The global leisure boat market size is expected to reach USD 81.04 billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 6.0% from 2026 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The growth is driven by the increasing popularity of marine and coastal tourism, as well as the growing inclination toward yachting as a recreational activity. As more and more people seek unforgettable experiences on the water, manufacturers are investing in research and development to provide boats that offer unmatched performance, safety, and luxury.
Further, the rising popularity of leisure trips and visiting unexplored destinations by millennials and younger generations are propelling the market growth. Although the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has been a major hindrance to the industry’s growth, the gradual re-opening of economies and the upliftment of restrictions are paving the way to bring the market back on track. Additionally, the growing urge among people to involve themselves in leisure activities in the post-lockdown period presents bright opportunities for the market over the forecast period.
The tourism industry has undergone significant changes in recent years due to the increasing popularity of marine and coastal tourism activities. As per the research conducted by GVR, coastal and marine tourism represents at least 50% of total global tourism and constitutes the largest economic sector for most small island nations and coastal economies. The world economy is witnessing healthy growth, and markets such as the U.S. are witnessing growth in the per-capita income of individuals, which has resulted in a rise in the disposable income of consumers. Moreover, there has been a rise in the number of High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs), which is expected to drive consumers to spend more on leisure activities, thus boosting demand for recreational boats.
The increasing number of boat shows and water sporting events are attracting a large number of boaters worldwide. The leading manufacturers are sponsoring boat shows and events, which is enhancing the popularity of leisure boats. North America is poised to remain the most prominent region in terms of revenue generation during the forecast period. The rising demand for recreational watercraft is driven by factors such as improving economic conditions and the rising disposable income of consumers in the region. The U.S. is anticipated to witness significant growth over the forecast period. Demand in the country is majorly driven by factors such as the increasing number of high-net-worth individuals and the growing popularity of water sports and fishing activities.
Furthermore, there are changes taking place in boat building, such as the adoption of IoT technology that enables appliances, physical structures, vehicles, smartphones, wearable devices, and heavy equipment to be connected to each other, while facilitating an exchange of information through a single network. The connected boat provides enhanced safety, security, and accuracy, while also improving the efficiency of the boat by digitalizing and optimizing various functions.
Measures taken by various governments to promote tourism activities in their countries are also boosting market growth. Countries with rich natural resources, such as vast coastlines and large inland water bodies, are undertaking initiatives to promote recreational boating activities to increase their tourism business. Countries such as the U.S. have a vast coastline, a highly developed infrastructure, and a large population that participates in leisure boating activities, thus opening new growth opportunities for the market. Additionally, the French government is encouraging yacht manufacturers by providing them support in various forms, thus enabling them to invest in expanding their yacht maintenance and construction capacities.
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The growing participation of people in recreational and competitive boating activities worldwide is estimated to provide an upthrust to the growth. Besides, advancements in technologies leading to the introduction and adoption of connected boats are projected to fuel growth over the forecast period.
The growing awareness among customers regarding the benefits offered by integrating technologies in conventional boats is expected to fuel market growth over the forecast period.
Recreational boating activities are gaining popularity among tourists owing to the increasing number of boating events and trade shows hosted in different parts of the world
The used leisure boat segment held the largest share of 75.88% in 2025. This trend is attributed to the fact that used boats can be acquired relatively quickly, thereby reducing delivery times.
The new leisure boat segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. The new leisure boat segment is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period.
The motorized segment held the largest market share in 2025. Boating is one of many outdoor recreational pursuits that are popular worldwide. The demand for motorized leisure vessels is rising as more people look for ways to interact with nature and spend their free time in an active and adventurous way
North America leisure boat market accounted for a 43.56% share of the overall market in 2025. The North America leisure boat market held a dominant position in 2025.
Grand View Research has segmented the global leisure boat market report based on type, product, and region:
Leisure Boat Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; Volume, Thousand Units, 2021 - 2033)
New Leisure Boat
Used Leisure Boat
Monitoring Equipment
Leisure Boat Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; Volume, Thousand Units, 2021 - 2033)
Motorized
Personal Watercraft
Outboard Boats
Yacht
Others
Non-motorized
Kayaks
Canoes
Others
Leisure Boat Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; Volume, Thousand Units, 2021 - 2033)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
Germany
UK
France
Italy
Spain
Asia Pacific
China
Japan
India
South Korea
Australia
Singapore
Latin America
Brazil
Middle East and Africa (MEA)
KSA
UAE
South Africa
List of Key Players in Leisure Boat Market
Avon Marine
Azimut Benetti Group
Daimler
Baja Marine
Bavaria Yachtbau GmbH
Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) Inc.
Brunswick Corporation
Chaparral Boats, Inc.
Farr Yacht Design, Ltd.
Ferretti S.P.A.
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