Momentum at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show signaled a clear shift in the marine industry, with stronger buyer confidence and steady interest throughout the week. The Open 402 drew consistent attention inside the exhibit hall for its refined layout, luxury features, and offshore capability, reinforcing Sportsman’s forward direction. With easing rates and growing demand, the energy at the show points toward a stronger year ahead.
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•Rebounding consumer confidence and renewed boating interest as buyers arrive with specs in mind.
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•The Open 402 stands out as a benchmark for the category, signaling refined luxury, innovation and offshore capability.
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•Financing is improving and Sportsman introduced two new models at FLIBS, signaling a positive market trajectory.
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is always a bellwether for the marine industry — a chance to take the pulse of the market and see what’s ahead. And this year, the energy in the Sportsman Boats booth told a story that’s both encouraging and exciting.
Strong Interest, Real Conversations
While it’s no secret that the broader market has faced headwinds over the past year, FLIBS 2025 showed clear signs that consumer confidence is rebounding. Foot traffic in the booth was steady throughout the week, and our lineup drew consistent attention — particularly the Open 402, which turned heads for its blend of luxury, innovation, and performance.
From serious buyers to curious enthusiasts, one theme was clear: interest in boating is picking back up. Families, fishermen, and weekend cruisers alike are returning to the conversation, and they’re more educated than ever — coming in with specs in mind, and a clear idea of what they want.
Market Signals Turning Positive
We’re also beginning to see broader indicators shifting in our favor. The Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut is a welcome step toward more accessible financing, and dealers across the country are seeing some more activity and inquiries.
Historically, boat sales have followed the housing, auto, and RV markets in rebounding after rate adjustments — and all signs point to that pattern emerging again. It’s early, but optimism is returning to the docks.
The 402 Steals the Show
Without question, the Open 402 was a crowd magnet. Its layout, luxury finish, and offshore capability continue to set a new benchmark for the category. From its Seakeeper Ride system to the dual side entry doors, brand-new panoramic windshield design and yacht-style amenities, the boat embodies where Sportsman is heading as a brand: refined, bold, and ready for any adventure. Sportsman 3.0
Even among industry veterans, the feedback was unanimous — the 402 looks and feels like a big step forward for the segment.
Looking Ahead
FLIBS confirmed what many of us have been sensing: the market may have slowed, but the passion for boating hasn’t gone anywhere. With rates easing, demand stabilizing, and attention shifting back toward the water, we’re entering a new phase — one that rewards brands that stayed consistent, continued innovating, and kept delivering value and transparency.
At Sportsman, that’s exactly what we’ve done, pushing the envelope for new models with two new model introductions at this years show.
Here’s to a strong close to the year — and a promising start to the next.
To see the Open 402 check out our most recent episode of "The Sportsman Insider" below.
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