Discover Boating’s New TV Spot Taps Sports Culture to Inspire the Next Generation of Boaters

Discover Boating, powered by NMMA and MRAA, premiered its latest See You Out Here campaign spot during the nationally televised American Century Championship—airing 42 times on NBC and the Golf Channel throughout the tournament weekend as part of the its sponsorship and integrated brand experience at the event.

Why sports?

“Boating and sports culture naturally intersect. Sports fans—especially those who enjoy golf, baseball, and football—overlap demographically and psychographically with potential future boaters,” said Kevin Williams, NMMA's vice president of North American marketing. “They value leisure, quality time with family and friends, and aspirational lifestyles, making them prime audiences for boating inspiration.”

To tap into this mindset, Discover Boating’s new spot features former MLB All-Star and boating enthusiast Gary Sheffield, alongside his longtime friend and former NFL linebacker, Takeo Spikes. Both athletes are not only well-known sports personalities, but also authentic boaters—helping to position boating as a natural extension of their lifestyle and appeal to fans who may be considering boating for the first time.

By integrating relevant voices from the sports world, Discover Boating is meeting new audiences where they are and presenting boating as an accessible and rewarding way to spend their free time. It’s a strategic step toward expanding the market for recreational boating by driving interest and long-term participation in the boating lifestyle.