Alderman Vos will share about the importance of the boatbuilding and marine sector in South Africa and the role of government in supporting an industry.

A big-picture view of global trends shaping the recreational boating industry, with insights into superyachts. Ed draws on IBI’s market intelligence to highlight key drivers, innovations, and opportunities—connecting global developments to lessons and relevance for emerging markets like Africa

Exploring how African manufacturers and suppliers can remain globally competitive in the face of tightening environmental regulations and shifting trade frameworks. Topics include alternative propulsion systems, compliance with new standards such as CBAM and styrene extraction limits, international trade implications under AGOA, and export strategies for African builders.

Adapt or Decline - Businesses and Industries That Win, Evolve with Consumers, Technology, and Market Shifts. Those That Don’t, Disappear. How to get younger generations and previously excluded communities excited about and involved in boating.

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.

Climate change, geopolitics, and new regulations are reshaping marine insurance. Martin Baum explores evolving risks, rising costs, emerging liabilities, and the vital role of crew training—offering strategies to protect yacht owners, charter operators, and marine businesses in a time of change.

The session will spotlight Madagascar and the Indian Ocean region as emerging destinations for superyacht exploration, luxury travel, and conservation-led tourism.

Exploring how to address critical skills shortages and build a stronger talent pipeline. Panellists will examine innovative training models, including the role of online learning and virtual reality, and discuss how to attract young people into the industry—from boatbuilding and marina operations to marine tourism and superyachts.

In this keynote, Paul Darrouzet shares how strategic marina development can drive job creation, attract tourism investment, and stimulate local supply chains. Drawing on his transformation of Coral Sea Marina into a global superyacht destination, he offers insights on how Africa can harness its coastline to build thriving marine economies and sustainable waterfront communities.

This discussion dives into the unique challenges and opportunities shaping boating growth across the African continent. The panel also explores how ageing boating demographics, cultural nuances, and affordability impact market development—and what’s needed to expand participation and unlock Africa’s domestic boating potential.

A strategic overview of the V&A Waterfront's development plans and infrastructure investments designed to strengthen Cape Town's position as a premier marine destination and support the growth of South Africa's boating industry.

An elegant evening of networking over award-winning Lourensford wines and discovering Shimansky diamonds at The Avenue, connecting delegates in style on the first night of the conference.