The National Marine Manufacturer’s Association today announced new survey findings from 2,000 active boaters about America’s waterfront infrastructure. The study shows that congestion at ramps and marinas, limited storage availability, and waterway maintenance issues impact how often Americans go boating.
NMMA said in a press release that the survey shows 80% of boat owners experience congestion at their primary access point, and 83% say that congestion limits their ability to go boating at least sometimes. Additionally, the survey illustrates that 71% of owners have changed their behavior because of access challenges, reporting that they boat less often, travel farther to launch, or spend less on boating overall.
According to NMMA, the survey also highlights how access influences future participation. Nearly half of non-owners surveyed are planning to move forward with a boat purchase, and many say improved access would support that decision. More storage availability, closer ramps and beginner programs were all cited as factors that could convert interest into ownership.
Additionally, the survey revealed that regional differences offer important nuance. Boaters in the Pacific/Southwest and Great Lakes report the highest levels of congestion, while those in the Rocky Mountains/Plains and South Atlantic express the strongest concern about waterway maintenance. Atlantic boaters report the highest satisfaction and shortest travel times to water.
NMMA said the results support its Waterways Access Initiative, announced in July, which focuses on protecting and expanding access to public waters, modernizing recreation infrastructure, and sustaining the $230 billion boating and fishing economy.
