La boating is among the excellences of the Made in Italy, as well as a key sector of the Blue Economy (180 billion equal to 10% of GDP). With a turnover of 16,4 billion, over 3 billion in added value and exports that have exceeded 8 billion on average in the last three years, the Italian shipbuilding industry It is a manufacturing enterprise comprising nearly a thousand companies and over 30 employees. It's no coincidence that over 20% of European sales are from Italian products.
Last June Sace participated in the 65st Genoa Boat Show for operational meetings with companies in the sector. Expansion, competitiveness, and sustainability are the three pillars of development. In Italy, tourist ports are not simply docking points, but true strategic infrastructures with a key role in coastal mobility, tourism promotion, and strengthening economic and cultural relations. They are a driving force for the growth of local production chains and contribute significantly to the country's competitiveness.
Growing exports and leadership in high-end segments
With a market share of 5,2%, Italy is the world's fourth largest exporter of ships, behind the main Asian producers. The share rises to 30,8% and 19,3%, respectively, in the cruise ship and pleasure boat segments. Despite the slight decline recorded in 2024, the sector remains a cornerstone of Italian quality manufacturing, contributing 1,2% of exports.
Over the past ten years, theexport of ships It grew at an average rate of 8,2%, reaching 7,2 billion. Recreational boats (4,3 billion) and cruise ships (2,6 billion euros) account for over 90% of export sales, while commercial boats (280 million) continue to be a segment dominated by large Asian shipyards. In terms of markets, 21% of exports are destined for Usa, while UK e China are close to 15%. The recreational boating segment is more diversified, with destinations such as Turkey, United Arab Emirates e Singapore growing.
A positive 2025 and growth prospects until 2028
The first four months of the year confirmed a growth trend for all segments (+45% compared to the same period in 2024), led by cruise ship deliveries (+38,5%), but also by an excellent dynamic in the nautical sector pleasure (+22). This year, overall turnover is expected to stabilize at 16 billion, returning to growth from 2026 at an average rate of +3%. The sector is expected to generate 4 billion in added value by 2028.
Italian shipyards manage just under two-thirds of the global order book for ships due for delivery through 2036, for a total turnover of approximately 37 billion. And thanks to the push from superyacht, recreational boating seems to remain immune from the trade tensions.
