Family Fun: Facts and Figures

Recreational boating is one of the most popular forms of family recreation:

• More than 72 million Americans participated in recreational boating in 2000.


• Nearly 17 million boats were owned across the U.S. in 2000.


• It is estimated that more than half a million boats were sold in 2000.


• Over $25 billion was spent at retail outlets during 2000 for new and used boats, motors and engines, trailers, accessories and other associated costs.


• Forty one percent of fiberglass and aluminum fishing boat owners are adults with children 18 years old and younger.


• Most boat owners started boating at 12-14 years of age.


• About one-half of boat owners were introduced to boating by their parents.


• Another one-third of boat owners began boating with friends or a friend's family.

Source: National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA)