Madagascar and the Indian Ocean set to shine at African Boating Conference 2025
by ABC 2025 14 Aug 11:35 AEST
21-22 October 2025
Madagascar and the Indian Ocean are fast emerging as some of the most exciting new frontiers in luxury tourism and superyacht exploration. This October, the African Boating Conference will spotlight the region's extraordinary potential through a dedicated session presented by two of its most passionate ambassadors—Cyril Mahfahana of Madagascar Yacht Services and Christophe Caumes of Madascarenes.
Their session, titled "Madagascar: The Next Frontier for Superyacht Discovery," will offer a unique lens into one of the world's most biodiverse and culturally rich regions. With pristine coastlines, rare wildlife, and a blend of African and French influences, Madagascar and its surrounding islands offer an unmatched destination for high-end travellers and adventurous superyacht owners.
Cyril Mahfahana brings deep operational insight from years in luxury hospitality and superyacht logistics. A former superyacht crew member, he now leads Madagascar Yacht Services, a boutique agency specialising in vessel support, local expertise, and tailored itineraries along Madagascar's largely untouched coastline.
"We understand what owners and captains expect—reliable service, discretion, and seamless logistics—and that's exactly what we focus on delivering," adds Mahfahana. "Madagascar offers extraordinary cruising grounds, and we're here to ensure visiting superyachts experience them with confidence."
Christophe Caumes is a seasoned conservationist and expedition leader who spent over a decade managing a UNESCO-aspiring national park in the Indian Ocean. Through Madascarenes, he curates bespoke land and sea experiences that reveal the island's unique ecosystems and vibrant cultures. His upcoming luxury camp, set within a 1,400-hectare private reserve, reflects the region's shift toward immersive, nature-based tourism. "Madagascar is not just a stopover—it's an experience," says Caumes. "We're creating immersive, ethical, and unforgettable journeys for those seeking something truly different."
Their presentation will cover:
- Tourism and marine access in the Indian Ocean region
- Infrastructure and services for superyachts visiting Madagascar
- Wildlife, cultural, and inland experiences curated for luxury travellers.
- The economic potential of developing Madagascar as a high-end destination.
With growing demand for off-the-beaten-path expeditions and eco-conscious travel, the Indian Ocean islands, including Réunion, Mauritius, and the Mascarene Archipelago, are drawing increased international attention. Madagascar's warm hospitality, ecological richness, and improving service capacity are positioning it as a rising force in Africa's blue economy.
The African Boating Conference will take place 21-22 October 2025 in Cape Town, bringing together marina developers, tourism leaders, yacht captains, brokers, investors, and policymakers to shape the future of Africa's marine and coastal economies.
"Cyril and Christophe's insights and vision align perfectly with the conference's mission to open up new opportunities across the continent," says Conference Marketing & Development Director Maryanne Edwards. "We are thrilled to feature Madagascar and the Indian Ocean as a destination to watch."