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 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

“Captains are not just operators — they are gatekeepers. Their recommendations, perceptions of port safety, and regulatory clarity directly shape whether a yacht will berth in Cape Town, cruise to Zanzibar, or bypass the continent entirely.”

One such voice is Captain Wes Bartho of MY Galellio, a 50m+ expedition superyacht. Though he has sailed some of the world’s most remote waters, he believes Africa’s offer is unique — and developing.

Wes Batho commented, “The African Boating Conference is a fantastic initiative, and I’m proud to see this kind of platform taking shape on the continent. As a South African and Captain of an expedition superyacht that’s explored some of the world’s most remarkable destinations, I believe Africa holds enormous untapped potential. From remote coastlines and rich cultures to world-class wildlife and warm hospitality, there’s truly nothing like it. I’d love to see the superyacht industry develop further, both in South Africa and across the continent, as we have something genuinely unique to offer the global cruising community. I encourage anyone passionate about the future of boating and superyachting in Africa to attend, this is where the conversation begins.”

Without real engagement from those who operate within the ecosystem, Africa risks falling behind more coordinated destinations.

This is not just another industry event — it’s a platform to shape Africa’s place in a rapidly evolving global yachting landscape. Stakeholders with a vested interest in Africa’s marine economy are urged to register and be part of a collaborative, informed future.  Register now for the African Boating Conference, 21–22 October, Cape Town.

At the African Boating Conference this October, industry leaders will be calling for a pragmatic, inclusive approach to unlock the continent’s untapped potential as a world-class superyacht destination – where local insight, not just ambition, steers the course

As the global superyacht industry continues to grow, regions once considered peripheral are now capturing the interest of high-net-worth individuals seeking new and distinctive cruising experiences. Africa – with its expansive coastlines, rich biodiversity, cultural depth, and emerging marine infrastructure – has the potential to become a premier superyacht destination. But realising this vision requires more than infrastructure investments or aspirational marketing. It demands a thoughtful, inclusive, and well-informed strategy – shaped by those who know the sector best: superyacht captains, marina operators, agents, and local maritime stakeholders.

The Opportunity: Africa’s Untapped Superyacht Potential

From the island nations of the Indian Ocean to the striking coastlines of South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, and West Africa, the continent offers a wealth of unique cruising routes. Yet, despite its geographic advantages, superyacht activity remains minimal.

A comprehensive strategy could position Africa as an integrated, desirable stop on global cruising itineraries. But to be effective, this strategy must go beyond high-level ambitions and address the practical, operational, and regulatory realities of accommodating large yachts and their discerning clientele.

The African Boating Conference is creating a pivotal platform to advance this dialogue – by convening key industry stakeholders for a focused discussion on shaping Africa’s superyacht future.

The Value of Engaging Captains and Maritime Stakeholders

Superyacht captains are far more than vessel operators – they are decision-makers and trusted advisors. Their perspectives on port safety, logistical convenience, regulatory clarity, and service quality directly influence routing decisions. Whether a yacht chooses to berth in Cape Town, cruise to Zanzibar, or bypass Africa altogether often hinges on their judgment.

To craft a successful superyacht strategy, input must be gathered from the full ecosystem, including:

• Captains and crew – for insights into port access, provisioning, safety, and routing preferences
• Marina developers and operators – to identify infrastructure gaps and assess commercial viability
• Customs, immigration, and port authorities – to address policy inefficiencies and procedural hurdles
• Charter companies and agents – to gauge market readiness and demand trends
• Local businesses and tourism bodies – to align yachting with broader economic and community goals

Without the voices of these stakeholders, strategies risk being unrealistic or misaligned. Policies that appear welcoming on paper may be impractical in execution – ultimately discouraging, rather than attracting, superyacht visits.

The Cost of Exclusion: Risks of Poor Stakeholder Engagement

Failing to consult key players can have serious consequences, including:

1. Infrastructure Mismatch: Marinas may be built without sufficient draft, security, or essential services – leading to underutilised or financially unsustainable developments
2. Bureaucratic Barriers: Complex or unclear customs, immigration, and port procedures can prompt yachts to avoid entire regions due to inconsistent clearance processes or high fees
3. Missed Economic Opportunities: Superyachts can inject significant local revenue through provisioning, maintenance, excursions, and hospitality. Without local engagement, these benefits may be concentrated among a few, leaving little long-term impact
4. Reputational Damage: Captains and crew are part of a tightly networked community. One negative experience – whether related to bureaucracy, safety, or service – can influence decisions for years
5. Lagging Behind Competitors: Other emerging destinations, such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East, are actively developing captain-informed superyacht strategies. Africa risks being left behind if it doesn’t keep pace

Conclusion: Seizing the moment

Africa is on the brink of a transformation in the global yachting arena. But success hinges on collaboration. A superyacht strategy built in isolation – without the insights of those who sail, service, and support these vessels – will fall short.

Engaging stakeholders isn’t a formality; it’s a foundational requirement.

The African Boating Conference offers a vital opportunity to shape a shared vision – one that not only attracts superyachts but also leverages them as catalysts for coastal development, marine innovation, and a thriving blue economy.

With the right input and alignment, Africa can chart a bold course – welcoming the world’s most sophisticated vessels while delivering tangible benefits to its shores. 

Article by Maryanne Edwards and first appeared in IBI Magazine

Cape Town is playing host to an exciting new event later this year aimed at building on the potential of the boating sector across the African continent. Scheduled for October, the first ever African Boating Conference is a long overdue addition to the maritime calendar and focuses on a sector that is not often included in formal discussions. Maritime Review Africa spoke with organiser, Veda Pretorius, about what participants can expect and her ambitions to foster a boating ecosystem that includes the development of marinas, slipways, repairs, equipment and more.  

Maritime Review Africa (MRA): What are the benefits of developing an African boating sector and do you believe it will have a positive spin-off for more than just the tourist sector by boosting boatbuilding and promoting the boating lifestyle amongst Africans?

Veda Pretorius (VP): The recreational marine industry and its potential benefits are nuanced and multilayered. It is about manufacturing, participation AND Africa as a destination.

By increasing participation in boating and promoting the lifestyle associated with the activity, boat ownership and boat sales are stimulated. Alternative models of boat ownership and usage, such as boat clubs and fractional ownership, are becoming more popular, and they also contribute to an increase in boat sales.

There is a whole industry that supports the boating lifestyle, from marinas and slipways to boat maintenance and repairs, restaurants and hospitality, and water toys and equipment. All of these elements benefit the economy and help sustain communities.

South Africa is a boatbuilding powerhouse, and an increase in boat sales, especially for the export market, also has a multiplier effect. For one direct job in the boatbuilding sector, it supports nine indirect jobs, according to SABBEX.

In addition, the global superyacht industry is actively looking for new destinations. With the rise of younger and more adventurous boat owners, there is a clear opportunity for key players in our region to collaborate and entice more superyachts to the area. Africa has unique experiences, diverse cultures and breathtaking natural beauty.

The challenges include a lack of information, inadequate regional coordination, and fragmented legislative frameworks, all of which can be overcome.

MRA:  How have similar conferences helped boost the boating sector in other regions?

VP: These conferences have two primary purposes: to inform and educate attendees, and to provide an opportunity for industry networking. When you bring people together to network and you create the right environment, collaborating on industry challenges naturally follows.

The challenges facing our industry, particularly from a manufacturing perspective, necessitate a collective effort to address them. The same is true of the opportunities in the superyacht sector, which require a strong regional network.

MRA:  Why is this an opportune time for Africa to consider the growth potential associated with the boating sector?  

VP: The luxury travel market in Africa has matured, and there is now a deeper understanding of service and the needs of UHNWI (ultra-high-net-worth-individual). This bodes well for the region’s superyacht destination ambitions.

The safety concerns in the Gulf of Aden have led to an increase in superyacht traffic around the Cape. By establishing a regional framework, as they have in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific region, we can now put Africa on the map.

In terms of the domestic boating markets, there is an increase in disposable wealth in some of the African economies. Boating is a fantastic leisure activity, offering an opportunity to spend time outdoors with friends and family. 

There has also been a significant surge in outdoor recreation and marine activities following the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, several marina and small harbour development plans are in the pipeline, which could present fantastic opportunities for investment and the creation of hubs for leisure boating.

MRA: Who can delegates expect to hear from at the conference and what important messages are they likely to hear?

VP: Well, this is a tricky question. We have spent considerable time finding world-class speakers in each of the sub-sectors or topics that we want to highlight so it is difficult to highlight one or two.

For the first time in decades, the South African government is focusing on marina infrastructure and small harbours, making it timely to have someone like Paul Darrouzet (a long time marina director) as a speaker. Marinas serve as economic catalysts, and he brings proven experience in developing world-class marina facilities.

Theo Loock from Robertson and Caine is a humble and insightful leader, and I am very excited about his presentation. He will address the practical realities of operating in an African business environment. I know his talk will resonate with many as the industry faces increased pressure from trade tariffs, skills shortages, and supply chain challenges.

It is crucial to understand that this conference represents a historic first for Africa. While other regions regularly bring together top marine industry leaders, we’ve never had this calibre of local and international experts gathered in one room on our continent.

This assembly of recreational marine sector leaders in Cape Town is unprecedented. The opportunity for African delegates to engage directly with industry giants, such as Anders Kurten from Fraser Yachts or Martin Baum from Pantaenius Insurance – having face-to-face conversations, asking questions, and building relationships – simply hasn’t existed in Africa before.

What other markets might take for granted, we’re creating for the first time.

MRA:  How will you position the conference to provide tangible outcomes for the boating sector that can be measured?

VP: We are positioning this conference as a catalyst for action, not just a forum for discussion.  We are working closely with local industry associations and government stakeholders to ensure that the conference has clearly defined goals and outcomes.

These include the establishment of a regional Superyacht Working Group to become the first coordinated regional framework for developing Africa as a superyacht destination. We will also provide a platform to create partnerships in the Skills Development and Training Sector – facilitating concrete partnerships between training institutions and companies to address the critical skills shortage.

MRA: What take-aways would you like to leave potential delegates with that you hope will encourage them to sign up for the inaugural event?

 VP: The overriding theme of the conference is Boating as a Catalyst for Economic Growth. While we are fortunate to have numerous examples of best practices from more mature boating markets it is vital to remember that this conference is In Africa, For Africa, About Africa.

We need to consider how we can adapt global solutions to the unique context of our great continent (and Indian Ocean Islands). And we need to build on the success of our local boatbuilding industry, which has been growing at an astounding rate over the last four years.

As the popular African proverb goes: If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.

Building a sustainable and inclusive recreational marine industry in Africa will be both challenging and exciting. Join us. Let’s go far, together!

CREDIT: Maritime Review Africa