A January 2024 article in the online publication QuickNav reported that 31 percent of Millennials, 37 percent of Gen X, and only 28 percent of Baby Boomers consider themselves boaters or own a boat. The average age for boaters has decreased from 58 to 46. Regardless of their age, boaters have driven other trends in 2024.
Technology has impacted boating trends, such as autonomous docking. Outfits in the boating industry have made docking easier with features that help the boater steer their boats into the dock. Products such as Volvo Penta's Assisted Docking have become popular. This Assisted Docking system uses sensors, GPS-based positioning, advanced algorithms, and joysticks to dock the boat easily. Additionally, Neuboat Dock incorporates features such as cameras, GPS, and lidar (targets object or surface to set ranges) to dock the vessel automatically. While not necessarily used for docking, Seakeeper Ride is another boating navigation technology that gauges the boat's moves to adjust rotary blades for a less bumpy ride.
Other boating trends related to technology include the demand for smaller boats with high-tech gadgets. Boaters are choosing smaller boats with high-tech features over larger yachts. For instance, popular boats include the 28-foot 22024 Aquila 28 Molokai, outfitted with state-of-the-art technology, among other luxury features.
Additionally, high-speed internet has replaced spotty internet conne
ction experiences that usually happen when traveling over water. For instance, yacht owners can access high-speed internet through companies such as Starlink, which offers services that allow them to stream films and television shows, play video games, and make video calls. Outside Starlink, boaters can use WiFi or cellular data through Marine WiFi, which offers plug-and-play or Broadband Global Area Network, which works similarly to mobile hotspots.
Outside of technology, m
any boaters are also opting to customize the features on their boats, such as cleats (used to tie ropes) and speaker grills (which protect speakers from elements). Customization also includes fitting out the vessel with premium finishes.
One boat feature that is also trending is for large center consoles. Even with the demand for smaller boats, boaters still prefer large center consoles when out on the water because more room allows for seating and enjoyment. Boats such as the 42.5-foot Boston Whaler 42 Outrage are large enough to comfortably accommodate a group of anglers or a small party looking to enjoy their time on the water. Alternatively, a person can outfit the space with a spacious cockpit, helm station (steering control area), double berth (sleeping area), and galley (food preparation space), which makes overnight stays over the water more comfortable.
Boat manufacturers are also providing boaters with more options in vessel power. The manufacturing landscape allows boaters to purchase eco-friendly, electric-powered boats, high-performance vessels, and hybrids. Nautique Super Air GS22E is an example of one in various electric-powered vessels. Alternatively, the high-performance Mercury Verado 600 (V12 and V10) gives boaters power while riding smoothly. Boaters can also opt for hybrid boats, which offer a little bit of power and eco-friendliness.
Other trends in boating include boater behavior, with many using their boat to work remotely. Again, Starlink and other services have made remote work possible for many. Those in the market for a yacht will have their yachts "Starlink Equipped" just in case they decide to make their yacht also their office.
