Scenic and Sightseeing Transportation, Water — Business Survival Rate

An estimated 44% of scenic and sightseeing transportation, water businesses survive their first 5 years, based on U.S. Census Bureau Business Dynamics Statistics. The annual business closure rate is 15.0%.

44%
5-Year Survival Rate
+17.3%
Net Growth Rate
1,579
Total Firms
217
Annual Firm Deaths

Is Scenic and Sightseeing Transportation, Water a Good Business to Start?

With a 44% five-year survival rate, scenic and sightseeing transportation, water has a below-average survival rate compared to the national average of ~50%. This indicates higher risk of failure — new entrants face significant competitive pressure or challenging economics.

The annual exit rate of 15.0% is elevated. If you're considering entering this industry, ensure adequate capitalization, a clear competitive advantage, and realistic timeline to profitability.

Entry vs. Exit Rates

Annual rate of new businesses opening versus existing businesses closing.

Entry Rate (new businesses)15.7%
Exit Rate (closures)15.0%

Net positive: more businesses opening than closing (+0.7 pp spread).

Job Creation & Destruction

29.5%
Job Creation Rate
12.2%
Job Destruction Rate
+17.3%
Net Job Growth

The industry is adding jobs faster than losing them — a positive sign for both workers and new business owners looking to hire. Total employment: 14,782 workers across 1,579 firms.

Want to know how much scenic and sightseeing transportation, water businesses actually make?

See full revenue benchmarks for Scenic and Sightseeing Transportation, Water →

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of scenic and sightseeing transportation, water businesses fail?
Approximately 56% of scenic and sightseeing transportation, water businesses fail within their first 5 years. The annual closure rate is 15.0%, with 217 firms closing permanently in 2023.
Is the scenic and sightseeing transportation, water industry growing or shrinking?
The scenic and sightseeing transportation, water industry is currently growing with a net job creation rate of +17.3% per year. New businesses are entering at 15.7% while 15.0% close annually.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Business Dynamics Statistics (2023). Survival rate estimated from annual exit rates.