Boating Shortages: Thank Poseidon that I'm not in the market for a boat!!

[Roccus7]

Got this email today from the boatyard I bought my used boat from 5 years ago, so glad I'm not looking for a new one. If I was, and I didn't have one, looks like I would be joining the Freedom Boat Club...

​ We're writing to inform you about current delays and shortages in the boating industry supply chain. Fueled by increased interest in boating and outdoor activities in response to the pandemic, these shortages are industry-wide and include not only boats but also outboard engines, marine parts, and supplies. Unfortunately, the situation is beyond our control. We, along with other boat dealers nationwide, are expecting this trend to continue throughout 2021 and possibly into the first or second quarter of 2022. We wanted to share this information because we value exceptional customer service and transparency. That said, customers should be prepared to see increased prices and fewer brand promotions from manufacturers as they struggle to keep up with demand. To help us and yourselves, you'll want to be as proactive as possible. Below are a few suggestions to consider. ​ For new boat orders - If you're in the market for a new boat, the sooner you place an order and get into the manufacturing queue, the better. Delays with some boat builders are months long and some aren't anticipating delivery on new vessels until 2022. Contact our team and they can provide you with availability estimates. For used boat purchases - If you're looking for a used boat, current in-stock inventory is tight and used boats that do come on the market are selling fast. But that doesn't mean we can't find you what you want. Our sales team has extensive networks of marine industry contacts to help locate the boat of your dreams. It just might take them a bit longer to find it. You don't want to miss your chance at the perfect boat, so be sure to reach out to us as soon as you can.

​ ​ For selling your boat - If you are considering selling your boat, now is a perfect time! Demand for used boats is high. We're paying top dollar for trade-ins of quality used power boats from year 2000 and newer. Not sure how much your boat is worth? Click the button below to get a free estimate on the value of your vessel. There's even a link on our site to the NADA Guide to review new and used boat pricing research from JD Power and Associates.

​ ​ For maintenance and repairs - If you know your boat has work that needs to be done, contact our service department as early as possible to schedule maintenance and/or repairs as they may need additional time to secure the necessary parts required.

​ ​ Special Freedom Boat Club offer - We don't want anyone to miss out on a summer of boating. It's one of the best things about living in Maine. For customers who want to purchase a new boat, but can't get one in time for this year's boating season, we're offering a special membership offer from Freedom Boat Club (FBC). Join the club and the one time membership fee paid can be used towards the purchase of a new vessel.

​ Our entire team at Boat Yard is committed to doing everything we can to meet all your boating needs. We appreciate your patience and welcome you to contact us with any questions you may have. Thank you, Boat Yard​

 

[Roccus7]

Caught this blurb in the BoatU.S. rag today regarding "Which states love boating most?" Based on 2018 data, the latest available. The top five states with highest percentage of household that owned boats were Maine (33.1%), Alaska (32.2%), New Hampshire (29.7%), and Minnesota (27.8%).

 

[BennyV]

There’s gonna be some good deals next year.

 

[Roccus7]

There’s gonna be some good deals next year.

Agree, but many of the new generation of CCs, which were morphed into the family boat when walk-thru cabins disappeared, have converted the bow casting platforms to gunnel lounge chairs so Momma can lay back and get tan, DFAQ?????????????

Add to that, the naiveté of a first-time boat buyer may mean that many of the ones on the market may mean boats that were strong on fluff, but short of key sea worthiness and fishing features. Yup, they'll be a great sound system and indoor/outdoor carpeting, but where's the compass, livewell, etc.?

Of course, this is coming from someone who considers the sole use for a boat is salt water fishing; anything else is a waste of fiberglass or aluminum...