African Boating Conference 2025 announces new speakers
The African Boating Conference, scheduled for 21-22 October 2025 at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, has confirmed additional speakers in its growing lineup.
The two-day conference will focus on the African region’s recreational boating and superyacht industry and will bring together global marine experts, policymakers, marina developers, manufacturers, tourism stakeholders, and investors to explore Africa’s growing marine economy and unlock the region’s potential for industry expansion.
Two newly confirmed key speakers are Kevin M. Williams, vice president of North American marketing at the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Discover Boating, and Arturo Gutierrez, general manager of Freedom Boat Club – Europe, Middle East, and Africa.
Williams, who oversees marketing strategies at NMMA and Discover Boating, will discuss emerging consumer trends, market expansion opportunities, and the role of inclusivity in long-term industry sustainability.
“The marine industry is confronting many of the same challenges faced by other sectors and must adapt its marketing and business strategies to engage today’s consumers—especially younger, more diverse audiences—on their own terms,” Williams explains. “Bringing new boaters into the fold isn’t just about boosting boat sales; it’s about nurturing the entire ecosystem—from manufacturers and dealers to marinas, waterfront communities, and all the services that support the boating lifestyle.”
Williams has experience in branding and market engagement, having worked with global companies such as BMW, Coca-Cola, and Verizon Wireless. His session will address strategies for making recreational boating more accessible and appealing to a wider audience.
Gutierrez, who leads Freedom Boat Club’s expansion in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, will present a keynote titled ‘Unlocking Africa’s Boating Potential: Innovation, Accessibility, and Sustainability’. His presentation will focus on expanding marine accessibility through a membership-based model, the role of sustainable practices in responsible boating, investment in infrastructure to support industry growth, and economic opportunities within the boating sector.
“Africa represents an exciting new frontier for boating,” says Gutierrez. “With its vast coastline, rich waterways, and growing middle class, the continent holds incredible potential for marine recreation and economic development. I look forward to sharing our success in other emerging markets and discussing how boat clubs can help make boating more accessible.”
Other speakers already confirmed for the African Boating Conference include Martin Baum, managing director of Pantaenius, and Paul Darrouzet, owner of Coral Sea Marina.
According to the City of Cape Town’s latest State of the Industry report, the value of South African boat exports has risen over the past four years, reaching R4.9bn (£214m). Employment in boatbuilding has grown from 3,700 in 2021 to 4,800 in 2023. Recreational boats account for 94 per cent of all exports, with the sector experiencing an annual growth rate of 22.33 per cent over five years.
