The two-day event at the V&A Waterfront brought together boat-builders, maritime media, and other roleplayers from the local, African and international industry.

Speaking at the event on Tuesday 21 October, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth Alderman James Vos highlighted the importance of the sector in the City of Cape Town’s economic strategy but noted that the impact of US tariffs required creative thinking from both government and the industry.

“The city’s boat building capability and capacity is an important story – it’s no small hobby. Nationally, the building of ships and boats sector employed 3 780 full time equivalent jobs by March 2024 with Cape Town hosting about 65% of those jobs over a nine-year period. In terms of exports, in 2024, R4.3-billion worth of Cape Town-made ships, boats and floating structures were ordered by foreign clients,” he said.

Diversification as a mitigation strategy

However, Alderman Vos said the local industry faced a major challenge with the recent enactment of a 30% US tariff on South African products. In four of the last five years, the US has been the dominant export market for Cape Town’s boats, accounting for 30% of the city’s total marine vessel exports in 2024.

“We must act immediately and decisively to mitigate the effects of this tariff. We must diversify our export markets and seek out the opportunities of trade agreements such as the Africa Continental Free Trade Area,” said Vos.

“We can also further increase jobs by growing local suppliers for components such as engines, electronics, and composites. And investors, boatbuilders, tertiary institutions, and government agencies need to sit at the table regularly and align on how to address industry development bottlenecks such as skills shortages or manufacturing processes.”

A global issue

Ed Slack, Editor in Chief of International Boat Industry, gave global context to the topic: “The industry is prone to boom and bust cycles. In 2024 the election of [US President Donald] Trump brought a mini boom, but trade tariffs changed everything. The US is half the world’s market for boats – the “epicentre” of the boat market – and the tariffs have been a nightmare for EU manufacturers importing to the US.”

Slack noted that, as a consequence, EU manufacturers were increasing their focus on new markets such as the Middle East, Asia and Mexico.

Focus on future-proofing

South African industry players such as Ullman Sails agreed that the introduction of tariffs had forced them to adjust strategy.

“We are undoubtably in a disruption phase. The impact of the tariffs has put the focus on future-proofing our businesses – creating diverse markets and looking at where we produce,” said Michael England, CEO of Ullman Sails International during a panel discussion entitled “Africa’s Economic Outlook: Opportunities and Challenges”.

It was a sentiment underscored by Stephan Claasen, FNB Business Head: Western Cape, who stressed that although there was a great deal of global uncertainty, a macro view of previous economic shocks showed recovery can happen faster than expected, and often provided opportunities for businesses to reorganise.

“Trump and tariffs are disrupting the traditional way of doing things. He’s going to create new opportunities, even if they’re not where you expect … keep your powder dry so that you’re ready to pivot,” he said.

A first for leisure marine industry

The African Boat Conference is the first recreational B2B event for the leisure marine industry.

“Cape Town is the hub for manufacturing and yachting activities in South Africa, and with the proactive government it seemed the natural choice to hold the inaugural event in the city,” said Veda Pretorius, African Boating Conference Director.

“Much of the discussion around the “Blue Economy” focuses on fishing, shipping and commercial activities. While there is significant overlap, especially in South Africa, the leisure marine industry has different requirements and challenges which require engagement and collaboration – especially if it is to fulfil the potential of being a key economic driver in the country and the continent.”

Wednesday 22 October, Cape Town: For those looking for a unique sailing experience, the answer might lie in a proposed superyacht route around Southern Africa.

Superyachts and the potential they hold for the Southern African region were explored during the inaugural African Boat Conference held in Cape Town this week. According to the founder and director of Ocean Media Australia Hillary Buckman, Australia and New Zealand play host to a massive superyacht industry, which holds lessons and opportunities for other regions. Buckman was hosting a panel on “Beyond the Cape: Mapping a Superyacht Route around Southern Africa”.

The concept is clearly something the African industry is excited about, both in terms of offering superyacht owners a new experience and the benefits it could bring the region.

“A lot of us have sailed in this part of the world and know there are rare experiences to discover,” said Dave Elton, Managing Director: Del Shipping & Trading.

“I have first-hand experience of how a single yacht can have a profoundly positive impact on a local economy. The crew generally really wants to help support the areas they visit. So I’m very excited to see this concept develop, and see the positive impact on local communities.”

One of the greatest selling points of the mooted route is the cultural and environmental variety the potential stopovers offer.

“Besides offering a sailing venue out of the Med season, Africa has something money cannot buy – culture and biodiversity. There’s so much potential in this region,” said Gilbert d’Offay, Manager: Asia Pacific Superyachts, Seychelles

Raising awareness about what makes the region unique was a recurring theme.

 “I’m a big fan of leaning in to what makes you different, as well as trying to understand what the client wants. If you look at the order books to understand the type of boats being built, it’s clear that people are looking to visit places that are relatively unexplored,” said Andrew Bance, Director of Pangaea.

“We shouldn’t compete with what is, but instead highlight what can be. South Africa is a long distance away, but we’re seeing an increased number of yachts visiting. It’s a case of raising awareness within the industry.”

When asked to plot their ideal Southern African superyacht route, the panel agreed that stopovers would include Cape Town, Mozambique, Madagascar, Reunion, Seychelles and the islands off the Tanzanian coast – but stressed the need for “stepping stones” to make the journey easy for captains.

And while there may be consensus on the concept of a Southern African superyacht route, there are practical considerations that need to be taken into account. From a South African perspective, Don McKee, co-founder of YOA Super Yacht Training, highlighted space constraints and safe anchorages as two of the main issues superyachts faced.

“Cape Town is amazing but there are challenges such as space constraints. Durban and other ports up the coast also have limited marina offerings and boats end up going to a commercial berth which isn’t great. We need to expand the land-based industry to tackle that – more marina facilities are needed to encourage superyacht captains and owners to come here,” he said.

But perhaps the biggest requirement to make the route a reality is collaboration between Southern African roleplayers.

“A lot of people have done a lot of work in their individual regions, but now we need to work on harmonising regulations between various countries to allow for a smoother passage,” said Gilbert d’Offay. “It’s not just about the boat trip and where they will go, but also about their time at the various countries because boats often end up staying longer than they intended if they enjoy the destination. But all players need to work together to create a seamless experience for the owners, captains and crews of the superyachts.”

www.africanboatingconference.com

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From left to right: Dave Elton, Andrew Bance, Gilbert d’Offay, Don McKee and Hillary Buckman take part in the panel discussion, “Beyond the Cape: Mapping a Superyacht Route around Southern Africa

The V&A Waterfront has long been at the forefront of South Africa’s marine landscape, serving as a gateway for superyachts, commercial shipping, fishing fleets, and leisure boating. Beyond its historic role as a working harbour, the V&A has transformed into a dynamic ecosystem that blends world-class tourism, retail, hospitality, and marine industry services—all contributing significantly to the city’s economy.

As part of the Conference programme, Andre Blaine, Executive Manager, Marine & Industrial of the V&A Waterfront, will deliver a keynote address titled “A Strategic Overview of the V&A Waterfront’s Development Plans and Infrastructure Investments.” His session will explore how current and future projects are designed to:

• Strengthen Cape Town’s position as Africa’s premier marine destination

• Enhance infrastructure to attract and service superyachts and the leisure boating community

• Support the sustainable growth of South Africa’s boating industry within the broader blue economy

Cape Town has all the ingredients to be a world-class marine hub. Through targeted infrastructure investments and long-term planning, the V&A Waterfront is committed to creating an environment that supports industry growth, attracts international traffic, and delivers lasting economic benefits.

Andre Blaine, Executive Manager, Marine & Industrial of the V&A Waterfront

The African Boating Conference, taking place on 21–22 October 2025 in Cape Town, will bring together leading voices in marina development, superyacht services, blue economy innovation, and policy-making. The V&A Waterfront’s participation reflects a shared vision for unlocking Africa’s marine potential and positioning the continent at the forefront of global boating opportunities.

Raising the Bar for South African Boatbuilding

At the heart of the company’s showcase is the Invicta 30CC, a 30-foot luxury sport fisher built in Somerset West by Maiden Voyage Industries. Designed to meet international ABYC and ABP standards, the Invicta combines twin 350HP Suzuki outboards, Garmin navigation, and premium marine finishes. Export plans to Australia and New Zealand position it as a true statement of South African excellence.

The Nemesis 2200, a robust 22-foot offshore catamaran by Bromley Marine Design, brings reliability and comfort for charter operators and serious anglers. Meanwhile, the versatile Ozean.19 balances family-friendly cruising with performance fishing capabilities, ensuring adaptability for both local and export markets.

Driving African Business Forward

For Engelbrecht, supporting the Africa Boating Conference is both a business milestone and a personal mission.

Our boats are designed for local waters, built to international standards, and ready for export. The Africa Boating Conference is a chance to showcase what South African innovation and craftsmanship can achieve.

Ewald Engelbrecht, Founder of The Leading Edge Marine Service

Global Partnerships, African Reach

Beyond its in-house innovations, The Leading Edge Marine Service represents two leading international brands: Enigma Powerboats (UK) Ballistic Boats

These partnerships expand horizons for South African boating enthusiasts while strengthening the industry’s global footprint.

Support from forward-thinking companies like The Leading Edge Marine Service demonstrates the strength and ambition of Africa’s marine sector. Their innovation and international reach underline why the Africa Boating Conference is such a vital platform for our industry.

Veda Pretorius, African Boating Conference Director

The African Boating Conference, taking place on 21–22 October 2025, is proud to announce Stephan Claassen, Provincial Head of FNB Commercial for the Western & Eastern Cape, as a keynote speaker. His address will underscore the importance of SA and Africa’s economic trajectory and its implications for the marine and boating industries.

Claassen brings decades of experience in commercial banking, investment and cross-border growth strategies. As part of FNB’s leadership team, he has been directly involved in supporting business expansion across Africa, India, China and the UK, with expertise spanning strategic growth, risk management and business development. His keynote will give delegates a good overview of the macro-economic dynamics facing SA and Africa, what challenges remain, and investment opportunities in SA and select African countries.

Africa is one of the world’s most dynamic growth regions,” says Claassen. “To realise its potential, we need to connect financial innovation with entrepreneurial ambition and sustainable development. This is especially true for industries like boating and maritime, which can create jobs, stimulate trade, and drive tourism across the continent.

Delegates attending Claassen’s keynote at the African Boating Conference will gain a comprehensive understanding of Africa’s economic outlook and its impact on maritime development. His address will cover developments in various parts of the infrastructure sector, practical financing options for vessel manufacturing and servicing this market, while also highlighting opportunities shaping the blue economy.

His keynote will equip decision-makers, industry leaders and policymakers with both the macro-economic context and the actionable insights needed to discuss sustainable growth across the continent’s boating and maritime industries.

The African Boating Conference is Africa’s premier platform for dialogue on marina development, superyacht potential, and blue economy opportunities. The event brings together global leaders, local innovators, and forward-thinking investors committed to unlocking Africa’s maritime future.

The collaboration signals the wine industry’s growing support of the marine sector, where lifestyle, travel, and luxury experiences intersect. For Lourensford, the partnership reflects shared values of sophistication, exploration, and quality.

We are delighted to partner with the African Boating Conference, an event that brings together leaders shaping the future of Africa’s marine economy. Yachting embodies sophistication, exploration, and connection – values that resonate strongly with our brand. This partnership allows us to contribute to the lifestyle dimension of the conference, while also supporting an industry that is integral to Africa’s growth story.

Cellar Master, Hannes Nel

Delegates will have the opportunity to experience Lourensford’s acclaimed Cap Classique and curated premium wines during the event. The estate also offers an extensive portfolio including spirits, sparkling and still waters, and refreshing iced teas – positioning it as a one-stop lifestyle partner.

Lourensford’s vision is one where economic stability and environmental sustainability form a profitable partnership. The estate accepts full responsibility for managing its rich biodiversity while pursuing excellence in grape, and wine production. This focus on stewardship strongly echoes the marine sector’s own commitment to environmental sustainability, where protecting oceans and coastal ecosystems is central to long-term industry growth.

With accredited facilities, a capacity of 5 million bottles annually, and recognition as Best Wine Estate and Best Producer in South Africa (2024), Lourensford combines responsibility with award-winning quality.

By aligning with the African Boating Conference, Lourensford demonstrates how the wine industry is supporting Africa’s marine sector – just as it does globally – where natural synergies between sustainability, yachting, and fine wine create unique opportunities to celebrate lifestyle, culture, and connection.

The goal is straightforward: to provide visiting yachts and the growing local fleet with the full spectrum of high-standard support services needed, all while grounding the operations in a deep understanding of the local context.

Experience Meets Local Context

Pesto Sea Group is a recognized name in international yacht and maritime services. Now, Pesto Sea Group South Africa aims to translate that experience—built over half a century navigating the complex logistics and high expectations of the Med—directly into the South African environment.

Furthermore, the venture is established with FemoBunker as a partner, a globally active specialist in yacht fuel supply, ensuring that reliable, world-class bunkering services are available to the new branch immediately.

We see immense, untapped potential along Africa’s coastlines,” said Fabio Pesto, Chairman and CEO of Pesto Sea Group, “We didn’t come here to simply replicate a European model. We are here because we believe in this market. By partnering with individuals who have a deep, practical knowledge of the local context, we can offer the reliable, high-quality assistance superyachts require, tailored precisely to the conditions here.

Pesto Sea Group South Africa is committed to serving the needs of the industry, from complex customs and bunkering to provisioning and technical support, ensuring smoother operations and encouraging more yachts to explore the beauty of the African coast.

Commitment to the Region

Pesto Sea Group South Africa is also proud to announce its role as a Gold Sponsor of the upcoming African Boating Conference (ABC 2025). This sponsorship marks a formal and public commitment to supporting and expanding world-class marine services and infrastructure across African waters. 

ABOUT PESTO GROUP

Since 1966, Pesto Sea Group has been a trusted name in yacht agency and maritime services. Operating from its base in Genoa, Italy, and with a wide network across the Mediterranean, the Group offers full-service solutions to yacht owners and captains, including port clearances, logistics, provisioning, and technical support. With the establishment of the South African branch, Pesto signals its dedication to expanding that excellence into new frontiers.

For more information about Pesto Sea Group South Africa’s market strategy, contact:

Marta Benvenuto, Development Manager

Marta.benvenuto@pestoseagroup-sa.com

The African Boating Conference is proud to announce that ABS Maritime has committed as the presenting sponsor of the pivotal session “Charting New Horizons – Establishing a Superyacht Route around Southern Africa” at the inaugural conference taking place on 21-22 October 2025 in Cape Town.

This landmark session, moderated by Hillary Buckman, Founder and Director of Ocean Media Australia, will bring together industry specialists to collaboratively map out how to transform Africa’s dramatic coastline—from Mozambique’s pristine waters to Namibia’s rugged shores—into the world’s next premier superyacht cruising circuit.

“South Africa is steadily gaining interest as an emerging destination for superyachts and expedition vessels,” said Leroy Basson, Managing Director of ABS Maritime. “Our entry into the superyacht support market marks an exciting step as we help lay the foundation for future growth in the region. Sponsoring this event allows us to engage with industry leaders and highlight Africa’s potential as a compelling and world-class yachting destination in the making.”

Strategic Route Development with Industry Leaders

The session features an exceptional panel of route development specialists who possess the expertise to transform vision into reality:

• Dave Elton (Managing Director, Del Shipping & Trading) brings 49 years of maritime agency experience, having handled the world’s largest superyachts in South African ports and serving as a vocal advocate for expanding regional superyacht presence.
• Andrew Bance (Founder/Managing Director, Pangaea), a former yacht captain turned expedition specialist, offers expertise in remote region navigation and transformative luxury experiences.
• Gilbert d’Offay (Manager, Asia Pacific Superyachts, Seychelles) provides regional superyacht operations expertise with deep understanding of Indian Ocean cruising requirements.
• Don McKee (Co-Founder, YOA Yacht Crew) contributes a decade of superyacht experience on vessels up to 90m, along with global crew recruitment insights and industry training expertise.

Beyond Infrastructure to Implementation

Rather than theoretical discussions, this panel will provide information on destinations, natural route flows, and infrastructure capabilities while addressing critical gaps in marinas, fuel, provisioning, refit services, and regulatory frameworks that currently limit regional development.

ABS Maritime: Building Tomorrow’s Yachting Infrastructure Today

Under the leadership of Managing Director Leroy Basson and Head of Agency Brent Kruger, ABS Maritime Agency Services is expanding their expertise to meet the specific requirements of superyachts and luxury expedition vessels. Their comprehensive 360-degree solutions include ship agency services, crew and personnel logistics, vessel repairs, dry docking, procurement, bunker calls, and full financial management.

Brad Inggs, Maritime Operator: “Sponsoring this inaugural conference and keynote signals a new chapter for the superyacht and luxury expedition vessel sector in South Africa. At ABS Maritime, we’re focused on building a reliable support network that delivers a 360 solution, care, and operational efficiency for visiting yachts.”

Economic Impact and Regional Transformation

The development of a Southern African superyacht route represents significant economic opportunity for the region. Superyachts typically spend large amounts during port call, creating substantial economic impact through provisioning, crew wages, maintenance services, and luxury tourism activities.

“The superyacht industry represents one of the highest-value segments in marine tourism,” notes Veda Pretorius, Conference Director. “Establishing a viable Southern African route could generate millions in annual economic activity while positioning our region alongside established destinations like Australia and the Pacific Islands.”

Industry Momentum Building

The session comes at a time of unprecedented interest in African destinations among superyacht owners and charter companies seeking new, authentic experiences. Recent successful calls by major superyachts to Cape Town, Durban, and regional destinations have demonstrated both the appetite and potential for route development.

The African Boating Conference, held under the theme “Boating as Catalyst for Economic Growth,” provides the ideal platform for this strategic discussion, bringing together the industry expertise, government support, and investment capital necessary to transform potential into reality.

For more information on the African Boating Conference 2025, including registration details and sponsorship opportunities: www.africanboatingconference.com

A Legacy Born on the Water

The Victron Energy story began in 1975 when founder Reinout Vader, then a young physics student, repaired an inverter powering a small aquarium in his vehicle, that kept marine life alive during a long journey. That roadside solution sparked a vision: to create reliable, resilient energy systems that boaters and communities could depend on anywhere in the world.

Fifty years later, Victron has grown into a global brand synonymous with innovation and independence, trusted in sectors ranging from superyachts and expedition vessels to fishing fleets, eco-lodges, and off-grid communities. Its signature Blue Power systems have become a symbol of engineering excellence and reliability across the marine industry.

Powering the Marine Industry for Five Decades

Victron’s contribution to the marine sector is profound:

• Engineering Excellence – Flexible, modular systems that adapt to the demands of leisure craft, commercial fleets, and expedition yachts.
• Unmatched Reliability – Technology trusted by operators in the harshest marine environments, from the icy waters of the Arctic to Africa’s remote coastlines.
• Sustainable Impact – Enabling the transition toward renewable energy through solar, storage, and advanced monitoring solutions.

In Africa, Victron systems already support the blue economy — powering marinas, yacht operators, fishing cooperatives, and coastal tourism ventures, ensuring that livelihoods and leisure activities alike are supported by clean, resilient energy.

Standing with Africa’s Boating Community

Andre du Rand, Sales Manager Southern Africa said: “By supporting the African Boating Conference, we continue empowering maritime professionals with solutions built on decades of reliability and future-ready innovation.”

By sponsoring the African Boating Conference, Victron Energy reaffirms its commitment to helping shape the continent’s marine and tourism future. The conference provides a vital platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to collaborate on sustainable growth strategies for Africa’s waterways and oceans.www.africanboatingconference.com

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About Victron Energy

Founded in 1975 in the Netherlands, Victron Energy has grown into a worldwide leader in power conversion and energy storage solutions. Its product range includes inverters, chargers, solar systems, batteries, and award-winning remote monitoring platforms. From yachts and RVs to industrial and off-grid applications, Victron empowers professionals, adventurers, and communities with energy independence.

For more information, visit: www.victronenergy.com

For media inquiries, interview requests, or more information about the African Boating Conference 2025, please contact:

Maryanne Edwards

Email. Maryanne@africanboatingconference.com

Mobile. (61) 0412916036

Across the Southern and Western Indian Ocean, Africa’s coastal nations are charting a bold new course for marine tourism, infrastructure development, and blue economy innovation. From South Africa’s advanced boatbuilding and growing superyacht services to Mauritius’ mature marina ecosystem and Madagascar’s untapped eco-yachting potential, the region offers a spectrum of investment-ready opportunities. With countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Angola, and Réunion each facing unique challenges and showing distinct promise, the African marine landscape is ripe for transformation. The African Boating Conference 2025 will spotlight these opportunities and the people driving them – offering stakeholders the insights and connections needed to unlock the continent’s vast blue potential. With Africa emerging as the next marine sector growth region it is critical businesses understand the markets and position themselves to take advantage of these growth opportunities. This conference is a landmark event designed to demystify Africa and unveil the continent’s untapped potential in the superyacht and recreational marine sectors. This is not just another industry gathering; it’s your front-row seat to in-depth insights on opportunities, infrastructure needs, cruising routes, supply chains, manufacturing, tourism development, training and education, and government regulations across Africa’s diverse maritime landscape.

South Africa

Current Situation:

• Africa’s most developed boating industry with strong boatbuilding (e.g., Robertson & Caine), advanced marinas (V&A Waterfront, Durban Marina), and export-led manufacturing (90% of catamarans exported).
• Charter activity is growing; superyacht visits to Cape Town are increasing due to Red Sea instability.
• Strong regulatory oversight (SAMSA), but bureaucratic inefficiencies and high import duties persist.

Focus for Growth:

• Expansion of marina infrastructure
• Attracting superyachts through better berthing, provisioning, and streamlined regulations.
• Public-private partnerships in marina development.
• Policy reform to reduce tariffs and align jurisdiction across departments.

Angola

Current Situation:

• Marine infrastructure is industrial and oil-sector-focused, not leisure-driven.
• Recreational boating is rare and limited to elite users.
• Import duties are very high, and there is no real charter framework.

Focus for Growth:

• Reforming regulation to allow leisure marine activities.
• Attracting investment in Luanda, Lobito, and Benguela through tourism-oriented marine planning.
• Laying groundwork for future eco- or tourism-led marine development.

Kenya

Current Situation:

• Active marine tourism centred on Mombasa, Lamu, and Diani.
• Existing dhow tours, dive and sport fishing charters, with Tamarind Marina a key facility.
• Infrastructure (haul-out, servicing) is underdeveloped.
• Complex charter laws and high import duties hinder private boating and foreign investment.

Focus for Growth:

• Streamlining charter regulations and vessel clearance.
• Enhancing haul-out and service infrastructure.
• Promoting marine tourism investment with coastal communities as beneficiaries.

Madagascar

Current Situation:

• An emerging eco-yachting frontier with pristine anchorages (e.g., Nosy Be, Île Sainte-Marie).
• Very limited infrastructure (marinas, fuel, haul-out), with high duties and no formal charter law.
• Increasing visibility due to boutique tourism and international interest (e.g., AD Ports MoU for infrastructure upgrades).

Focus for Growth:

• Positioning as a premium eco-conscious superyacht destination.
• Improving yacht clearance and safety procedures.
• Attracting marina investment and building basic support infrastructure.
• Aligning tourism with conservation and local community benefit.

Réunion (France)

Current Situation:

• French territory with EU-grade marine infrastructure, clear regulations, and strong environmental standards. Small leisure boating market but important for provisioning and maintenance.

Focus for Growth:

• Serve as a regional support and transit hub, expand marine tourism offers, and contribute marine science and conservation leadership

Mauritius

Current Situation:

• The region’s most mature marine leisure sector.
• Advanced marinas (Grand Baie, La Balise), modern haul-out and service facilities.
• Clear and supportive regulatory framework; import duties waived for charter vessels.
• Strong integration between marine leisure and luxury tourism.

Focus for Growth:

• Continue refining service quality and superyacht readiness.
• Serve as a regional benchmark and training hub.
• Expand capacity while preserving high service standards.

Tanzania

Current Situation:

• Marine tourism focused on Zanzibar and Pemba (dhow tours, diving, fishing).
• Basic infrastructure; marina development in early stages.
• Fragmented regulation and high import duties hamper sector growth.

Focus for Growth:

• Centralizing regulatory control and defining clear charter rules.
• Developing marina and service facilities in Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam.
• Leveraging strong tourism demand for marine product expansion.