Last week, I had the privilege of visiting Jo Fensham Yacht Upholstery’s factory in Montague Gardens, Cape Town, where I met with owner and CEO, Tariq Fensham. As Cape Town’s leading soft furnishings manufacturer, they serve an impressive client roster, including prestigious boat builders such as Robertson and Caine, Southern Wind Shipyard, Two Oceans Marine, and Kinetic Catamarans.
Upon entering the factory, one is immediately struck by its calm and professional atmosphere. The workspace is thoughtfully organised, with dedicated areas for production components separate from bespoke yacht projects. It is clear that Tariq recognises the vital importance of her team. She has dedicated the past year to identifying new talent, upskilling existing staff, and implementing new efficiencies with the help of a new production manager. Coming from the pet food industry, he could give independent and objective input to the existing processes and systems.

The company’s approach to yacht furnishings is comprehensive. The team works closely with boatbuilders and yacht owners to provide turnkey interior and exterior soft furnishings solutions. When complete renderings and 3D CAD files aren’t available, they conduct detailed photographic scans of vessels. These scans are transformed into precise 3D CAD files, ensuring cushions are manufactured to exact measurements. This attention to detail and precise scanning specifications has resulted in minimal returns and high client satisfaction. For clients in the Indian Ocean Islands of Mauritius and Seychelles, the company sends technicians to conduct photographic scans on-site. When vessels later dock in Cape Town, custom-made cushions and soft furnishings can be fitted within hours, offering clients bespoke, handcrafted products of international quality at competitive rates.
While the company has built its reputation on providing exceptional service and world-class craftsmanship to local boat builders, its vision extends beyond South African shores. Their ambitious plans include manufacturing for European production yards and expanding into the superyacht sector. However, these international aspirations come with unique challenges. Shipping costs can double the local price of products, necessitating careful cost analysis. To address delivery timelines, their long-term strategy includes establishing a European warehouse to ensure timely delivery while maintaining their renowned quality standards.
Looking ahead, Jo Fensham Yacht Upholstery plans to open a showroom in the V&A Waterfront, bringing them closer to their client base. This facility will showcase its full range of luxury yacht linens and feature a dedicated space where owners can explore material and other product options. The showroom will also include a luxury hospitality section, offering everything from cutlery and crockery to linens and soft furnishings. The company proudly represents top South African luxury interior brands like Mungo and Falucca Linen.
The company’s team of 41 staff members, working under Tariq Fensham and her husband and life partner, exemplifies the exceptional quality of South African craftsmanship. Their commitment to precision and quality not only rivals international standards but positions South African craftsmanship at the forefront of the global yacht furnishing industry.
