The 22nd edition of boatica Cape Town, held from October 25-27, 2024, at the iconic V&A Waterfront, proved to be a popular event. With 4,086 visitors from 72 local cities and international attendees from eight countries including the USA, France, Netherlands, and Zimbabwe, the three-day event demonstrated Cape Town’s growing influence in the global maritime sector.
The show’s impressive statistics tell only part of the story: 61 exhibitors, 44 vessels, and a vibrantly diverse program that included everything from luxury yacht displays to dragon boat racing. But what truly set this year’s event apart was the remarkable industry growth it highlighted – a stunning 22.3% annual growth rate over the past five years, with 2023 exports reaching R4.9 billion.
Innovation took centre stage with several noteworthy debuts. The 40 Knots’ 370 Inter-Island Sea Shuttle captured attention with its revolutionary hybrid catamaran hull and lift-assist hydrofoils, showcasing South African ingenuity in combining luxury with environmental responsibility. This innovative vessel promises a 30% reduction in fuel consumption while offering premium comfort for up to 12 passengers.
The show wasn’t just about static displays. The waters of the V&A Waterfront came alive with various activities:
- The Great Optimist Race, featuring an exciting rally format with 20 boats and 20 skippers
- Dragon Boat Racing, which saw 8 teams competing, including the inspiring Amabele Belles – Africa’s first breast cancer survivor team
- SUP Cape Town’s stand-up paddleboarding experiences, introducing visitors to Africa’s largest rental and sales provider
A particular highlight was Vision Yachts’ presence, fresh from their “Best in Show” triumph at the Annapolis Boat Show. Their journey from a small Knysna factory to an internationally recognised catamaran manufacturer employing over 100 skilled staff embodies the industry’s growth trajectory.
Cape Town’s status as the world’s largest catamaran manufacturing city was evident throughout the show. As Bruce Tedder, Chairman of SABBEX, noted, “The 2023 export figures and sustained annual growth rate demonstrate South Africa’s position as a global leader in boatbuilding.” This leadership is supported by impressive employment figures: 4,800 people directly employed in boatbuilding facilities and approximately 7,800 jobs in the broader blue economy.
Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, emphasized the show’s broader significance: “Boatica is a highlight for the industry because it is a display of the breadth and variety of innovation, talent, and skill of our boat builders. Our rich ocean economy is not just about leisure, it’s about creating jobs and driving sustainable practices.”
From luxury yachts like the Azimut Fly 60 to community-focused events like dragon boat racing, boatica Cape Town 2024 successfully balanced commercial interests with community engagement.