Groupe Beneteau has released its forecasts for the 2011/12 financial year, stating that total boat sales are expected to be down 10.7 per cent to €620m. Nevertheless, the figure outperforms Beneteau’s estimated drop in the global boating market of 20 per cent. As a result, the group’s consolidated sales for 2011/12 are estimated at €855m, down 7.2 per cent. “For the Boat business, 2011/12 is expected to be marked by significantly different trends depending on the markets, with the European region penalised by the climate of unease seen this autumn-winter, during the main period for taking orders," says the company. "This unprecedented situation is expected to temporarily have an adverse impact on the group’s business."