Competition is growing in the boating industry. To remain competitive, boating manufacturers must continue to invest in cutting-edge technology.
ABYC Standards
ABYC develops and maintains safety standards for all types of boats. These standards are based on research and collaboration among more than 400 voluntary marine professionals. They are the basis for yacht certification and increased liability protection. ABYC standards are also used by major boating industry players, such as the National Marine Manufacturers Association.
ABYC also offers education courses that lead to certification for boat builders. Boat builders who wish to become certified must first become a member of ABYC and purchase the current manual. Each of the eight courses is designed for marine professionals, and applicants must fit one of these categories to qualify. NOCTI Business Solutions nationally accredit the program. The ABYC standards apply to all major boat systems and are the basis for certification for marine professionals and boat builders.
Compliance with Federal Regulations
One of the most critical aspects of manufacturing a boat is compliance with Federal regulations. Boating Manufacturers must demonstrate that their products are safe for consumers. Some boats, such as hovercraft, personal watercraft, and submarines, are exempt from federal regulation. Moreover, boating regulations apply to non-conventional watercraft as well. These watercraft include drift boats, race boats, and mini bass boats. Despite these requirements, boating manufacturers must follow them to stay in business.
There is a solution. A boat manufacturer can meet all these regulations by installing the right equipment. Boating regulations also apply to inland waterways. If a boat manufacturer fails to comply with the rules, it could lose its license. In addition, manufacturers can receive a citation under 1.3 for not complying.
Design Process
The design process of boating manufacturers is a critical component of building a quality vessel. A boat’s design translates the customer’s vision into precise runs for domestic and mechanical systems. After assembling the boat, a team of skilled craftsmen puts it through extensive testing to ensure it meets specifications. The process is documented in the owner’s manual. Throughout the design process, the customer is kept informed of the project’s progress and can provide input and feedback.
The boat body is a complex shape, so measuring by hand would have been time-consuming and inaccurate. For this reason, a CAD model was necessary. An engineer with CAD skills recommended using 3D laser scanning to capture the exact shape of the boat. Then, he debriefed the engineer and owner, and the model was sent to the local company. After the boat was built, the engineer could start debugging the design process.
Millennials are the Future of Boating.
The next generation of consumers will be more concerned with the environment and downtime. Millennials and Gen Z are growing more aware of the benefits of spending time outside in nature. Being out and close to nature has enormous mental health benefits. Boating improves cognitive function, emotional health, and physical well-being. Millennials are using more sea toys than any other generation. Millennials, who have become boating enthusiasts, are eager to learn more about boating.
The average age of new yacht buyers has exceeded 60, which is growing. To maintain performance levels, manufacturers and dealers may look to tap into millennials’ youthful perspective. However, while the average age of boat owners is increasing, the percentage of millennials in the industry has remained steady at around 20 percent. As a result, the industry needs to cater to these younger buyers. In addition, many working boomers may be receptive to millennials as long as they are willing to change their ways.