A sharp decline in sales in 2024
The year 2024 saw a significant drop in new boat sales in Finland. According to Finnboat statistics, registrations of new boats were fell by 19.6% compared with the previous year, totalling 2,631 new registrations. This trend mainly affected small outboard motorboats, which account for the bulk of the Finnish market.
Despite this drop, the second-hand market remained very active, with 23,506 changes of ownership recorded, a level close to that of 2023. This situation illustrates the long life of boats and the importance of the second-hand market in the sector.
An export industry under pressure
Finnish boat exports suffered a sharp decline in 2024. According to Finnish Customs, export volumes fell by 39%, while the overall value of exports dropped by 24% to 252.6 million euros. The main export markets, namely the USA, Norway and Sweden, recorded sharp declines, particularly in Sweden, where shipments fell by 58% in value.
The situation could improve in 2025, however, with signs of a recovery in demand in certain markets and a stronger presence for Finnish manufacturers at international boat shows.
Local players dominate the domestic market
Finnish brands continue to dominate the domestic market. Leading the way in new motorboat registrations are Buster (350 units), followed by Suvi (184) and Faster (180). Brand names Silver , Yamarin and Terhi also passed the 100 new registrations mark.
Concerning sailboats, only 17 new models were registered in 2024, a stable figure compared to 2023. French manufacturer Beneteau was the most represented, with four registered units, while the largest registered yacht, a 15-meter Swan 48, was built by Nautor's Swan in Pietarsaari.
Cautious confidence for 2025
Despite a declining market in 2024, the outlook for 2025 is more optimistic. According to Finnboat's economic survey, 44% of companies anticipate an increase in sales, while 43% expect sales to remain stable. Some 23% of companies plan to increase their workforce, while only 9% expect to reduce it.
Activity in the sector could be boosted by improved purchasing power and consumer confidence. The increased presence of new models at the Helsinki Vene Båt show is also an encouraging signal for the start of the 2025 season.
A future conditioned by economic conditions
The recovery of the Finnish boating industry will depend on a number of factors: the evolution of the economic situation, the recovery of consumer spending, and the appeal of small and medium-sized boats. While exports represent an essential part of the market, builders will also have to adjust their strategy in the face of international competition and the new needs of boaters.
