Record-Breaking Sales for Boston Whaler and Sea Ray at FLIBS

Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) announced this morning a record-breaking performance at the 2021 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) in terms of dollar sales and units sold. FLIBS was the debut for the 600-hp Mercury V12 Verado and was Boston Whaler’s 50th anniversary of its Outrage series. 

According to Brunswick, Mercury Marine had more outboard engines on display in Ft. Lauderdale than any other manufacturer, accounting for over half of all outboard engines at the show. We can attest to this, as we were surprised at the number of Mercury 450Rs which we saw in twin, triple and quad installations all around the show. 

Mercury says that this is the fourth consecutive year for it to have the most units on display.  Mercury is proud of this because it reinforces its brand acceptance among a growing number of saltwater boat builders.

Boston Whaler recorded record sales during the five-day show with a 35% increase in revenue vs. last year’s event, according to Brunswick, and Sea Ray reported a 30% increase in revenue vs. the 2020 show.

“The Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show is one of the most important boat shows in the world - it sets the tone for the U.S. Fall boat show season and is a good indicator of consumer sentiment carrying into the following year,” said Dave Foulkes, Brunswick Corporation CEO. “Mercury continues to capture high share in key markets.”

600-hp Mercury V12 Verado

FLIBS was the show debut for Mercury’s 600-hp V12 Verado (BoatTEST Report), as well as Sea Ray’s 370 Sundancer (see BoatTEST video test), both launched earlier in the year. Boston Whaler hosted the final stop of its 50th anniversary 420 Outrage “Homecoming Tour” (See BoatTEST Report on the Whaler 420) at FLIBS with a VIP event featuring an appearance by renowned marine artist and conservationist Guy Harvey.