Opening remarks to welcome delegates and set the tone for two days of conversation, connection and collaboration across Africa's marine and boating industry, and to introduce the theme guiding this year's conference: Boating as Catalyst for Economic Growth.

An overview of the current state of South Africa's boating and marine industry, exploring the opportunities, challenges and policy priorities shaping the sector's growth — and how Cape Town is positioning itself as a leading investment destination for marine businesses across the continent.

An overview of the global recreational marine markets, examining the trends, demand shifts and emerging opportunities shaping the industry internationally, and considering what these global dynamics mean for Africa's growing position within the wider recreational marine and boating economy.

A focus on Mauritius and the recent developments within its marine industry, from yacht charters to marina development, offering a closer look at how one of the region's established boating destinations continues to grow its offering for international vessels and visiting crews.

KwaZulu-Natal is fast emerging as one of Africa's most significant marine growth stories, following the R1.9 billion investment commitment secured by eThekwini Municipality and global superyacht destination specialist Navigo to establish Durban's first superyacht precinct and refit hub — a partnership expected to create over 2,500 direct jobs by 2030. Londy Ngcobo explores what this milestone means for the region's marine economy.

The global boatbuilding industry continues to evolve as manufacturers navigate ongoing supply chain challenges, shifting trade policies and changing market demand. This panel of prominent South African boatbuilders explores how they're responding — from sourcing and logistics to new partnerships — and where the next wave of growth for the sector may come from.

This session will provide a pan-African perspective on policies, partnerships, and innovations that are enabling progress in the blue economy, offering a forward-looking vision of how banks, investors, and entrepreneurs can collaborate to position Africa as a global player in the marine and boating sector.

A thought-leadership panel exploring the evolving risk landscape affecting the marine industry, from geopolitical risk and operational challenges in remote destinations to safety management on private and charter yachts. Discussion will also touch on crew training, climate considerations and emerging technologies for vessel safety and monitoring.

An update on the progress of the African Superyacht Working Group, including an overview of the research commissioned following the last African Boating Conference. Discover how this important research will help quantify the sector's value and support future growth across Africa.

As South Africa's premier marine destination, the V&A Waterfront continues to invest in infrastructure that supports boating, superyachts and the wider marine economy. Graham Wood shares the Waterfront's strategic vision, upcoming developments, and how these investments are creating opportunities for businesses while reinforcing Cape Town's position on the global yachting map.

As Africa continues to invest in marinas, recreational boating infrastructure and marine tourism, innovation will play a critical role in ensuring these developments are commercially successful, environmentally responsible and resilient. This panel explores how emerging technologies and sustainable practices are transforming the marine sector and supporting long-term industry growth.

The global yacht industry has long been dominated by shipbuilding centres in Europe and North America. In this keynote, Erwin Bamps shares insights from leading a shipyard's rise to global reach — exploring the ingredients required to compete internationally, and what emerging marine industries, including those in Africa, can learn when developing their own boatbuilding sectors.