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Fuel prices are shaping summer plans as US boaters get ready to hit the water
Boaters are cutting trips and operators are adding fuel surcharges as AAA says regular gas is 34% higher than a year ago.
Americans planning summer boating trips face higher costs as fuel prices remain elevated, AAA reported Friday, with regular gasoline costing 34% more than a year earlier.
Recreational boaters are feeling the pinch from the Iran war, which has driven diesel fuel prices up 53% from last year, forcing difficult decisions about summer outings.
Robert Hinds, owner of Central Coast Angling, ruled out a Wisconsin fishing trip after calculating $400 in diesel costs, while Neil Donohoe noted the 'eye-popping' expense filling his 1,500-gallon boat.
Hinds added a $50 fuel surcharge to Central Coast Angling trips after multiple cancellations, while Melissa Kunnert, owner of NautiMi, held prices steady despite higher fuel costs.
The National Marine Manufacturers Association says most boaters still plan to hit the water this year, though Ellen Bradley, the association's chief brand officer, noted many are changing behavior to spend more time anchored.