African Boating Conference 2025 – Day 2
by African Boating Conference 24 Oct 2025 00:49 PDT
21-22 October 2025
African Boating Conference 2025 © African Boating Conference
The second day of the African Boating Conference 2025 delivered a dynamic blend of inspiration, insight, and industry action, reinforcing Africa's position as a rising force in global marine manufacturing and tourism.
Theo Loock, Managing Director of Robertson and Caine, opened the day with a powerful keynote, "Boatbuilding in the African Context," celebrating local craftsmanship and Cape Town's growing reputation as a global yacht-building hub. He highlighted the company's recent 3 000th Leopard Catamaran milestone and emphasised the company's people-first philosophy: "We build people who build award-winning catamarans."
Arturo Gutierrez, General Manager for Freedom Boat Club EMEA, followed with "Navigating New Waters," demonstrating how shared-access boating models are expanding global participation and could unlock new opportunities across Africa.
Two engaging panels then explored Tourism & Marina Development and Cruising Routes & Superyachts, tackling the continent's infrastructure gaps, investment prospects and potential for cross-border collaboration. Both underscored Africa's unique opportunity to grow marine tourism while fostering skills and inclusion.
The closing keynote by Anders Kurten, CEO Fraser Yachts, "Steering Toward Sustainability," challenged delegates to lead with purpose as Africa's marine sector expands. His call to make sustainability central to growth resonated deeply, setting the tone for long-term industry transformation.
Conference Directors Veda Pretorius and Maryanne Edwards closed proceedings with heartfelt thanks and a bold forward agenda.
Infrastructure & Investment: Africa needs connected marinas and coastal infrastructure that support both local boaters and visiting yachts.
Skills & Training: We must build pathways for youth and women into the marine sector — the future workforce depends on it.
Access & Inclusion: Shared models like boat clubs can make boating more accessible, more sustainable and more diverse.
Alignment: Regional coordination and public-private collaboration are essential — especially as we develop a Superyacht Strategy for Southern Africa.
Sustainability: Environmental responsibility must anchor every decision we make.
As Veda Pretorius noted: "This conference is just the beginning. What happens next will shape the future of boating in Africa."