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Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada has mirrored countries around the globe in shutting down large parts of the economy. Public gatherings are banned or strictly limited; parks and outdoor amenities have been shuttered; and non-essential workplaces ordered closed. As elsewhere, Canadians are being told to stay home and 'flatten the curve'.

In the recreational boating sector, this has meant a near-blanket closure of marinas and retail showrooms. Manufacturers and distributors have had to scale-back their operations and furlough workers. The effect on our industry has been dire: according to a survey done last month by Boating Industry Canada, nearly three-quarters of respondents reported a sales decline of at least 30 percent, and 45 percent had laid-off staff. The seasonal aspect of outdoor recreation and associated revenue has also made it harder for many of our members to qualify for government aid, and NMMA has been advocating for policy reforms to better reflect the needs of our sector.

However, recent events give cause for guarded optimism. Successive provinces have in the past two weeks announced plans to gradually reopen the economy and ease restrictions around outdoor activities. For example, following joint advocacy by NMMA and Boating Ontario, the Ontario government has allowed marinas to “begin preparations for the recreational boating season by servicing boats and other watercraft and placing boats in the water, but not open to the public.” This small but meaningful step is a welcome relief for marina operators who earn the vast bulk of their income in a relatively short season. Most provinces have also begun to reopen public parks and boat ramps, and sportfishing and hunting seasons are starting on schedule.

Based on pandemic trends, NMMA is also optimistic that Canadian marine retailers will soon be able to reopen with enhanced sanitation and physical distancing. We continue to call on governments to treat boat dealers the same as auto and motorcycle dealers (for example, see our recent letter to Ontario Premier Doug Ford). At this stage we do not see buying a boat as posing any greater a risk than buying a car, provided businesses follow all the proper guidelines.

As warm weather approaches, Canadians will be venturing outdoors and looking for safe ways to spend time with family and friends. Our sector has a huge opportunity to present recreational boating as a fun and affordable activity that can be enjoyed while socially distancing. The mental health benefits of being on the water are well-known. In the meantime, we encourage you to explore the resources on the NMMA Canada COVID-19 webpage, including our running list of provincial and territorial restrictions.