Overview

The 800 boat builders in the US design, manufacture, and market boats used primarily for personal and recreational purposes. Major product categories include power boats, sailboats, kayaks, canoes, and rowboats. Power boats include boats with inboard, outboard, stern drive, and jet powered engines. The power boat category includes Personal Water Craft (PWC), such as a jet ski. The average retail price for a new boat is about $137,000, but luxury yachts can retail for millions of dollars.

Variability in Costs

Variability in the cost of materials and components affect margins and profitability for boat builders.

Competition from Used Boats

Boat builders compete with the used boat market, which appeals to deal-seeking buyers and new boaters looking to minimize their investment.