The industry is facing increasing competition, said Repass, highlighting the decline in boating from an average of 8.5 days a month in 2003 down to 6.1 days a month in 2007.

He went on to point out boating is suffering at the hands of other pasttimes, such as jogging and working out with equipment.

Customers want new and exciting products, he insists, such as the innovations award winner of last year, the Torqeedo electric outboard motor. And, he added, quality is very important to the customer.

'Quality is our number one concern at West Marine,' he said, adding that manufacturers and retailers should make more use of online product ratings. 'It's time we tapped into that vast knowledge base of boaters to improve our products.'

But in a keynote speech that made much of the factors affecting boating, Repass made no mention of the rising cost of fuel.

Disappointing DAME for UK

In a year that saw the judges decide against making awards in three categories, UK companies failed to win a single DAME Award and had to content themselves with special mentions instead.

Sea Sure collected a special mention for its 420 Genesis rudder stock, Gill received one for its Compressor buoyancy aid and Henri-Lloyd took one for its Atmosphere jacket. The overall Dame Award went to the Italian firm Opacmare S.p.A for its Teaky Beach stern platform chaise longue.