Theo Loock to headline African Boating Conference
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The CEO of Robertson and Caine, producer of Leopard catamarans, will reveal insights from Africa’s biggest yacht builder.
Theo Loock, CEO, Robertson and Caine
Theo Loock, CEO of Robertson and Caine, has been announced as the keynote speaker at the first African Boating Conference, which will be held at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town from October 21-22, 2025.
Boasting over 2,400 employees, Robertson and Caine is the biggest multihull builder in Africa and the southern hemisphere. Founded in 1991 by John Robertson and the late Jerry Caine, the Cape Town shipyard has produced Leopard catamarans since 1997 and last year built about two-thirds of the roughly 300 catamarans produced in South Africa.
A respected industrial engineering and global manufacturing figure, Loock was appointed CEO in 2021 and has overseen a transitional phase for the shipyard’s ownership, with co-founder John Robertson retiring in 2023 after selling the business to Vox Ventures.
Loock’s keynote speech at the African Boating Conference will provide key insights into Africa’s standing within the global boating sector, highlighting market trends, opportunities for growth, and strategies to enhance innovation and sustainability.
“I am honoured to be part of the African Boating Conference and to share insights on the dynamic marine industry in Cape Town, South Africa and our position in the world,” said Loock, the latest addition to a growing line-up of speakers for the two-day conference.
“Africa holds immense potential in the global boating sector. By focusing on innovation, quality and market-driven strategies, the country can solidify its position as a leading hub for marine manufacturing and export.”
In late March, Robertson and Caine completed its 3,000th boat, a Leopard 40 Powercat, and celebrated the milestone in late April at the International Multihull Show in La Grande Motte, where it showcased its full range of sail and power models.
“Reaching this incredible milestone is a testament to the dedication, innovation and craftsmanship that define Robertson and Caine. Since our founding, we have remained committed to designing and building world-class catamarans that inspire adventure and push the boundaries of performance, comfort and sustainability,” Loock said.
“This achievement reflects the trust and passion of our global sailing community, and we are immensely proud of the impact our vessels have had on sailors and charterers worldwide. As we look ahead, we remain focused on delivering excellence and shaping the marine industry’s future.”
Arturo Gutierrez, General Manager (EMEA), Freedom Boat Club
The African Boating Conference’s expanding speaker line-up also features Arturo Gutierrez, the France-based General Manager (Europe, Middle East and Africa) of Freedom Boat Club, the world’s largest boat club operator.
Other speakers include Paul Darrouzet, owner of Australia’s Coral Sea Marina; Germany-based Martin Baum, Managing Director of Pantaenius, a leading marine insurance provider; and Kevin M. Williams, Vice-President of North American Marketing for the US-based National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), who has worked at the likes of BMW and Coca-Cola.
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