Strengthening the Sails: African Boating Conference 2026 Gains Momentum with Key Sponsors and Global Speakers
The African marine industry is preparing for a landmark event as the African Boating Conference (ABC) 2026 gears up for its second edition. Following the resounding success of its inaugural gathering in 2025, the conference is set to return to Cape Town, South Africa, on October 20–21, 2026.
Recent updates highlight a surge in industry confidence, marked by the early recommitment of major sponsors and the addition of high-profile international speakers who underscore Africa’s growing influence in the global yachting sector.
A Vote of Confidence from Industry Leaders
The strength of the 2026 conference is already being felt through the early backing of three cornerstone sponsors: Seascape Marine Services, Ullman Sails, and MDM (Marine Distribution & Manufacturing). These companies represent the backbone of South Africa’s marine supply chain, providing everything from advanced stabilization systems to world-class navigation electronics.
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Seascape Marine Services: A founding sponsor and key supplier to the region’s renowned catamaran manufacturers, Seascape views the conference as a vital driver of progress. Director Jamie de Jong noted that the event “drives real progress” in shaping the future of African boating.
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Ullman Sails SA: CEO Michael Wittels emphasized that supporting the ABC is a testament to backing Africa as a “serious player” on the international stage.
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MDM (Raymarine Distributor): Highlighting the business value of the event, Managing Director Hylton Morris described the ABC as “the best B2B event in the southern hemisphere.”
Their renewed support comes at a critical time for South African boatbuilders, who are currently navigating complex global pressures, including international tariffs and stiff competition in European markets.
Elite Speakers Bridge the Gap to Global Markets
The ABC 2026 has significantly elevated its international standing by confirming two of the most influential figures in the superyacht world:
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Erwin Bamps, CEO of Gulf Craft: Bringing a Middle Eastern perspective, Bamps’ participation signals a strategic alignment between the Gulf region and Africa. As yacht owners seek new cruising destinations, Africa is positioning itself as a natural extension for Middle Eastern itineraries, supported by new marina infrastructure.
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Paris Baloumis, Director of Strategic Alliances at Oceanco: With its roots in South African craftsmanship, Oceanco has become a global leader in custom superyachts. Baloumis will share insights on how African heritage and innovation can scale to meet the highest levels of global excellence.
Building on the Momentum of 2025
The inaugural ABC in 2025 attracted over 200 delegates from 17 different countries, including every major South African boatbuilder. The 2026 edition aims to build on this foundation by acting as a catalyst for Africa’s Blue Economy.
By bringing together boatbuilders, suppliers, policymakers, and international investors, the conference provides a unified platform to address shared challenges and unlock new opportunities in marina development and marine manufacturing.
About the African Boating Conference
The African Boating Conference, to be held in Cape Town on 20-21 October 2026, brings together global industry leaders, investors, and regional stakeholders to explore opportunities in marina development and the broader blue economy across Africa.
As momentum continues to build, ABC is rapidly establishing itself as a must-attend event for those invested in the future of boating on the continent, creating a platform where meaningful connections are made, ideas are exchanged, and tangible opportunities are unlocked.
For those interested in participating or knowing more about the African Boating Conference, contact Maryanne Edwards at Maryanne@africanboatingconference.com
Visit the website https://www.africanboatingconference.com/
Strengthening the Sails: African Boating Conference 2026 Gains Momentum with Key Sponsors and Global Speakers
