters for the past seven years, and receiving its most recent upgrade this year. It’s been remodeled to meet the newest IJSBA criteria for dimensions, but in the process, they fine-tuned the hull’s nimbleness, weight bias, and even upgraded the materials to ensure that the 2025 model will continue to dominate the waters.
On the other hand, their F1 ski is a larger boat, with a big engine bay and notable front-end buoyancy, providing tons of stability and reliably high top speeds. While that lift ensures stability and speed for the craft, its showing at races has been more limited because the turn speed is reduced around tight corners. Even still, it’s highlighted as an incredibly comfortable ride for those looking to get maximum velocity.
Finally, there’s the newly released F16, which rides similarly to the GP1R but with more aggressive turning and responsiveness.
If you’re curious to find out more about the differences in these various hulls, as well as to learn a bit about the extensive research and development process behind one of PWC racing’s top manufacturers, it’s worth checking out this recent video from Dustin Motzouris on the Fast Powersports channel. In it, he goes through the three different styles of hulls they manufacture, pointing out the latest upgrades in each model and showing the pros and cons for different styles of riders. He also shows off some of their winning boats from past races, making it an interesting watch for anyone who enjoys PWC racing.
One of the things we found most interesting about the video was how Motzouris explains the R&D part of their process. Specifically, he explains how having three different models of PWC allows them to cross-reference a wide set of data to improve their products year after year.
Be sure to check out the video, and if you’re already sold on getting a Fast Powersports hull, you can email them at [email protected]!
One thing WCJ has let slip by over the years of coverage of Taiga, is their sister-endeavor, Taiga’s mobile app.
The company announced the release of the mobile app in 2023 with a release on PR Wire, stating “Taiga Motors Corporation, a leading electric off-road vehicle manufacturer is excited to announce the launch of the new Taiga Cloud Connected Mobile App, now available as a free download.
The new app brings a rich set of new features to Nomad snowmobile and Orca Personal Watercraft owners, enhancing their ownership experience whether for work or recreational usage. With the new Taiga App, industry-first real-time vehicle localization unlocks a new way for customers to interact with their vehicles, allowing them to see their global positioning and status. In addition, mode preference features, measurement system selections, and charging details make the Taiga ownership experience better than ever.”
Earlier this week, Taiga gained the attention of media outlets with the release of app updates, adding all-new drive modes and multiuser access for its electric snowmobiles and personal watercrafts.
The Taiga company, which was acquired by British electric boat entrepreneur Stewart Wilkinson last year, has continued to push forward with their focus on sustainability.
“We are excited to support the evolution of Taiga,” Wilkinson said of the deal. “Sam and his team have built great products and technology in challenging financial markets. The world urgently needs low-carbon solutions for all forms of mobility. This transaction will allow us to continue building the best technology, team, and products to propel the industry forward.”
The new additions to the mobile app supports the innovations built into the company’s PWCs, including new custom drive modes that allow riders to set and save performance profiles custom-created for specific riders or conditions.
“Whether you’re dialing back power and acceleration for a beginner, creating a fleet mode for consistent use across a rental operation, or fine-tuning acceleration and top speed for your own style, the new modes let you take control of the ride experience, directly from your phone,” states company data on the updates, adding that app admins can control which modes are available for use on the vehicle.
“These tools put safety, customization, and convenience in our owners’ hands,” says Gabriel Bernatchez, co-founder and chief technology officer at Taiga. “Our engineering teams are constantly working to enhance the ownership experience for fleet and recreational owners alike.”
The new user management system also enables secure multi-user access: vehicle owners can invite other users, allowing family, friends, or employees to use the app with their own login credentials and assigned permissions. It’s ideal for shared vehicles at the cottage, rental fleets, or families managing younger riders.
This update builds on Taiga’s existing platform, which includes:
Live encrypted GPS vehicle tracking
LTE-based remote access and control
Remote charging management
Over-the-air updates for vehicle software
Remote diagnostics and servicing
The new app features are available now on iOS and Android for all Taiga vehicle owners.
Meanwhile, Taiga, under the new ownership and partnership with several leading marine electrification companies that include Vita, Evoy, and Aqua superpower,, continues to fine-tune and update the company’s PWC offerings, which now include two models, and recently announced the beginning of customer deliveries on the 2025 Model Year Orca PWC, which features improvements in better performance and faster charging times.
According to data from Taiga, the new 2025 model Orca takes advantage of breakthrough battery cooling technology with up to 65% more power, doubles peak DC fast charging rates on Orca watercraft.
The company has also reached an increased production capacity of up to 8,000 combined units per year, “enabling delivery of cost-leading electric powertrain components to global boat manufacturers alongside Taiga’s electric vehicles.”
Taiga is now also offering sale pricing on both the Orca and the limited edition Orca Carbon, with the Orca starting at $19,499, down from $20,999, and the Orca Carbon starting at $24,499, down from $26,499.
You can find more details on both the Mobile App updates, and the 2025 Model Orca, in the full press releases below:
Taiga Launches Industry-First Features for Enhanced Controls and Safety in Mobile App Update
MONTREAL, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Taiga Motors Inc. (Taiga), the pioneer in electric powersports, today announced a major update to its mobile app, introducing custom drive modes and multi-user access for its electric snowmobiles and personal watercraft—an industry first.
The new custom drive modes feature allows owners to set and save performance profiles tailored to different riders or conditions. Whether you’re dialing back power and acceleration for a beginner, creating a fleet mode for consistent use across a rental operation, or fine-tuning acceleration and top speed for your own style, the new modes let you take control of the ride experience—directly from your phone. Admins can control which modes are available for use on the vehicle.
The new user management system enables secure multi-user access: vehicle owners can invite other users, allowing family, friends, or employees to use the app with their own login credentials and assigned permissions. It’s ideal for shared vehicles at the cottage, rental fleets, or families managing younger riders.
“These tools put safety, customization, and convenience in our owners’ hands,” said Gabriel Bernatchez, Co-Founder & CTO at Taiga. “Our engineering teams are constantly working to enhance the ownership experience for fleet and recreational owners alike.”
This update builds on Taiga’s already robust connected platform, which includes:
Live encrypted GPS vehicle tracking
LTE-based remote access and control
Remote charging management
Over-the-air updates for vehicle software
Remote diagnostics and servicing
Taiga vehicles are built on a fully native software and hardware stack, following Taiga’s clean sheet design approach used across all vehicle systems. This unmatched level of digital integration in powersports allows Taiga vehicles to constantly upgrade with new features and performance updates.
The new app features are available now on iOS and Android for all Taiga vehicle owners.
Taiga Launches Production of 2025 Orca watercraft
MONTREAL, May 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Taiga Motors Inc. (Taiga) has reached an important milestone restarting its manufacturing operations and beginning customer deliveries of the new MY25 Orca watercraft that features new innovations, including significant advancements in battery performance and faster charging times.
Important operational milestone launching production of 2025 watercraft Breakthrough battery cooling technology with up to 65% more power
Update enables double peak DC fast charging rates on Orca watercraft
Delivering on Production Milestone
The launch of vehicle assembly and automated battery production lines on the planned timeline marks an important milestone for Taiga, enabling customer deliveries of new MY25 Orca watercraft. This demonstrates Taiga’s strengthened operations as part of a new global alliance of leading marine electrification companies that include Vita, Evoy, and Aqua superpower.
Taiga will continue to strategically ramp up production at its advanced manufacturing facility in Montreal, Quebec with an installed capacity of up to 8,000 combined units per year, enabling delivery of cost-leading electric powertrain components to global boat manufacturers alongside Taiga’s electric vehicles. Taiga plans to begin producing new electric snowmobiles in the fall of 2025 to satisfy growing international demand for its products. This will continue to grow jobs and technological leadership within the Canadian EV industry.
“Restarting production in such a short time is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team and the support of great partners,” said Matthew Taylor, Vice President, Operations. “We’ve leveraged years of operational lessons to build a robust, vertically integrated advanced manufacturing system right here in Canada. Everyone at Taiga is proud to persevere in leading production of the only personal watercraft still made in Canada.”
Breakthrough Battery Cooling – More power & faster charging
Taiga has continued to push boundaries on the foundational technology required for high-performance electric products at compelling prices to enable an accelerated transition to electric marine and powersport vehicles. The new battery cooling technology is a product of Taiga’s advanced engineering efforts and rigorous iterations over the past years.
A novel approach to optimize fluid flow across lithium-ion cell hotspots has increased thermal transfer rates and temperature uniformity in the battery pack, enabling up to a 65% increase in continuous battery power in warm weather marine environments. Alongside recent software updates, the increased cooling enables extended peak charging rates and reduces DC Fast charging times to under 30 minutes.
“The rapid introduction of new battery technologies is possible thanks to Taiga’s vertical integration bringing advanced engineering and automated production together all under one roof,” said Paul Achard, Chief of Engineering. “We are excited to implement this breakthrough battery technology in our upcoming snowmobile production and future powertrain products.”
There’s nothing like a good clearance sale to get us excited about bringing some new PWC gear home, and RIVA Racing is proving once again that high quality at a great price is just too good to pass up. They’ve currently got some strong discounts available on their Clearance Sale page, with top-tier accessories and apparel noticeably marked down.
In particular, RIVA’s clearance sale features several Jetpilot jackets and wetsuits, making it easier than ever to gear up with premium riding equipment. We love their vintage-style jackets, which not only show off a cool retro look, but also keep you performing at your best—even when the weather turns cold. The F-86 Sabre water jacket is made from ultra-soft, lightweight neoprene and features an engineered fit with minimal seams for maximum flexibility and comfort during any water sport adventure.
Then there are the wetsuits, which come in a variety of colors and styles in both youth and adult sizes. For example, the Vintage Class John blends throwback style with modern functionality, offering a streamlined, rider-focused fit. Built with 2mm Flex-lite neoprene, it delivers lightweight comfort and flexibility, perfect for warm-weather rides. Flatlock stitching helps prevent irritation, while Jet-lite knee and shin pads add extra durability where it matters most. A zip-free, hook-and-loop entry system keeps things simple and secure—ideal for riders who want that vintage look without compromising performance.
While both of these options are great deals, it’s worth browsing the RIVA Racing website to check out the full range of gloves, graphics kits, and apparel currently on clearance. Inventory moves fast, so now’s the time to stock up and save!
Putting six young guys and a vintage piece of watercraft history out in the middle of some big waves with nothing but a camera may not sound like the best idea… and, well, to be fair, we’re not sure it is—but it’s certainly interesting to watch! It’s especially intriguing because they’re trying their hand at one of the jet ski’s earliest predecessors: a 1980s vintage watercraft called the Wet Bike.
While such an old PWC—especially a model that quickly went out of fashion due to design flaws—may seem impossible to get working, the guys at the “Sickos” YouTube channel managed to get their hands on a nearly mint condition Wet Bike from Facebook Marketplace, and their video, while chaotic, is a cool way to see one in action.
Among the interesting design features is the impeller, which sticks way out of the back of the seat, while the nose of the Wet Bike lifts high out of the water. Seeing it cut through the waves is almost reminiscent of a clunkier hydrofoil. However compelling the design and function may be, the video’s title—“We Tried A JET POWERED Bike In BIG Waves”—shows the creators were aiming for something even more dramatic.
We can’t condone the safety precautions taken in the video—with maneuvers like tossing the PWC from the dock into the water, or riding dangerously close to the rock jetty in eight-foot waves certainly posing a significant risk of injury—and there are some questionable wrecks and nose-dives throughout. Still, getting the opportunity to see the Wet Bike’s riding style, propulsion, and maneuverability makes this video an interesting watch for sure.
There has been a definite trend over the last dozen or so years in the PWC industry to “go big or go home” – literally.
Right smack dab in the middle of that “growing” trend Sea-Doo, without slowing down their push toward “bigger”, released the Sea-Doo Spark. As stated by WCJ head honcho Kevin Shaw in the Spark introductory article in November of 2013, “Sea-Doo’s introduction of the Spark is not a marketing gimmick or short-term ploy. It’s a tectonic shift in how the personal watercraft industry should operate.” 
And, now, thanks to GreenHulk – there’s a way to have your cake and eat it, too.
