Boatica Cape Town 2024 | Growth In The Boating Industry

Boatica Cape Town 2024 has proven that the incredible growth and innovation of South Africa’s marine industry is on the rise. With over 4,000 visitors, including attendees from South Africa, the USA, France, Angola, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, Zimbabwe, and Ghana, boatica Cape Town 2024 was truly an international celebration of the blue economy.

Riding the wave

This year’s show featured 61 exhibitors and 44 vessels. Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, Alderman Vow inaugurated the event, emphasising the marine manufacturing industry’s impressive growth, which has reached an annual rate of 22%, driving the local economy to new heights.

“We’re riding the wave of growth!” Vos exclaimed as he unveiled impressive statistics, announcing that the industry is now valued at R4.9 billion, up from R3.2 billion. “This dynamic rise creates real opportunities for our community in terms of jobs and services,” he stated.

Cape Town: the world’s leading catamaran building city

A highlight of Vos’s speech was the announcement that Cape Town has become the world’s leading catamaran boat-building city, exporting one catamaran for every workday of the year. “This achievement showcases our city’s exceptional craftsmanship and innovation,” he declared, encouraging attendees to celebrate their collective success. South Africa is the second-largest builder of leisure sailing catamarans in the world behind France and holds the title of the world’s leading manufacturer of large power catamarans. Cape Town is recognised as the largest catamaran manufacturing city globally, further cementing the city’s position as a hub for high-quality marine craftsmanship.

Vos also unveiled the ‘Job Wall,’ an exciting new platform designed to connect job seekers with opportunities in the marine sector. “This will open up diverse career paths and ensure our community continues to benefit from this growth,” Vos noted. 

SABBEX – spearheading growth in our industry

The South African boatbuilding industry has seen tremendous growth, with 94% of the vessels exported recreational boats. This relates to the direct employment of 4,800 people. The continued success underscores the global demand for South African craftsmanship and innovation in marine technology.

Bruce Tedder, Chairman of The South African Boat Builders Export Council (SABBEX) commented:  “The 2023 export figures and sustained annual growth rate demonstrate South Africa’s position as a global leader in boatbuilding. The sector’s commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability continues to drive international demand for our vessels.”

In addition to boatbuilding, the broader blue economy, which includes ocean sports, adds approximately R2 billion to the economy annually. Ocean sports alone employs around 3,000 people, bringing the total employment in the blue economy, including boatbuilding, to close on 8,000 people.

The country is also frequently in the running for top industry accolades, with regular nominations and wins of international boat and catamaran awards.

Proudly South African classy builds 

Proving that South African craftsmanship is world class and highly valued, Southern Wind has been building high-performance luxury sailing yachts in Cape Town since 1991. A global company with European shareholders, the shipyard employs 280 people with a commercial and after-sale office in Italy. The full construction of Southern Wind yachts is carried out in-house, with the factory spanning a surface area of 19,800 m2, 16,000 m2 of which is under cover.  With a production rate of two yachts per year, Southern Wind boasts a leading position in the market of performance carbon sailing yachts. More than 60 yachts have been delivered – 36 longer than 27 meters.

Southern Wind has earned numerous prestigious international accolades and awards, and is recognised as one of the leaders in the super-yacht design industry.

At the heart of every Southern Wind yacht lies a passion for craftsmanship combined with a tireless pursuit of technical innovation. Investments in research, product development, and the latest construction techniques are of paramount importance and have been the cornerstone of SW’s success for the past 30 years. As a result, the shipyard is entirely self-sufficient in all phases of yacht manufacturing, from lamination and steelwork to carpentry and interiors assembly. Over the past 19 years, the shipyard has gained exceptional experience in the lamination of infused carbon composite sandwich (carbon fibre, epoxy resin and Corecell) in the structural components of its yachts. This composite material results in the optimised fibre/resin ratio, reducing the weight of the yacht and improving overall quality and strength.

New launches on the dock at boatica

Vision Yachts – international award success

Vision Yachts is based in Knysna, South Africa and produce the ultimate yachts for blue-water cruising include the 444 Model, the 444 ES Model, and the newly launched 484 Model. The 444 was recently awarded ‘Boat of the Year’ in its class by Cruising World, while the 444 ES Model has been nominated for the 2025 ‘Boat of the Year’ award.

In addition to the launch of the new model, Vision Yachts received the “Best in Show” award from Sail America at the Annapolis Boat Show held recently in the USA. The growth of Vision Yachts over the past six years has been remarkable. Starting from a small factory in Knysna, James Turner was confident in their winning design, but faced numerous challenges along the way. The COVID pandemic, production setup, and market entry hurdles tested the team’s resilience. Key to their success has been building a dedicated team that embraces the Vision philosophy: creating cruising catamarans for sailing couples that seamlessly blend user-friendly features with elegant design and solid performance. With the support of Tommy Smith and Amy Michaud from Sailaway Catamarans in the US, orders began to flow, proving that meticulous attention to detail pays off.

Vision Yachts has now expanded its factory to include a world-class production line, employing over 100 skilled locals who bring these boats to life.

The company’s solid growth has enabled it to introduce its highly anticipated 484 model. The new 484 model retains the unique features of the Vision 444 and the Vision 444 ES, with increased length and width for more spacious proportions and innovative enhancements.  Its spacious interior layout and elegant aesthetics cater to both seasoned sailors and newcomers to yachting. The emphasis on ease of handling reflects a growing industry trend toward user-friendly blue-water cruising catamarans that do not compromise on luxury and performance.

Leopard Catamarans

Built by Cape Town-based Robertson and Caine, the newly launched Leopard 46 is another feather in the cap of SA’s boat-building industry.

Features include a sleek, contemporary exterior design with wraparound coachroof windows offering breathtaking panoramic views and flooding the interior with natural light. The innovative companionway sliding door fully retracts behind the helm station, connects the saloon and aft cockpit, offering versatile spaces perfect for relaxation and entertainment.

“The design of the Leopard 46 is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence,” said Michael Robertson, Chief Designer at Leopard Catamarans. “We’ve carefully considered every detail to ensure that this vessel not only looks stunning but also provides a truly exceptional sailing experience.”

The Leopard 46 is also available through charter yacht management programs with The Moorings and Sunsail.

370 Inter-Island Sea Shuttle

The team at 40 Knots (South Africa) is proud to announce the debut of the 370 Inter-Island Sea Shuttle, a high-end vessel designed for the luxury inter-island water transfer market. The vessel was launched at boatica Cape Town.

The 370 Shuttle is a semi-custom catamaran that delivers high-speed yet comfortable water transport, featuring a hybrid catamaran hull equipped with lift-assist hydrofoils and lightweight construction. This design significantly reduces fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, and overall operating costs. The vessel is driven by diesel engines with conventional prop-shaft systems, but clients can choose from various propulsion options including surface drives, jet drives, or outboard motors, depending on their needs.

The interior offers an open-plan, air-conditioned space designed for maximum comfort and luxury. Seating for up to 12 passengers is arranged in L-shaped configurations, complemented by USB charging ports, dimmable lighting, air-conditioning and strategically positioned handrails.

Built to comply with CE-ISO standards for small commercial craft and the IMO Small Commercial Vessel Rules for the Caribbean, the vessel’s design ensures safety and comfort. Its advanced hydrofoil system allows the vessel to partially lift out of the water, reducing fuel consumption by 30% and providing a smooth ride even in challenging sea conditions. This not only enhances fuel efficiency but also minimises passenger and crew fatigue.

The initial concept was developed during the Covid-19 lockdown by friends and fellow engineers Dick Churley and Baren Smit, who brought together their extensive expertise in mechanical, electrical, and industrial engineering. The vessel was commissioned by a former client in the Caribbean, who needed a fast and comfortable small ferry for transporting yacht charter guests between islands. This partnership resulted in a vessel that meets the high expectations of comfort, performance, and luxury.

Clark Marine

Clark Marine launched the OZEAN.19, a premier 6 meter centre-console vessel meticulously crafted for the unique demands of African waters. The OZEAN.19 is powered by twin Yamaha 70HP outboard motors, delivering impressive speeds of up to 30 knots with a 140L onboard fuel capacity.

Clark Marine’s years of experience in custom commercial aluminium work vessels have established them as a leader in vessel construction, and now they are applying that expertise to recreational boating.

Known for their distinguished reputation within the local maritime industry, Clark Marine has specialised in aluminium fabrication and commercial vessel construction. Now, with the launch of Ozean Boats, Clark Marine is proud to expand into the recreational boating sector. The OZEAN.19 represents the flagship model of this new fibreglass range, showcasing cutting edge design and quality craftsmanship that will appeal to both local and international markets.

UX Marine

Three brand-new models were released at boatica Cape Town.

UX21: The UX21 is all about classic Mediterranean style and gorgeous handcrafted woodwork but will cruise comfortably at 28 knots too.

UX156:  The versatile 15.6-foot watercraft is suited to fishing trips and family cruising. There’s comfortable space for five passengers and it can take twin 40hp outboards.

UX explorer: Compact at 17 feet, this vessel provides under-deck dive tank storage, a reworked seating layout with space for five people and is designed for comfort and adventure. Twin Mercury 60hp engines power the craft and the removable T-top allows easy garage storage.

 UX Marine is the only brand in either hemisphere to offer free gel coat colour options at no additional cost.

For the love of sailing

To support the narrative that the ocean gives back, two worthy organisations showcased how their love of sailing has given so much more than any classroom every could.

The Great Optimist Challenge

For the past six years, The Little Optimist Trust has held an annual sailing competition to raise funds for its various development projects.  These include regular sailing therapy days and renovation projects at under-resourced children’s homes, schools and hospitals.

The charity is now extending the opportunity to raise money with the launch of The Great Optimist Challenge. The charity is inviting anyone, living anywhere, to take on a charity challenge of their choice between 15 October and 31 December 2024.  Not only can participants raise money for The Little Optimist Trust, but they can include any other charity of their choice – with prizes worth R50 000 on offer.

As part of the challenge, the annual Great Optimist Race was held at boatica. All child and adult visitors to the event could participate for free in boat-racing (no sailing experience was necessary) or SUP time trials at The Little Optimist stand. A small donation and a 10/15 min time trial challenge ensured entry for lucky draw prizes.

“We invited people to come to boatica and take on a challenge by sitting in a boat, sailing, learning to sail, paddling a SUP, or just doing something funny and making a donation. Everyone was entered into the Challenge, and they now stand a chance to win one of many prizes in our lucky draw worth R50 000,” says The Little Optimist Founder Greg Bertish.

For those who were unable to attend boatica, there are still endless ways to join the campaign.

People from across the country have already signed up for The Great Optimist Challenge, including 10 students from Pretoria University, an international team that will be riding the Wine to Whales bike ride, an in-store challenge at leading retailer Italtile, as well as children and families hosting mini challenges and Optimist pool parties.

“We challenge you! Do any challenge, anytime, anywhere, any how. Help us do great things for charity. Sign up on our site now,” adds Bertish.

Royal Cape Sailing Academy

RCYC’s Sailing Academy was showcased at boatica Cape Town as a premier institution for developing young sailing talent.

The Sailing Academy is gaining recognition both locally and internationally. Their participation in the Cape2Rio Race has been captured in a multi-award winning full length documentary titled Ukuwela, The Crossing, now streaming on Showmax. It’s really worth a watch.

The Academy runs sailing classes every Saturday and Sunday, with only a short pause in December. At the heart of the Academy’s fleet are six L26 boats. These vessels play a crucial role in the training and development of the Academy’s youth.

Senior Instructor Sibusiso Sizatu plays an instrumental role in this journey, equipping students with practical sailing skills, theoretical knowledge, boat maintenance, safety protocols, and navigation techniques. His mentorship prepares them not only for the seas but for life beyond the Academy.

The RCYC Sailing Academy serves as a powerful launching pad for students exposing them to a many opportunities within the marine industry. Beyond sailing, the Academy’s mission is to see its students secure meaningful employment and thrive in their professional roles.

The Academy is more than a place to learn the art of sailing, it’s a transformative space. Many of the youth are from disadvantaged backgrounds but they come together to master sailing and to gain invaluable life skills. Sailing is a sport that demands teamwork, trust, and mutual reliance, and these qualities are instilled in students, who carry them into their daily lives.