Boatica Cape Town is on at the V&A Waterfront from 25-27 October. Check out the schedule for what’s on and see South Africa’s leading marine manufacturers and exhibitors showcase their talent, plus sign up for some fun experiences.
Valued city support
Boatica Cape Town, along with South Africa’s boatbuilding industry, offers a compelling and positive story amid today’s economic landscape. Supported by SABBEX and BlueCape, the industry demonstrates resilience and significant contributions to the national economy, generating an impressive R3.2 billion annually and supporting around 6,000 jobs. With nearly 300 vessels exported each year, the sector is committed to skills development, community engagement, and strategic international collaborations, reinforcing South Africa’s leadership in the global maritime arena.
In line with the Blue Economy’s principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship boatica 2024 will drive economic growth through their partnership with the City of Cape Town.
boatica is dedicated to showcasing multiple aspects of Cape Town’s maritime and blue economy.
The benefit of the blue economy
This sector has seen an increase of 17% per annum since COVID-19. A multitude of sectors from boat building to fisheries, tourism, renewable energy, marine conservation and aquaculture make-up this lifeline for Cape Town’s economy.
Research by the City’s industry partner, BlueCape, found that the Ocean Sports economy sector is now estimated to be valued at around +R2-billion per year.
Further research commissioned by BlueCape indicates that South Africa’s boatbuilding industry is valued at +R3.2 billion per year!
A race for charity
The ever-popular Great Optimist Race, in collaboration with the Little Optimist Trust, will be a major highlight at boatica again this year
20 little Optimist sailing boats will be captained by celebs, sports stars, survivors and captains of industry racing around the marina for charity.
The Great Optimist Race will take place on 27 Oct at noon at the V&A Waterfront.
“We challenge you to enter and take this fine little boat into the greatest sailing race known to man. It’s a race for glory, a race for charity and a race for fun! Brand a boat and race to raise funds and awareness for a charity of your choice – and ours”, says founder of the Little Optimist Trust, Greg Bertish.
For more information on how to get involved contact the Trust.
Whats in store at boatica 2024?
New exhibitors – the Southern Wind Shipyard, one of South Africa’s premier boatbuilders debuts this year
Well-known favourites like Boating World and the Ocean Princess will be on display, along with smaller powerboats from brands such as Yamaha, Rutherford Marine/Mercury and UX Marine.
This year’s exciting exhibitors include: Airwave Engineering, Aquadex Africa (Pty) Ltd, Astra Industrial Innovations and Amdoor, Atomic, Boating World, Esthec / Cloudwize / Evadex, International Marine Certification Institute, Inteto Connect, Jo Fensham Yacht Upholstery, Maykamark, McCarthy’s Auto Trimmers, MDM, Motor & Sail Investment Yachts (Pty) Ltd, National Energy Solutions, Permadeck, Plett Yamaha, Project Maritime Training & Survival Offshore Training Pty LTD, Rutherford Marine (Mercury), SAMSA, SeaScape Marine, Southern Wind, Stingblade, Teng Tools ZA, Ullman Sails Cape Town, UX Marine, Vetus Maxwell South Africa (Pty) Ltd – via TMN Events, Viking Life-Saving Equipment, Waterfront Charters, Yamaha, and Yamaha AMP.
Dragon boat racing: dragon boat racing is an energetic, colourful, and exciting team sport with ancient Chinese cultural traditions. This year boatica visitors will get a chance to be part of a crew.
Catamaran cruises: Waterfront Charters’ luxury catamaran Enigma offers a family-friendly adventure with perfect views of Cape Town from Table Bay.
E-Foiling: e-Foiling instruction is available to visitors in the marina during the event. Did you know that E-foils can reach a speed of 55kmph!
Book a breathtaking sunset cruise: enjoy a unique view of the Cape Town coastline while admiring the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
Book an adventure boat cruise: Waterfront Charters offers eco-adventures aboard RIBs (Rigid-Inflatable Boats) – get up close and personal to the wildlife of the Atlantic.
Don’t miss out –buy your boatica tickets here
Event Schedule