Renting or chartering a yacht, sailboat, catamaran, motorboat, etc. for travel to different coastal or island areas is known as boat rental.
Global Boat Rental Market Overview (2025–2032)
The Boat Rental Market, valued at USD 20.76 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 33.40 billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 6.12% during the forecast period. The market’s growth is primarily driven by the rising popularity of marine tourism, increasing disposable income, and the growing preference for recreational and adventure-based water activities among millennials and high-net-worth individuals.
What is Boat Rental?
Boat rental refers to the practice of leasing various types of boats—such as yachts, motorboats, catamarans, or sailboats—for personal leisure, travel, or recreational purposes. These services enable travelers to explore coastal areas, islands, and lakes without the costs and responsibilities of owning a boat. Enhanced connectivity between boat owners and renters through digital platforms has further simplified the booking process, fueling global demand.
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Market Dynamics
Key Drivers
Ease of Booking and Digital Integration
The surge in digital platforms such as GetMyBoat, Click&Boat, and Boatsetter has transformed how people access boat rental services. Online apps now allow customers to browse, compare, and book boats in minutes. These platforms also integrate value-added services such as insurance, payment security, and trip customization.
Boom in Marine and Coastal Tourism
With nearly 80% of global tourism concentrated in coastal areas, marine tourism has become a cornerstone of economic growth. Activities like yachting, scuba diving, and sport fishing are attracting international travelers seeking unique, luxurious experiences. The growing middle class and improved travel infrastructure in developing countries are expanding this market further.
Rising Participation in Water Sports
Activities like kayaking, jet skiing, power boating, and yachting are witnessing rapid growth. Governments worldwide are investing in marine infrastructure and promoting recreational boating to attract tourists. The rising trend of combining fitness and adventure through water-based activities is also enhancing market adoption.
Growth in Electric Boat Adoption
Environmental concerns and emission regulations are driving the adoption of electric-powered boats. These boats are quieter, cleaner, and more cost-efficient in the long run. Many governments are investing in charging infrastructure, further propelling this segment’s growth.
Market Trends
1. Shift Toward Green Boating Solutions
The transition to electric and hybrid propulsion systems is accelerating. Companies are integrating lithium-ion battery technology to achieve better range and performance. Electric boats eliminate noise, odor, and emissions—making them ideal for environmentally protected tourist destinations.
2. Luxury and Experiential Travel on the Rise
The luxury segment is witnessing substantial growth as travelers seek unique, high-end experiences. Yacht charters with amenities like Wi-Fi, fine dining, private chefs, and entertainment facilities are increasingly popular among affluent tourists.
3. Growing Popularity of App-Based Rentals
The convenience of mobile-based rental apps and integrated services has significantly reduced entry barriers for customers. Partnerships between travel companies and boat rental providers are enabling bundled vacation packages that combine air travel, accommodation, and marine activities.
Segment Analysis
By Boat Class:
Luxury Boats (38.12% share, 2024): Dominant segment driven by demand for comfort, exclusivity, and leisure cruising. Expected to grow steadily due to high interest from wealthy individuals and tourists seeking premium experiences.
Sports Boats: Rising demand due to competitive water sports and adventure tourism.
Entry-Level Boats: Increasingly popular among middle-income groups for short-term recreational use.
By Propulsion Type:
Fuel-Powered Boats (41.10% share, 2024): Continue to dominate the market due to versatility and endurance across water types.
Sailboats: Preferred by eco-conscious travelers and traditional sailing enthusiasts.
Electric Boats: Fastest-growing category due to green energy policies and technological advancement.
By Activity:
Sailing & Leisure: Largest segment owing to the popularity of leisure cruising and island-hopping experiences.
Fishing: Witnessing robust growth, especially in North America and Europe.
Others: Includes competitive boating and adventure sports.
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Regional Insights
Europe – The Global Leader
Europe dominates the global boat rental market, accounting for over 35% of revenue in 2024. Spain, Italy, France, and Croatia are the top contributors, supported by extensive coastlines and established maritime tourism infrastructure. The Mediterranean region, with its dense network of marinas and high concentration of luxury travelers, continues to be the epicenter of global yacht rentals.
Average Weekly Charter Prices in Europe:
Boat Type Size Range Average Weekly Cost
Sailing Yacht 80–120 ft $20,000–$50,000
Catamaran 50–65 ft $15,000–$30,000
Motor Yacht 120–150 ft $80,000–$150,000
North America
North America holds a significant market share, driven by the U.S. and Canada. Platforms such as Boatsetter and Uber Boat have simplified peer-to-peer rentals. Growing interest in water sports, fishing, and corporate leisure travel further supports market expansion.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific is poised for rapid growth due to increasing disposable incomes, coastal tourism in Thailand, Indonesia, and Australia, and government investment in marine infrastructure. Emerging economies like India and Vietnam are also developing new boating destinations.
Competitive Landscape
Key players in the global boat rental market are focusing on expanding their digital presence, forming strategic alliances, and adopting eco-friendly technologies.
Major Companies:
GetMyBoat, Inc.
Click&Boat
Sailo
SamBoat
GlobeSailor
Yachtico Inc.
Boatjump SL
BoatBureau
Ocean Serenity
Boatsetter
Groupe Beneteau
Zizoo
BorrowABoat
Incrediblue
Boatbay
West Coast Marine
Odyssey Boats
Le Boat
The Moorings
Nautal
These companies compete through platform innovation, flexible pricing, premium customer service, and sustainable fleet offerings.
Future Outlook
The Boat Rental Market is evolving rapidly with the rise of digital booking systems, sustainable propulsion technologies, and a growing culture of marine leisure activities. The increasing adoption of electric boats, government initiatives to promote coastal tourism, and enhanced connectivity between tourists and boat owners are expected to fuel market expansion through 2032.
The shift toward eco-conscious travel, combined with the luxury tourism boom, positions the global boat rental market for strong, sustained growth in the coming years.