4872 - Scenic and Sightseeing Transportation, Water
If you're involved in the transportation or tourism industries, you're likely to encounter NAICS code 4872—an essential classification for businesses operating in the water-based sightseeing and recreational transportation sector. This code shines a spotlight on companies delivering memorable experiences through boat tours, harbor cruises, and ferry services. In this blog, we'll dive deep into NAICS 4872, its scope, typical activities, size standards, and why it matters for businesses looking to thrive in this vibrant industry.
What is NAICS Code 4872?
NAICS code 4872 stands for Scenic and Sightseeing Transportation, Water. This industry classification encompasses establishments primarily engaged in providing water-based scenic and sightseeing transportation services to tourists and the general public. These services focus on recreational and sightseeing purposes rather than regular commuting or freight transport.
Definition Highlights:
- Primarily provides recreational or sightseeing water transportation
- Services include boat tours, harbor cruises, and water ferry transportation
- Caters to tourists and local passengers seeking scenic experiences
Sector: Transportation and Warehousing
NAICS 4872 falls under the broader Transportation and Warehousing sector, which covers a vast spectrum of transportation services. Within this sector, 4872 specifically targets water-based scenic transportation businesses.
Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 4872
Businesses classified under NAICS 4872 engage in diverse activities such as:
- Sightseeing boat tours: Offering passengers guided tours of scenic waterways, historical sites, and local attractions.
- Harbor cruises: Providing leisure cruises within harbors or bays, often combined with dining or entertainment.
- Water ferry services: Transporting passengers across bodies of water on a scheduled or on-demand basis, geared primarily toward sightseeing rather than daily commuting.
Size Standards for NAICS 4872 Eligibility
To qualify as a small business under NAICS 4872 for government contracting and procurement, the Small Business Administration (SBA) defines size standards based on average annual revenue.
| NAICS Code | Industry Title | SBA Size Standard (Revenue) |
|---|---|---|
| 4872 | Scenic and Sightseeing Transportation, Water | $16.5 million (average annual receipts) |
This means businesses with average annual receipts up to $16.5 million typically qualify as small businesses under this NAICS code.
Examples of Businesses Classified Under NAICS 4872
- Tour Boat Operators: Companies offering daily or seasonal sightseeing tours around rivers, lakes, or coastal areas.
- Harbor Cruise Providers: Businesses operating leisure cruises with food and entertainment options.
- Water Taxi & Ferry Operators: Services transporting tourists across short water routes, emphasizing scenic experiences.
- Eco-Tourism Water Tours: Operators specializing in wildlife-viewing boat tours or nature-based sightseeing rides.
NAICS Code 4872 - Detailed Breakdown
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| NAICS Code | 4872 |
| Industry Title | Scenic and Sightseeing Transportation, Water |
| Sector | Transportation and Warehousing |
| Description | Establishments primarily providing water-based scenic and sightseeing transportation services, including boat tours, harbor cruises, and ferry rides for tourists and the general public. |
| Typical Business Activities | Sightseeing boat tours, harbor cruises, water ferry services |
| SBA Small Business Size Standard | $16.5 million (average annual receipts) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What types of companies are included in NAICS 4872?
NAICS 4872 includes companies primarily offering recreational or sightseeing water transportation like boat tours, cruise services, and ferry rides aimed at tourists and local sightseeing passengers.
2. Can ferry services for daily commuters fall under this NAICS code?
Typically, ferry services dedicated to daily commuter transportation are classified differently. NAICS 4872 focuses on sightseeing and recreational water transportation.
3. Why is understanding NAICS codes important for businesses?
Knowing your NAICS code is critical for government contracting eligibility, market research, industry analysis, and tax purposes. It helps align your business within the right industry classification.
4. What is the SBA size standard for NAICS 4872?
The SBA defines the small business size standard for NAICS 4872 as $16.5 million or less in average annual receipts.
5. Where can I find more information about NAICS codes?
The U.S. Census Bureau and the Small Business Administration websites provide comprehensive information and resources on NAICS codes.
Conclusion
NAICS code 4872 - Scenic and Sightseeing Transportation, Water is a vital classification for businesses providing unique water-based tourist experiences. Understanding this code helps operators navigate government programs, bidding opportunities, and industry benchmarks. Whether you're running a harbor cruise or a scenic boat tour, aligning your business with NAICS 4872 opens doors to growth and recognition in the dynamic transportation and tourism sectors.
Optimize your business presence by using the right NAICS code. Start leveraging the benefits of NAICS 4872 today!
