The recreational marine industry is one of BC’s largest and most vital industries. It includes boat manufacturing and repair yards, marinas, marine sales and a range of other businesses related to pleasure crafting.

The marine industry operates year round, with a peak season from spring to early fall. The industry employs thousands of British Columbians and will need almost 200 more workers by 2010.

The jobs available are diverse. Some call for minimal training, while skilled workers have a variety of employment options. Many trades people transfer to the marine industry and apply their skills in new ways. 

Fast Facts

BC’s recreational marine industry:

1. Employs 1,566 boat manufacturing staff (almost 25% of Canada’s total boat manufacturing employees)
2. Has experienced substantial growth in the past 10 years
3. Produces luxury motoryachts measuring more than 100 feet
4. Generates $277 million in boat manufacturing revenues

Canada’s recreational marine industry:

1. Employs more than 150,000 people
2. Average wages of recreational marine employees in Canada grew 15% between 2001 and 2006
3. Canada is home to almost 3 million pleasure boats
4. Pumps an estimated $15.6 billion into the national economy
5. Annual spending at Canadian marinas and yacht clubs is around $3.7 billion.
6. The vast majority of Canadian marinas are owner-operated, family businesses.
7. Dry-land boat dealers in Canada made $1.3 billion in sales in 2006.
8. If boating tourism were integrated with tourism activity, it would account for 10% of Canada’s tourism dollar.