The market for pleasure boats - Germany

1.1 Introduction

The recreational boat market includes various types of boats for leisure activities, such as yachts, sailboats, motorboats, catamarans, and inflatables. They are used for different activities, such as recreational sailing, fishing, and various water sports. Germany has a long tradition of shipbuilding, dating back to the 19th century, with renowned shipyards.

Globally, the recreational boating market has been estimated at about $30 billion annually. It is difficult to make an accurate assessment of the annual growth rate of this market due to its division into many different types of boats. However, the growth rate of the market is strongly correlated with the practice of water sports, for which we have precise data (CAGR of more than 5%). The United States, Europe and Asia-Pacific are the main markets for recreational boats, with an increasing demand for luxury yachts and powerboats. These models are popular for their ease of use, but are also regularly the focus of debate due to the pollution they cause.

In Germany, the sector is experiencing steady annual growth, with more than 2000 new recreational boats registered in the country in 2022. A distinctive feature of the German market is the importance attached to environmental awareness. In fact, local manufacturers are designing more environmentally friendly boats with sustainable materials and hybrid propulsion systems. Germany also has an extensive network of canals and rivers, allowing boaters to enjoy numerous water sports despite limited access to the sea. The German market is supported by a strong network of boat shows, such as the famous "Boot Düsseldorf", which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world every year to discover the latest innovations in the industry.

Among the most important boat manufacturers on the German market are in particularBavaria Yachtbau, HanseYachts AGandDehler Yachts.

In addition to innovations in propulsion technology (hybrid and electric motors) that help reduce the environmental impact of recreational boating, there are other notable developments in the German market, such as the growth of lighter boat rentals, which allow the various players in the industry to continue to attract new customers.