A HISTORIC BEGINNING
ABC 2025 Highlights
October 21-22, 2025 | V&A Waterfront
Cape Town
Africa’s first B2B recreational boating conference exceeded every expectation. Over 200 delegates from across Africa and the international marine industry gathered for two transformative days that set the foundation for regional cooperation and growth.
THE NUMBERS THAT MATTERED
• 200+ delegates from South Africa, Africa, and the global marine industry
• 20+ speakers bringing international expertise and local insight
• 2 full days of keynote sessions, panels, and workshops
• 4 afternoon programs including boatyard visits, superyacht marina tours, and Cape Town experiences
• Multiple networking events fostering connections across the continent
THE NUMBERS THAT MATTERED
• 200+ delegates from South Africa, Africa, and the global marine industry
• 20+ speakers bringing international expertise and local insight
• 2 full days of keynote sessions, panels, and workshops
• 4 afternoon programs including boatyard visits, superyacht marina tours, and Cape Town experiences
• Multiple networking events fostering connections across the continent
THE NETWORKING THAT DELIVERED
Beyond the sessions, ABC 2025 created the space for genuine connection:
• Welcome reception with award winning local wines
• Networking lunches both days featuring local cuisine
• VIP dinner with international speakers and industry leaders
• Evening cocktail event at Royal Cape Yacht Club
• Informal connections throughout breaks and site visits
THE NETWORKING THAT DELIVERED
Beyond the sessions, ABC 2025 created the space for genuine connection:
• Welcome reception with award winning local wines
• Networking lunches both days featuring local cuisine
• VIP dinner with international speakers and industry leaders
• Evening cocktail event at Royal Cape Yacht Club
• Informal connections throughout breaks and site visits
DISTINGUISHED SPEAKERS
Our inaugural conference featured industry leaders who brought both global perspective and African context.
Key Topics Explored
MARINA DEVELOPMENT & MARINE TOURISM
How world-class marinas can drive regional economic growth while balancing luxury amenities with environmental stewardship.
SUSTAINABLE MANUFACTURING
Navigating looming regulations including CBAM, styrene restrictions, and trade tariffs while maintaining Africa’s competitive manufacturing edge.
REGIONAL SUPERYACHT STRATEGY
Developing cruising itineraries, infrastructure requirements, and collaboration frameworks for positioning Africa as a superyacht destination.
GROWING THE BOATING MARKET
Innovative approaches like boat clubs, next-generation boater trends, and making boating accessible to broader audiences.
SKILLS AND TALENT DEVELOPMENT
Attracting and training the next generation across boatbuilding, superyacht crew, and marine tourism sectors.
ECONOMIC IMPACT
Helping government and public sector understand the economic value of the recreational marine industry.
“It was a fantastic event that struck the perfect balance between networking and learning from excellent speakers and panels.”
2025 Delegate
HOSTED BY
HOST VENUE
GOLD SPONSOR
SILVER SPONSOR
OUR MEDIA PARTNERS
COCKTAIL EVENT SPONSORS
SESSION SPONSORS
HOSPITALITY SPONSORS
SUPPORTING PARTNERS
Registration Opens March 2026
Early bird rates and full program details will be announced soon.
Register your interest to be first to know when tickets go on sale.
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