Boatbuilders prepare to interrogate market realities

South Africa's leading boatbuilders unite for a rare industry conversation

SOUTH AFRICA: Four of South Africa’s prominent boatbuilders are due to share the stage later this year to discuss the realities of manufacturing world-class vessels, competing in global markets and shaping the future of boatbuilding in the country.

The conversation will take centre stage at the African Boating Conference (ABC) 2026 in October, and provides the opportunity for a candid, unscripted discussion that explores how the sector is adapting to international market changes and challenges.

Despite a global reputation, South Africa’s boatbuilding leaders have rarely shared a public platform to interrogate what has influenced the rise of a world-class boatbuilding sector at the tip of Africa.  

Today, the industry is recognised as one of South Africa's manufacturing success stories. Boat exports reached approximately R4.9 billion in 2024; the sector supports around 4,800 direct jobs, and an estimated 94 per cent of recreational boats built locally are exported.  

The panel will feature:

◼︎ Gerhard Neethling, Chief Executive Officer, Owner Gemini Marine
◼︎ James Turner, Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Vision Yachts
◼︎ Mark Delany, Managing Director, Two Oceans Marine Manufacturing
◼︎ Christian Möller, Chief Operating Officer, Southern Wind Shipyard

Collectively, these companies represent the breadth and diversity of South African boatbuilding, producing everything from commercial and rescue vessels to internationally acclaimed sailing yachts, luxury catamarans and custom motor yachts for the global market.

While their businesses serve different markets, they share many of the same realities. The discussion will examine how manufacturers have adapted in the years since the COVID-19 pandemic as well as how they have responded to changing global demand, supply chain disruption, workforce development, technological innovation and the ongoing challenge of remaining internationally competitive.

Conference organiser Veda Pretorius said the session reflects the growing importance of marine manufacturing to South Africa's economy and Africa's expanding blue economy.

“South Africa has built an enviable international reputation for producing exceptional boats and yachts, but the people behind that success rarely have the opportunity to come together and openly discuss the industry's future,” said Pretorius.

Designed as an interactive discussion rather than a series of presentations, the session will provide delegates with valuable insight into the strategic decisions shaping South Africa's boatbuilding sector and the opportunities that lie ahead.

The African Boating Conference 2026, taking place on 20–21 October at the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town will once again bring together industry leaders, marina developers, investors, government representatives and marine professionals from across Africa and beyond. The conference explores the opportunities driving the continent's growing recreational boating and blue economy sectors.

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