Why Have Boating And Yachting Become So Popular During The COVID-19 Pandemic?

Sales of personal watercraft, boats, and yachts are all on the rise, and reached record levels in August 2020. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, more than 70% of yachting brokers and boat dealers nationwide reported an increase of sales in spring of 2020 – and this trend continued throughout the summer.

At Cross Chartering Yacht Transport, this demand has definitely affected our yacht transport service – and it’s left us wondering. Why are boating and yachting becoming so popular during the COVID-19 pandemic? We’ve put together a few leading theories below – read on for more information.

Boats Are A Great Way To Spend Time With Family And Loved Ones 

COVID-19 has made a lot of people realize what’s important – spending time with those who are close to you. Boating and yachting are great ways to spend time with children, spouses, and other loved ones and have a fun, relaxing experience on the water.

People Have Fewer Overall Options For Recreation 

This was particularly true during the initial wave of COVID-19 lockdowns, which resulted in the closure of bars, restaurants, sporting and music venues, and even public parks, in some areas of the country.

With fewer overall options for recreation, people who were interested in boat or yacht ownership may have found the idea even more appealing.

It’s Easy To Maintain Social Distancing On The Water

Due to the closure of many indoor event venues, social distancing is becoming more difficult in areas like public parks, shopping areas, and other such places where large crowds tend to gather.

However, boating and yachting allows boat owners to enjoy the weather and have fun on the water without worrying about exposing themselves or others to people who may have COVID-19.

Economic Impacts From COVID-19 Have Been Lower Than Expected

This is a particularly noteworthy factor for yacht brokers who sell expensive “superyachts,” or offer yacht chartering services –

After the first wave of COVID-19 in February a recession was declared – but since then, the pandemic has not affected high net worth individuals very heavily. Despite some fluctuations in the economy, rich individuals have recovered most of their wealth since the pandemic began.

It’s likely that some of these people were interested in buying a yacht or superyacht before the COVID-19 pandemic began, but then held off after the economic turmoil brought by the virus.

But by the spring and summer, as the economy stabilized, yacht brokers began to see increased demand, and the lower-than-expect impact of COVID-19 on the economy may have been a factor in this boost in demand.

High Demand For Boating And Yachting Will Continue To Be Great For The Industry

Despite the terrible impacts of COVID-19, an increased demand for boating and yachting is a great thing, and while peak season for boat and yacht sales may be nearly over in North America, we’re looking forward to what 2021 has to hold.

At Cross Chartering Yacht Transport, we can assist customers of all types of yacht transport service in Florida, including boat owners, brokers, and more. If you need help transporting a yacht of any size, we’re here to help. Contact us online or call at +1 (954) 686-6902.