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Local boat ownership
on the rise

Every year the U.S. Coast Guard publishes statistics regarding the number of boats registered in this country, as reported by each of our 50 states.

In turn, the National Marine Manufacturers Association elaborates on that report by publishing its annual Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract that helps its members determine their marketing strategies for an industry that boasted some 72 million involved consumers and nearly $30 billion in total expenditures in 2003 -- the most recent statistical base.

For several years, I have used data from NMMA's annual abstract in this column to illustrate just how far behind the curve recreational boat ownership and boating-related industries are in Hawaii.

And invariably, I've generated the most reader reaction by noting the fact that our state, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, has consistently had fewer registered boats than any other state in the country.

Somehow the news that Wyoming -- which is totally land-locked -- with a much smaller population than Hawaii, has year after year claimed more registered boats than our island paradise, came as quite a revelation.

So imagine my surprise to discover that in this year's latest NMMA abstract, using the data from 2003, it shows for the first time in memory, Hawaii is now ranked 49th.

The Aloha State has finally overtaken the Cowboy State, and not just in registered boats, but also in new boat sales and total dollars spent on boats and marine accessories.

Who knew we could make such a leap while our state-run recreational boating infrastructure has been crumbling around us?

My guess is that the upswing in numbers has had more to do with an increase in trailered-boat ownership, rather than an upsurge in registered boats that require moorings.

Still, the next thing you know we'll be threatening Vermont for its coveted 48th position, and then West Virginia and eventually North Dakota. It could happen.

After all, our country's baby-boomer population is just now reaching an age where they have the time and disposable income to find recreational boating -- and Hawaii -- very attractive.

The recent brisk sales of houses and condos at Oahu's Ko Olina Resort and its plan to double the size of its marina, give graphic examples of good planning for future demands.

A more negative example might be the more-than-a-decade-long waiting lists for boat slips on Maui.

Much of that unfulfilled demand for boat moorings is being fueled by the hundreds of new homeowners who have moved there and now want the rest of their dream of paradise.

If ever there was a time for Hawaii's government -- which controls virtually all of the protected waters in the state -- to either become more proactive in marina development and maintenance, or to partner with the private sector to get the job done, it is now.

The payoff will manifest itself not only in more happy boaters, but also in new business starts and jobs - the NMMA statistics prove it.