The Balearic Islands register a decline in recreational boat registrations in 2025

The Balearic archipelago closed the first half of 2025 with a 32.3% drop in recreational boat registrations compared to the same period last year, according to the latest report published by the National Association of Nautical Companies (ANEN).

In total, 2,792 boats were registered in Spain between January and June, representing an 8% decline across the national market. The figures reflect a widespread slowdown, particularly in the segment of boats up to 6 meters in length — the most popular category — which makes up 67% of the market and has suffered a year-on-year decrease of 10%.

In the ranking of provinces with the highest number of registrations, the Balearic Islands remain in first place with a total of 363 registered boats, followed by Barcelona with 360, and Alicante and Murcia with 248, demonstrating that the archipelago continues to hold a key position in the sector.

The Balearic Islands, traditionally a driving force in the nautical sector and the main hub for charter tourism in Spain, have also recorded a decline in the rental market, which has fallen by 21.1% nationwide, with only 905 vessels registered for this purpose. The islands account for 213 of these, making them the province with the largest market share, followed by Barcelona with 124 registrations and Alicante with 116.

Despite this context, the industry remains confident in the market’s ability to recover. After the post-pandemic boom years, the sector is now entering a phase of adjustment and stabilization. “This first half of the year confirms that the nautical market continues to go through a correction phase after years of growth,” says Jordi Carrasco, general director of the national nautical association. “At ANEN, we continue working with public administrations and the business community to strengthen the sector’s competitiveness, with particular focus on boosting charter activity and modernizing the nautical leisure options” he adds.