The customer journey doesn't end when a boat is sold. It begins long before the purchase and continues through every experience on the water and beyond. From initial interest and product research to boat shows, dealership visits, purchasing, onboarding, operation, service and repair, every touchpoint presents an opportunity to build confidence and loyalty — or create friction that drives customers away.

How can the recreational marine industry work together to remove obstacles, simplify decision-making and create a more seamless, connected ownership experience?

Grounded in new research identifying the pain points and frustrations of current boat owners, this panel will bring together industry leaders to examine where the customer experience falls short and explore opportunities for meaningful improvement.

The discussion will address simplifying the path to purchase, improving the transition from sales to ownership, enhancing education and support, building a sense of community, and streamlining maintenance and repairs to minimize downtime and get boaters back on the water faster.

The goal: Move beyond simply selling boats to creating an exceptional ownership experience that builds lasting relationships, strengthens customer retention and inspires lifelong participation in boating.