The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) said advanced data from its control group of manufacturers indicates that year-to-date wholesale shipments of “traditional” powerboats rose 8 per cent through July compared to a year ago. It also said retail sales of new powerboats were up seven per cent on a rolling 12-month basis through June.

The Great Lakes region reported the largest gains in new-boat registrations, up 12 per cent compared to a year ago. That region accounted for nearly one of five new powerboats sold. The trade association estimates that sales will be up 10.2 per cent through September compared to a year ago.

Export dollars for recreational boats and marine engines declined by 11 per cent in the third quarter, while volumes were down 1 per cent. Year-to-date, according to US Department of Commerce figures, dollars were down three per cent while units rose seven per cent.

Boat import volumes into the US rose three per cent for the third quarter, while their dollar values fell five per cent. Year-to-date, import dollars were up 10 per cent while units were down by six per cent.