A new report into the UK leisure boat industry has revealed the extent of the post-Covid bounce back…
boating industry is
prospering in both
domestic and
international markets
British Marine’s Key Performance Indicators Report for 2021/2022 show that total industry revenue grew by 25% during the year to £4.23 billion, 6.5% above its pre-pandemic level.
Factoring in indirect economic contributions, such as tourism and hospitality, the marine industry is estimated to be worth around £6.8 billion to the UK economy.
UK marine exports also grew rapidly, showing a 13% year-on-year increase to £1.22 billion, thanks largely to soaring sales of British-built boats.
Motorboat sales alone accounted for £574 million of that thanks to the likes of Princess, Sunseeker and Fairline selling more boats overseas, while sailboats and yachts contributed a further £116 million. Domestic demand also helped power growth, with imports of foreign-built craft increasing by 8% in 2021/22.
Once again, sales were largely driven by demand for motorboats, with inboard- and outboard-powered imports up 32% to £109 million, RIBs up 66% to £39 million and outboard engines up 40% to £22…
