Current Compass: MDL’s Data-Driven Insight for the Marine Industry

MDL Marinas has launched Current Compass, a new annual report delivering real-world data insights to the marine sector. Building on two years of its successful Insights report, this evolution offers stakeholders trusted intelligence grounded in live marina operations rather than projections.

Unlike traditional survey-led reports, Current Compass draws on operational data from MDL’s 18 UK marinas. The result is an accurate, actionable view of boating behaviour, spending, and market trends.

• Market transition – A shift from volume to value, as boaters prioritise premium, experience-led services.
• Seasonal trends – Strong spring demand, stable winter revenue, and signs of summer recovery.
• Regional insights – The Solent remains dominant, the Southwest is growing, while the Thames and East Coast hold untapped potential.
• Customer demographics – A largely over-55 customer base, but younger boaters are creating opportunities for flexible, lifestyle-driven offerings.
• Boat types and spending – Motorboats continue to lead, with strong demand for convenience and technical services across both motor and sail.

Designed for boatbuilders, brokerages, service providers and investors, Current Compass provides clarity on customer behaviour, regional dynamics, and spending patterns. Early adopters of MDL’s insights have already used the data to refine services and optimise operations.

The Current Compass 2025 Report is available now at www.currentcompass.co.uk, priced at £225. An introductory 20% discount is available until 30 September with code CC2025.

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