 Summer 2008 is now in full swing! That means the marinas, water ways and boat launches are a buzz with Canadian families who choose to spend their leisure time out on the water in their boats. Those boats may range from a small canoe or aluminum car-topper to large 100-plus foot yachts - and everything in between.
According to new research announced in May 2008 by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), boating participation increased in 2007 by 10 percent to 59.1 million, which the industry believes will help make the summer of 2008 another busy season on the water in spite of rising fuel prices.
A portion of the research, conducted by Michigan State University’s Recreational Marine Research Center on behalf of the NMMA, also found that ninety-nine percent of boat owners did plan on using their boat in 2008 despite to the higher cost of fuel. In addition, the study shows boaters used their boats as often as ever with the average usage in 2007, remaining steady with the past three years at 32-33 days, or 16 weekends.
“Many people don’t realize boating isn’t like driving a car, where you have to run your engine the entire time, but instead turn off your engine to anchor for swimming and fishing or socializing with friends and fellow boaters – boating without using fuel,” said Thom Dammrich, president of the NMMA. “Rising fuel costs have certainly shifted boater habits, causing them to take shorter trips or reduce their cruising speeds but we expect boaters’ passion for the lifestyle to continue to lead them to the water this summer.”
I was surprised to learn that one category of boat that has quietly been increasing over the past few years is the pontoon boat market. In their latest statistics, the National Marine Manufacturers Association note that there are over 117 manufacturers of pontoon boats producing over 84,000 new boats annually. Wow!
In this issue, along with all our usual columns, we review 12 head turning Pontoon Boats; we get some much needed Stress Relief with Mercury’s new Axius and joystick control docking system; we ask a team of experts to field-test the latest and greatest Water Toys, we continue our look at the pre-owned market with the new Owners’ Opinion column, and we close out the book asking you ‘what will your summer memories be about?’
So with the warm weather finally here, the kids out of school, and summer vacations upon us, I can’t encourage you and your family strongly enough to get out on the water and enjoy your boating passion. The memories you’ll create with your friends and family will be far more treasured than a few gas dollars saved in your wallet. See you on the water! |
