Although new boat sales had a hard landing during the recession, the boating industry has begun to recover. In 2012, sales recorded their first significant increase since the recession, rising an estimated 10 percent, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association.

As the winter boat show season began in New York City on Jan. 3, manufacturers and dealers have reason to be optimistic because the NMMA forecasts that sales will rise another 5 percent to 10 percent in the current year. Dealers in the Northeast have also reported an increase in traffic in the aftermath of super storm Sandy's destruction as consumers begin their search for replacement boats.

Click ahead for highlights from this year's New York boat show.

By CNBC's Katie Little
Posted 7 January 2013

Suggested Price: $1,200,000

Length: 51 feet

Manufacturer: Sea Ray

Each year, the largest boat at the Progressive New York Boat Show is named the "Queen," a title that the 510 Sundancer earned for 2013. This boat's many luxurious amenities will almost make you forget you're traveling by sea, rather than lounging in the comfort of your own home. It comes with two retractable sunroofs and a pivoting double helm seat, along with a gourmet galley for whipping up the fresh catch of the day.

Suggested Price: $279,000

Length: 34 feet

Manufacturer: Monterey Boats

One of Monterey's most popular models, the 340 Sport Yacht features full fiberglass headliners with vinyl accent panels along with optional joystick docking from either Mercury or Volvo. Each yacht's interior comes with leather upholstery, solid-surface counter tops, and simulated teak flooring.

Suggested Price: $438,000 to $602,000

Length: 36 feet

Manufacturer: Tiara Yachts

This completely new weekender/dayboat is the second biggest Cornet in Tiara Yachts' portfolio. Featuring seating for 10 and an oversized upper and lower cockpit, this model was made with entertainment in mind.

Suggested Price: $995,000

Length: 42 feet

Manufacturer: Marquis Yachts

Able to cruise at speeds in excess of 40 miles per hour, this yacht has salon entrance doors that open to create one large environment with the boat's cockpit. The boat's two staterooms and ample galley space provide enough room for comfortable weekend trips with friends or clients.

Suggested Price: $1,067,280

Length: 45 feet

Manufacturer: Formula Boats

Due to a coupe top design that is integrated with a motorized sunroof, the view is not obstructed at the front or sides by supports. An optional hydraulic platform for this yacht's platform make it easy to launch and re-board after a relaxing day spent on a personal watercraft or inflatable.

This model will also likely please the tech-savvy buyer with its 40-inch widescreen LCD TV, Bose Lifestyle surround-sound DVD/CD player, iPod docking station, five double-cube speakers, and powered subwoofer.

Suggested Price: $840,000 (The boat will be discounted to a range of $470,000 to $574,000 depending on features.)

Length: 42 feet

Manufacturer: Regal Boats

With a full-beam convertible hardtop, this yacht features a windshield walk-thru along with opening side windows and sliding glass doors for those who want some fresh air on the water. Inside, the galley beckons diners with Corian countertops with a hide-away two-burner stove. The yacht also features a master bedroom and mid-stateroom twin beds that can convert to a queen-size bed. One of this model's most unique features is its underwater lighting, which is sure to help your boat stand out in the crowd.

Suggested Price: $279,625 (base price)

Length: 31 feet

Manufacturer: Tiara Yachts

This dayboat features an oversized single-level cockpit and seating for more than 10 fellow boaters. The model also has two aft-facing lounge seats and an entertainment center with a refrigerator, sink, and electric grill.

Suggested Price: $290,000 to $340,000

Length: 32 feet

Manufacturer: Chris-Craft Boats

The Launch 32 is the newest and largest member of the Launch family. This model comes with an ergonomically designed helm and dash, along with circular bow seating with forward facing lounge seats. Both the cruise speed and maximum speed were listed as "TBA," which left us scratching our heads but intrigued.

Suggested Price: $525,000

Length: 38 feet

Manufacturer: Sabre Yachts

This vee-hulled yacht has a open design with a cockpit that is 5 inches below the main salon that allows easy communication between the spaces. Inspired by the Maine boat-building tradition, this boat features resign-infused laminates and a pod propulsion drive, not to mention excellent fuel economy for those who want to save on gas.

Suggested Price: $270,000 to $317,000

Length: 35 feet

Manufacturer: Regal Boats

With a push of a button, the 35 Sport Coupe's convertible top retracts to provide extra sunning on the water. Its single-level cockpit enables the captain to steer, while also socializing with guests. Joystick docking is also included.

Suggested Price: $369,265

Length: 33.5 feet

Manufacturer: Grady White

The Freedom 335, the largest of Grady White's dual console models, includes a port console cabin with a sliding bed and entertainment system along with an 83 square foot cockpit.