Cape Town lines up revamped boat show following conference
Credit: Cape Town Boat Show
Following the African Boating Conference, set for 21-22 October 2025, the Cape Town Boat Show will run from 24-26 October 2025 at the V&A Waterfront, creating a week of marine events.
Creating a focused week of industry activity for Africa’s marina sector, the strategic scheduling of the two events has, according to organisers, been designed to provide increased value for attendees. The events will enable them to join in both high-level discussions and a commercial showcase of products and services in one trip.
Earlier this year, further speakers for the two-day African Boating Conference were confirmed, including 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.
Maryanne Edwards, conference development director, emphasises: “Bringing a high-calibre conference alongside a leading boat show creates an unparalleled opportunity for delegates. It maximises value by allowing access to both in one trip—minimising travel costs, multiplying networking potential, and delivering direct exposure to products, services, and decision-makers on the ground. It’s a highly efficient and impactful investment of time and resources.”
The Cape Town Boat Show is being restructured under the leadership of SABBEX (South African Boat Builders Export Council) and BlueCape, with an industry-first model focused on long-term viability. The event will operate on a breakeven, cost-only basis and will be “managed by the industry, for the industry.”
Attendance at the boat show has declined over recent years, but with the renewed focus from SABBEX and BlueCape, alongside a growing interest in the inaugural African Boating Conference, more support is expected.
Both events will highlight marine manufacturing, local boatbuilding, and the superyacht services sector.
