There are several factors that have been weighing on water sports in large parts of the world for the past year and a half: political uncertainty, a slowing economy, fear of job losses and demographic change. In addition, prices for boats, equipment and moorings have risen painfully in some cases during the Covid boom. No wonder that the buying mood is suffering as a result.
Break-in clearly visible
The slump can also be seen in the number of new water sports licences issued. As Karsten Stahlhut, Managing Director of the German Maritime Industry Association (VMWD), announced at a press conference at boot Düsseldorf at the beginning of October, the number of licences issued fell from 100,000 in 2021 to just 78,000 in 2024, the lowest level in ten years.
At the same time, as more and more people are giving up their hobby due to age, the number of active water sports enthusiasts is continuously decreasing. Between 2015 and 2023, it fell by a net 34,000 sailors and motor boaters.
The decline is having an effect. Demand for smaller entry-level boats has suffered "in particular", as the VMWD boss observes. In contrast, the high-end segment is doing even better.
Recovery expected
In general, the industry expects a hesitant but steady recovery in the coming year. This is the result of the latest YACHT surveys after the autumn trade fairs. boot Düsseldorf could also benefit from this.
Its director, Petros Michelidakis, sees the world's largest water sports exhibition, which starts on 17 January, on a good course. "Of course, we are a long way from the market returning to pre-Covid levels, but we see clear signs that we are heading for better times."
Exhibitors return
While motorboats and superyachts alone will fill seven halls, the sailing area will also be more attractive than this year. Three catamaran manufacturers are coming to the Rhine again: Bali, Excess and Lagoon. New dinghies and yachts will also be well represented. While Hanse Yachts has already announced its intention to return after boot 2025 has been cancelled, it is still unclear whether Bavaria will be back.
With a total of 1,500 exhibitors, boot will in any case maintain its unrivalled position as the world's largest water sports trade fair. Petros Michelidakis calls it a "beacon" for the industry and expects more than 200,000 visitors. Admission prices remain unchanged: the two-day ticket is available from 19 euros, young people pay 14 euros and children under 13 are admitted free of charge.
