African Boating Conference coming round again

by ABC Media 10 Feb 20:49 PST 20–21 October 2026

Following the resounding success of its sold-out inaugural edition, the African Boating Conference will return to Cape Town on 20-21 October 2026, reaffirming its position as the only dedicated platform focused exclusively on the future of Africa's boating, marina, and blue economy industries.

Held once again in Cape Town — a city offering the rare combination of a globally connected marine business hub set against one of the world's most compelling travel destinations — the 2026 conference will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, investors, developers, manufacturers, and service providers from across Southern Africa and key international markets. The event provides a high-level forum for insight, collaboration, and informed decision-making at a time of increasing geopolitical complexity, global economic uncertainty, and shifting market dynamics.

A Proven Platform with Global Credibility

The 2025 African Boating Conference exceeded expectations, welcoming a capacity audience and an exceptional lineup of international and regional speakers. Beyond strong attendance and commercial engagement, the conference delivered tangible outcomes — most notably the establishment of a Superyacht Working Group aimed at addressing regulatory, operational, and infrastructural barriers to growth.

An update on the progress of this working group, including collaboration between industry and government stakeholders, is planned as a key feature of the 2026 programme, reinforcing the conference's role as a catalyst for action rather than just discussion.

The 2026 programme will once again deliver global-standard content with strong African relevance and measurable business value. Highlights will include:

• Insightful, future-focused discussions addressing real challenges and opportunities in African boating and marina development
• High-quality international speakers sharing global best practice with direct applicability to African markets
• Actionable networking that supports new partnerships, projects, and market entry
• Strong sponsor and exhibitor exposure through curated trade displays and targeted engagement
• Uniquely located networking events that reinforce Cape Town's status as Africa's marine capital

"The response from last year's delegates, speakers, and sponsors confirmed what we believed from the outset — Africa needs its own platform to discuss its boating industry on its own terms, at a global standard," said conference organiser Veda Pretorius. "Just as importantly, the conference has proven to be a valuable forum for government stakeholders to engage directly with industry, better understand its realities, and work collaboratively towards solutions."

The Only Forum Dedicated to Africa's Boating Industry

As sectors continue to evolve, the African Boating Conference remains the only event dedicated to examining what is actually happening in Africa's boating industry — from marina development and superyacht readiness to policy, skills development, manufacturing, and investment. In an era marked by geopolitical shifts, economic volatility, and changing global trade patterns, platforms such as the African Boating Conference are increasingly critical. They provide the clarity, context, and connections required for smarter market decisions and the development of new regional and international opportunities. With strong regional attendance from Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean, alongside growing international interest, the conference continues to position Africa as an emerging, investable, and globally relevant boating destination.

Save the Date. Cape Town, South Africa | 20-21 October 2026

Delegate registration, sponsorship opportunities, and speaker announcements will be released in the coming months.

www.africanboatingconference.com