The recreational boating industry has been through its shares of ups and downs throughout the years. Today’s industry is certainly different than it was pre-2008 recession. Yet, it might be better than it ever has been.

While one of the earliest trends post-recession was bigger, faster center-console fishing boats, some of the latest innovations point to a broader strengthening of the recreational boating industry.

SOLACE 345

Tired of fishing boats all looking the same? SOLACE recently unveiled something that may interest you. Its 345 features what the company is calling a “FishThru” transom.

Thanks to that unique transom design, the aft-seating, typically a bench across the back of the cockpit, is made of two seating units set at an angle with livewells and rod holders behind them. It’s certainly eye-catching, and helps to set the 345 apart from other fishing boats. It comes from the family that founded EdgeWater and Everglades Boats so you know the quality will be top-notch.

Aviara AV32

While MasterCraft has been known as an industry leader in the watersports realm, it’s their new Aviara line that’s catching some attention.

The new AV32 packs MasterCraft’s fit and finish into a craft that more closely resembles a European bowrider than most of what’s being built stateside these days. It can be equipped with either sterndrive or outboard power so possible uses are fairly versatile.

Some of the more unique features include heated seats and bar stools on the transom. There is also a wealth of color combinations available.

Chaparral 300 OSX

An outboard-powered, center-line-helm equipped Chaparral? Yep! The 300 OSX offers that and much more.

If you enjoy entertaining, the 300 OSX’s helm seat swivels to the starboard side to create even more spots for party-goers. Combine that with the full-length sunpad that the company calls Vista View, and you’ve got a multitude of social spaces.

Evinrude 1.9-Liter Outboards

Outboards pumping out huge amounts of horsepower have been the trend for many years now. Seven Marine is probably the most well-known with their 527, 577 and 627. Mercury has its 400hp Verado and Mercury Racing line which currently features the 450R at the top. Even Yamaha exceeds the 400hp threshold with the XTO Offshore. Yet, Evinrude’s latest outboards cater to boaters with slightly lower horsepower requirements.

The new 1.9-liter, three-cylinder motors are available in 115 H.O., 140hp or 150hp models. They share some of the features found on the company’s larger G2 outboards, and there’s even a digital tiller available for the 115 and 140.

Valhalla Boatworks V41

You might not have heard of Valhalla Boatworks just yet, but chances are you’re familiar with the company that created it. Viking Yacht Company.

The trend of new center-consoles surely isn’t going away, but the space below the 50-foot and larger boats appears to be getting filled by some very nice offerings. Currently, Valhalla has a 33, 37 and 41 listed as upcoming models. The V41 can be equipped with a tower, and looks like it will be an offshore beast.

It’s been over 10 years since the recreational boating industry underwent some massive changes, but it appears that what emerged on the other side has only gotten stronger. Innovation is on full display across multiple segments and companies, and boaters have many great choices when it comes to boats and powering them. Hopefully, the lessons learned will be used to further strengthen the industry to the benefit of boaters worldwide.