Here we go…

Andy Adams

Jan 21, 2025

But, go where? That’s what everyone seems to be uncertain about. Yesterday, Donald Trump was inaugurated as the President of the United States for the second time and it sounds like he is much more prepared this time. He may clear up a lot of the uncertainty pretty fast as he puts through an historic number of Executive Orders.

Immigration will be a top target and possibly, tariffs will be too. But will the tariffs be on everyone? On China? Mexico? Canada? It’s more uncertainty right now. Every country will be planning a response, as best they can, given that they don’t yet know what they are responding to. The U.S. boating press has written about how even in their home market, uncertainty is a significant drag on boat sales. I expect that’s at least equally true here. Are you feeling that from your customers?

Even people with lots of disposable income seem hesitant to pull the trigger.

This past weekend, the Toronto International Boat Show opened and the show floor is packed including several boat brands I have never seen before. It’s a bright and great-looking show. I suspect that the Vancouver show in just a few weeks will look just as good. Boating is putting up a brave face right now.

I think that is exactly what we should be doing. We deal with smart and successful people. Regardless of what happens as the new U.S. Administration comes in, there will be winners – we always see that.

As always, summer is coming. That always lifts everyone’s spirits and a new boat is an exciting boost. I think that if we wade into this market uncertainty, we will find buyers.

Another thing that I’m feeling positive about is that NOAA has withdrawn the North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Strike Reduction rule. That will help anyone taking a boat up or down the coast. I’m very positive about protecting our environment, but we need smart and long-term ideas on how to make things better.

I guess that’s a way of saying that I’d really like to see some smart and well-founded thinking from our leaders to guide us through this time of high uncertainty.

Will we get that?

Andy Adams – Editor

Related Posts





BC Marine Search and Rescue Responder Duncan Peacock wins 12th Annual Tim Jones Award

NMEA

By Mathew Channer

Duncan Peacock, resident of Kitimat BC and member of Kitimat Marine Search and Rescue and RCMSAR Unit 63, has been awarded the 12th annual Tim Jones Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Outdoor Community in British Columbia.

Peacock has been a member of Kitimat Marine Search and Rescue and RCMSAR Unit 63 for 31 years, making him one of the longest-serving members in the province.

Read More




Need to Catch up on News This Week?

Every Tuesday we publish a fresh Digest with informative articles pertaining to the Canadian boating and marine industry. Stay up to date with the latest products, research and industry developments.

Missed an Issue of Boating Industry Canada News Week? If you’re looking for a specific issue, or simply want to catch up on previous issues, check out our Boating Industry Canada News Week Archives.

Not signed up for News Week? Subscribe here.



Starcraft 1957 Ski Champ Replica Makes Waves

By Mathew Channer

Among the many shiny new boats at January’s Toronto International Boat Show a surprise contender stood out, a replica of the Starcraft 1957 Ski Champ, taking pride of place near the main entrance.

Read More



Top 10 Features of the RS Quest – Celebrating 10 Years!

Hubbell-Marine Stainless steel outlet covers

2025 is a pretty special year for RS Sailing, who are celebrating 10 years of the RS Quest! This training dinghy has become the go-to for sailing schools and youth programs all over the world. Initially created in partnership with the UK Sea Cadets to replace their aging fleet, designer Jo Richards and the RS Sailing development team wanted to make sure the RS Quest was built to break the mould.

Read More