The African Boating Conference, set to take place on October 21–22, 2025, at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, has announced new additions to its speaker roster as it prepares to spotlight the continent’s fast-developing recreational boating and superyacht sector.
According to an article by Marine Industry News, the conference aims to bring together international marine experts, policymakers, marina developers, manufacturers, tourism leaders, and investors to accelerate Africa’s marine economy.
Kevin M. Williams, vice president of North American marketing for the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Discover Boating, will speak on consumer trends, market expansion, and inclusivity as key to long-term industry sustainability.
“The marine industry is confronting many of the same challenges faced by other sectors and must adapt its marketing and business strategies to engage today’s consumers—especially younger, more diverse audiences—on their own terms,” Williams said.
He emphasized that expanding the recreational boating base supports not just boat sales but the entire industry ecosystem.
Williams brings a background in global brand development, having worked with companies such as BMW, Coca-Cola, and Verizon Wireless.
His session will explore strategies to make boating more accessible and resonate with the next generation of consumers.
Also joining the lineup is Arturo Gutierrez, general manager for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at Freedom Boat Club.
In a keynote titled Unlocking Africa’s Boating Potential: Innovation, Accessibility, and Sustainability, Gutierrez will discuss the impact of membership-based boating, investment in infrastructure, and responsible practices.
“Africa represents an exciting new frontier for boating,” he said. “With its vast coastline, rich waterways, and growing middle class, the continent holds incredible potential for marine recreation and economic development.”
Other confirmed speakers include Martin Baum, managing director of Pantaenius, and Paul Darrouzet, owner of Coral Sea Marina.
The conference comes amid notable growth in South Africa’s marine sector. According to the City of Cape Town’s latest State of the Industry report, the value of the country’s boat exports reached R4.9 billion (£214 million), with employment in boatbuilding rising from 3,700 in 2021 to 4,800 in 2023.
Recreational boats account for 94% of all exports, with a five-year annual growth rate of 22.33%.
The African Boating Conference is shaping up to be a key event for the leisure marine industry, offering a platform to explore the continent’s vast untapped potential and to foster partnerships that support sustainable growth in outdoor recreation and marine tourism across Africa.
