Watercraft theft and recovery data reported to the National Crime Information Center from January 2006 to March 2009 was reviewed for all 50 US states, plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Overall, there were 19,854 reported watercraft thefts during the period. There was a 2.47 percent decrease in thefts from 2006 to 2008. Of the total reported thefts for the period, 9,060 were recovered which translates to 45.63 percent. The recoveries experienced an upward trend for the period.

The top five states for thefts in descending order are Florida, California, Texas, Michigan and North Carolina while the top five for recoveries are Florida, California, Texas, Washington and Michigan.

A value was determined for only 334 of the total thefts and that amounted to more than $5.2 million with the most expensive single loss valued at $600,000. The average value of these 334 watercraft was just over $15,000.

Although watercraft theft is mostly a seasonal crime, many states have year round seasons and owners need to practice safe and smart boating which includes personal safety while on the water as well as theft prevention.

The watercraft definition in this report included pontoon boats, dinghies, rowboats, canoes, personal watercraft, sailboats, speedboats, powerboats and kayaks.