The V&A Waterfront hosts the inaugural African Boating Conference

There is an undeniable energy building in Africa’s marine sector, and it reaches a defining moment with the first African Boating Conference in Cape Town from October 21-22. Originally conceived as a dual showcase along with the Cape Town International Boat Show, the spotlight now falls squarely on the two-day conference.

I’ve had the privilege of working with many stakeholders across the continent, and we’re now seeing a shared vision. From marina developers and OEMs to superyacht captains and tourism strategists, the narrative is shifting. Africa is no longer on the fringe of global boating conversations – it’s taking its place at the centre.

The African Boating Conference presents a dedicated forum to address Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities, allowing the marine sector to place undivided attention on critical issues: infrastructure gaps, barriers to intra-African trade, investment frameworks, and the blue economy’s potential to drive inclusive growth.

SHOWCASING AFRICAN CAPABILITY

A highlight of this year’s conference is the keynote by Theo Loock, CEO of Robertson & Caine, the manufacturer of Leopard catamarans. Few individuals embody the resilience and ingenuity of the South African marine sector as strongly as Theo.

Theo Loock, CEO, Robertson and Caine

Under his leadership, Leopard has grown into an iconic and a globally respected brand, particularly in Asia, Europe and the US. With production rooted in Cape Town and a legacy of collaboration with The Moorings and Sunsail, Leopard has built more than 3,000 vessels, placing South Africa firmly on the global export map.

But what is especially important about Leopard is the way it represents confidence in African capabilities. As Theo will share, the brand’s success is a result of long-term investment in workforce skills, lean manufacturing and a global mindset, all elements that will be critical if Africa is to scale its marine economy across regions.

ADDRESSING REALITIES, UNLOCKING OPPORTUNITIES

The conference will not shy away from the real challenges Africa faces. Among the most pressing is the issue of trade and import duties that continue to hinder the free movement of vessels, components and marine services between countries on the continent. These tariffs stifle growth, discourage investment and limit Africa’s ability to develop an integrated, competitive marine industry.

Other challenges include limited infrastructure in many coastal and inland regions, and the need for policy frameworks that enable, rather than obstruct, marine tourism and investment. But these hurdles also point to opportunity. With rising costs in established markets, there is increasing interest in relocating manufacturing and refit services to Africa.

A Leopard 42 in build at Robertson and Caine, Africa’s biggest yacht builder

Panels will highlight how African shipyards are already proving competitive on a global scale, and how the continent’s natural assets – its coastlines, waterways and workforce – can position Africa as both a source and a destination in the global marine ecosystem.

GROWING THE SUPERYACHT AND CHARTER MARKET

Another area of opportunity is the luxury and expedition yacht market, where we’re seeing growing interest in routes along the east coast of Africa, Indian Ocean crossings, and stops in South Africa on the way to the Mediterranean or Caribbean.

Wes Bartho, the South African captain of the 56m Galileo, believes African destinations – if properly supported by marinas, agents, and government policy – can tap into this high-value segment.

“As a South African and captain of an expedition superyacht that has explored some of the world’s most remarkable destinations, I believe Africa holds enormous untapped potential,” Bartho says.

“From remote coastlines and rich cultures to world-class wildlife and warm hospitality, there’s truly nothing like it. I’d love to see the superyacht industry develop further, as we have something genuinely unique to offer the global cruising community.”

LOOKING FORWARD

If there’s a message I’d like to share through this Column, it’s this: Africa’s boating future is not something to watch – it’s something to join. Whether you’re an OEM looking for production capacity, a charter operator scouting new destinations, or a marina group exploring expansion, Africa is open, evolving and full of promise.

The African Boating Conference now stands as the defining platform – a new era of visibility, collaboration and confidence in Africa’s marine sector.

africanboatingconference.com

MARYANNE EDWARDS

Currently Director of Marketing and Development for the African Boating Conference, and a Consultant for Global Marine Business Advisors (GMBA), Edwards has had a long leadership career within the corporate, commercial and sporting/volunteer sectors. She spent almost 12 years (2006-18) as CEO of Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) and Superyacht Australia, while earlier roles included General Manager (Marketing-Membership) of the Victoria Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Chief Executive of Wellington Racing Club. maryanne@africanboatingconference.com