Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, the local maritime industry is gearing up for round two. Organisers have officially confirmed that the second African Boating Conference (ABC) will take place in Cape Town from 20–21 October 2026.
The ABC has quickly established itself as the premier platform for the continent to discuss the boating industry on its own terms. As organiser Veda Pretorius notes, the inaugural event proved that Africa doesn’t just need a seat at the global table—it needs its own table.
One of the most anticipated highlights of this year’s gathering will be the findings from the African Superyacht Working Group, which is due to present a sector impact report. These findings will provide the data needed to further unlock sector opportunities, such as high-end refit and maintenance.
The ABC has become a platform for industry and government to meet face-to-face in the presence of global experts and commentators. Last year, Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, James Vos, didn’t mince words about the sector’s importance: “This is no small hobby – it’s real jobs, real trade, and strong exports.”
Meanwhile, uncertainty remains over the fate of the Cape Town Boat Show, which was cancelled last year despite hopes it would complement the ABC.