New, traditional powerboat sales declined about 9% in the first half of 2025 compared with the same period in 2024, according to data released by the research firm Info-Link. An unusually high number of these boats were built more than a year ago, according to Info-Link, indicative of the high inventory levels many dealers are still holding.
“Following a few years of not being able to produce enough product to meet demand, we’ve now gotten out in front of our skis a bit,” Info-Link managing director Jack Ellis told Trade Only Today. “However, unlike in years past, manufacturers and dealers are working together to address this imbalance, and we’re already seeing improvement.”
Traditionally, about 75% of all powerboats purchased during the first half of the year are current-model-year boats. During the first half of 2025, only 61% were from the current model year — the lowest level in 15 years.
Fishing boats have been turning more quickly, while runabouts, towboats, pontoons and other general-recreation boats have seen slower movement. Regionally, dealers along the East Coast are selling more current-year inventory than those in the West, which are still working through older stock.
