The Australian marine industry is no stranger to impactful industry events — just look at the continued success of ASMEX and the Marinas conference.
Most recently, I have seen an increasing interest locally for a new international event: the inaugural African Boating Conference, set to take place on the 21st and 22nd of October 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa.
Organisers say that “what sets this conference apart is its bold ambition: to unlock the vast, untapped potential of the recreational boating industry across Africa and the Indian Ocean islands.”
With a fast-growing lineup of global speakers and supporters, the event has already caught the eye of several high-profile Australians — who are planning to attend.
Maryanne Edwards & Veda Pretorius
At the helm of this initiative are two familiar and highly respected figures in the marine world: South Africa’s Veda Pretorius, Executive GM of IFBSO and global marine consultant, and Australia’s own Maryanne Edwards, known for her longstanding contributions to the Australian marine export sector and her work through GMBA. Together, they are championing a conference designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and real commercial outcomes in an underserved but opportunity-rich region.
What do we know:
Event: African Boating Conference
Dates: 21 & 22 October, 2025
Included: 2 Days of events, 10 sessions, keynote speakers, panel discussions, networking opportunities and industry visits.
Location: The Avenue, 40 Dock Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa.
Website: https://www.africanboatingconference.com/
So what does this mean for Australian marine businesses?
Marine Business News sat down with Maryanne Edwards to find out more.
What was the original vision behind the African Boating Conference, and why did you feel now was the right time to launch it?
The African Boating Conference was born out of a need to connect and elevate Africa’s emerging recreational and superyacht sectors. With growing interest in Africa as the next frontier for marine development, now is the time to spotlight opportunities, foster partnerships, and shape a sustainable future for the region.
How did your partnership with Veda Pretorius come about, and what strengths do each of you bring to this event?
Veda and I met through GMBA and quickly discovered a shared vision. I bring global event experience and strategic foresight; Veda contributes exceptional organisational skill and deep insight into Africa’s marine landscape. Together, we offer a powerful blend of vision, execution, and regional expertise.
What makes this conference truly unique compared to other international marine events?
This is the first event of its kind focused solely on Africa. It brings together stakeholders from across the continent and the globe, highlighting Africa’s rising role in the global marine economy and setting the stage for innovation and investment.
Can you tell us more about the kinds of businesses and speakers that will be participating — and why they were selected?
We’ve curated a world-class lineup of speakers who bring critical insight across investment, infrastructure, innovation, and sustainability.
- Paul Darrouzet will explore luxury marina development and economic impact.
- Martin Baum addresses global insurance trends amid geopolitical shifts.
- Anders Kurten speaks to leading the yachting industry toward sustainability.
- Kevin Williams and Arturo Gutierrez offer expertise on market expansion, shared-economy models, and youth engagement.
- Theo Loock provides deep insight into marine manufacturing growth in Africa.
We’re also featuring African government officials, local manufacturers, and training experts to ensure the conversation is grounded in practical outcomes.
Plus we have a number of key African stakeholders who will be sharing their knowledge and experiences in the market from marina owners, manufacturers, supply chain players and superyacht sector players. We also have a number of key government agencies participating to understand the needs of the marine sector but also to be there to listen to the barriers businesses are facing.
What specific opportunities exist in Africa and the Indian Ocean region for Australian marine businesses?
Australia’s expertise in infrastructure, training, refit operations and the superyacht industry is highly relevant. As Africa invests in marinas, logistics, and marine services, opportunities emerge in supply chain solutions, vessel lifecycle support, and sustainable partnerships. For superyacht stakeholders, influencing cruising routes and ground-level development could offer first-mover advantage.
How will the conference format — with its mix of keynotes, panels, networking, and industry visits — support genuine business development?
We’ve designed a dynamic format to promote both insight and action. Delegates will engage in high-level discussions, targeted networking, and on-the-ground visits to local marine businesses—ensuring real connections and tangible opportunities.
What are some of the logistical considerations for Australians interested in attending — is this a manageable and worthwhile investment?
Travel is straightforward with Qantas flights via Johannesburg. No visa is required for Australians, and Cape Town is widely regarded as a safe, welcoming city. We’ve partnered with a travel agent to offer tailored packages, including accommodations, local transport, and optional post-conference experiences that can meet all budgets. For the potential ROI, it’s a small and strategic investment.
How do you envision this event evolving in future years — is the goal to make it a regular fixture on the global marine calendar?
Absolutely. Our vision is for this to become a flagship event, showcasing Africa’s marine industry on the global stage and creating a long-term platform for collaboration and innovation.
From your perspective, why should Australian companies with export potential consider Africa as their next market?
Africa presents untapped potential across manufacturing, services, and tourism. With a young population, increasing infrastructure investment, and strategic coastline development, it’s a natural next step for companies looking to expand smartly and sustainably.
What would you say to a business on the fence about attending — what would they gain from the experience?
Beyond the professional value, attending is a rare opportunity to be part of something pioneering. Whether you’re exploring new markets, seeking partnerships, or simply curious, this conference offers insight, inspiration, and access to one of the world’s most exciting emerging marine regions.
Those wishing to contact GMBA in Australia can do so through MaryAnne Edwards or call +61 412 916 036
Global Marine Business Advisors website www.gmba.blue
Global Marine Business Advisors is a registered legal entity and is a network of independent marine industry consultants.
