Boatbuilding a major economic contributor

South African boatbuilding on show this weekend

SOUTH AFRICA: The South African boatbuilding industry has recorded a remarkable 22.3% increase per annum over the past five years and contributed R4.9 billion to the country’s export figures in 2023.

With recreational boats making up 94% of this figure, boat shows like this weekend’s boatica provides an important showcase for local craftsmanship and innovation in marine technology.

The annual event continues to support the City of Cape Town as a global leader in marine manufacturing and leisure craft exports.

“The sector’s commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability continues to drive international demand for our vessels,” says Bruce Tedder, Chairman of the South African Boat Builders Export Council (SABBEX).

Employment in the boatbuilding sector is also on the rise, with 4,800 people directly employed within boatbuilding facilities. Including indirect jobs across the broader supply chain, the sector supports far more, contributing significantly to household incomes and local communities.

Organisations such as SABBEX and Blue Cape play a pivotal role in fostering innovation, boosting export capabilities, and establishing South Africa as a leader in maritime manufacturing. Blue Cape, with its focus on boatbuilding, superyachts, and ocean sports, ensures that Cape Town remains at the heart of the country's thriving blue economy.

In addition to boatbuilding, the broader blue economy, which includes ocean sports, adds approximately R2 billion to the economy annually. Ocean Sports alone employs around 3,000 people, bringing the total employment in the blue economy, including boatbuilding, to close on 8,000 people.

South Africa is the second-largest builder of leisure sailing catamarans in the world behind France and holds the title of the world’s leading manufacturer of large power catamarans. Cape Town is recognised as the largest catamaran manufacturing city globally, further cementing the city's position as a hub for high-quality marine craftsmanship.

The country is also frequently in the running for top industry accolades, with regular nominations and wins of international boat and catamaran awards.

“The City proudly supports this event which showcases the best in local marine manufacturing, most of whom are based right here in Cape Town. boatica is a highlight for the industry because it is a display of the breadth and variety of innovation, talent, and skill of our boat-builders. Our rich ocean economy is not just about leisure; it's about creating jobs and driving sustainable practices. By attending boatica, visitors will get an inside view of the opportunities that our marine sector offers,” said Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth for the City of Cape Town.