The Rise of Recreational Boating
Over the past decade, recreational boating has seen significant growth in popularity. More Americans are choosing to spend leisure time out on the water whether it be relaxing on a boat, fishing, wakeboarding or using a personal watercraft. One segment of the boating that has seen especially strong gains is personal watercraft. Personal watercraft, also known as PWCs or jet skis, allow users to explore bodies of water in a fun and exciting way. Their mobility and versatility have made them appealing to both casual recreational users and more serious riders.
Types of Personal Watercraft
There are generally three main types of Personal Watercraft available. Sit-down personal watercraft resemble motorcycles of the sea with handlebars for steering and a small seated area behind. Sit-down models tend to be more affordable and suitable for smaller riders or those new to using PWCs. Stand-up personal watercraft are larger and allow the rider to stand while riding. They provide a more thrilling experience but require more skill to operate. Lastly, there are towboat personal watercraft designed to pull tubes, skis or wakeboards. Towboats extend the fun and versatility of PWCs to groups.
Increasing Sales and Usage
Sales data reveals strong and increasing demand for personal watercraft in recent times. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, total PWC unit sales grew from around 130,000 units in 2015 to over 160,000 units in 2019, representing an over 20% rise. This was part of an overall 8% increase in total recreational boat sales. PWCs now account for approximately 15% of all powersport vehicle sales in the United States. Usage has also risen substantially. A survey conducted by the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation found that 17.4 million Americans operated a personal watercraft in 2018 compared to only 13.8 million in 2011.
Boost from Younger Demographics
One key driver of PWC sales growth has been expanded interest from younger demographics. While boating was once considered an older person's activity, millions of millennials and Generation Z consumers are now eagerly taking up watersports. Their active lifestyles and adventurous spirits have made PWCs and other powersports very appealing. Manufacturers have worked to make personal watercraft even more youth-oriented with bold colors, modern designs and enhanced technology. Affordability has improved as well, opening the to younger buyers. To attract new riders, companies also organize promotional events and introduce rental and instruction programs.
Regional and Lifestyle Variations
Usage of personal watercraft naturally varies some based on geography and lifestyle. Coastal regions tend to see the most activity given easier access to the ocean. Florida, California and Texas unsurprisingly have some of the largest PWC rider populations. Lakes and rivers in the Midwest and interior West are also common riding spots. Enthusiasts who enjoy thrills and thrill seeking tend favor stand-up models while those who pull wake boarders or tubers lean towards towboats. Personal watercraft have likewise gained devotees among both urban millennials drawn to active lifestyles as well as suburban families desiring fun outdoor recreation.
Sustained Growth Potential
Looking ahead, analysts project continued growth potential for personal watercraft sales and participation. Few other activities provide the versatility, value and excitement that PWCs deliver. As younger generations drive activities like jet skiing become more mainstream, manufacturers are innovating new riding technologies and accessories. Initiatives to expand boating infrastructure could further open water access points. Economic conditions would need to significantly deteriorate to meaningfully impact the PWC. With a new generation rapidly entering prime consumer ages and a lifestyle oriented toward active play, personal watercraft appear well positioned for ongoing sales prosperity in the decade to come and beyond.
The popularity of personal watercraft shows no signs of slowing down as the motosports vehicle of choice continues capturing new fans. Their affordability, versatility and thrill factor have widened their appeal across demographics. Strategic efforts by manufacturers to attract younger audiences combined with regional variations in usage will ensure ongoing vibrancy of the PWC sector. Overall indicators point to further increasing sales and participation rates sustaining the segment's healthy long-term growth outlook. As watersports gain in popularity, personal watercraft will remain a driving engine of recreational boating expansion.
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About Author:
Alice Mutum is a seasoned senior content editor at Coherent Market Insights, leveraging extensive expertise gained from her previous role as a content writer. With seven years in content development, Alice masterfully employs SEO best practices and cutting-edge digital marketing strategies to craft high-ranking, impactful content. As an editor, she meticulously ensures flawless grammar and punctuation, precise data accuracy, and perfect alignment with audience needs in every research report. Alice's dedication to excellence and her strategic approach to content make her an invaluable asset in the world of market insights.
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