As technology continues to revolutionize nearly every market in the world, the boating industry is no different. Not unlike other industries, boats are now capable of incorporating flashy, high-tech accessories. These new tech gadgets are displayed at boat shows and in industry magazines, capturing the attention of and creating demand among boaters to have the next big thing in boating.
Economic conditions have continued to improve over the last few years and the market for a leisure industry like recreational boats has grown more favorable. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the improved housing market, higher employment rates, strong consumer confidence, and increased disposable income have contributed to not only more unit sales: dollar sales are on the rise as well.
Millennials are playing a big role in the growing boat industry and influencing the types of watercraft that are selling. Smaller, more versatile boats are what the next generation of boaters are looking for. These “crossover” boats are more affordable and can be used for just about any water activity or sport. It’s millennials too, that want to trick out their boats with the latest tech products. Here’s a look at some of the new techie accessories and other trends in recreational boating.
Intuitive Marine Technology
Boat accessory manufacturers are upping the ante when it comes to technology. One example the direction high-tech is going in the boating world is with intuitive technology. Joystick control is the next big thing in intuitive marine technology. It can be either an upgrade to a new outboard motor, such as the iDock system available for the Evinrude E-TEC G2 150 to 300 HP outboard motors, or retrofitted to older model outboard and inboard engines.
Crossover Boats
Another direction boating technology is seemingly headed is toward the crossover boat industry. With more and more millennials earning degrees and moving into professional careers with some disposable income, this group wants a boat that is best for ALL the activities they want to use if for. From wakeboarding and water skiing to fishing and just all around pleasure-cruising, crossover boats are designed to be more affordable and versatile for the next generation of boaters.
Power Boat Covers
New technology has proven to be instrumental in taking traditional products and services and making them faster and more efficient. This is the case with the wireless, automatic power boat covers which have grown in popularity over the last several years. The Easy Cover™ is the premier power pontoon boat cover available. The Easy Cover™ uses a wireless key fob to move to and from each of its four positions in just 45 seconds. The ease of the Easy Cover™ enables its users to spend more time on the water while still protecting their investment.
Wake Control Ballast System
Wakeboarders have been using ballast systems for years. Today’s technology gives wakeboarders and skiers the ability to control the ballast weight to get just the wave shape they’re looking for. Ballast weight and wave shape can be controlled from the digital dash display or from a wrist band worn by the rider.
Smart Boat Technology
Many new boats being sold today are fitted with integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies. If you’re looking for high-tech marine audio sound for your existing boat, these features are also available from aftermarket manufacturers.
As technology continues to get bigger and better the boating industry will keep coming up with new products that are in line with the rest of the tech world. Which new accessory does your boat need?