Boatica Cape Town 2023: Africa’s Biggest Boat Show is Coming to V&A Waterfront Next Weekend

Regarded as Africa’s leading boat show, Boatica is back at V&A Waterfront from 27 to 29 October 2023. The multi-day event in Cape Town combines an on-water expo of the best in South African boat, yacht and catamaran manufacturing, with the extension of an on-land display of all boating. Learn about the newest features of various watercraft, and hear about the regulations and safeguards in place to protect our waterways.

What is Boatica?

Boatica features the best in South African boat, yacht, and catamaran manufacturing, accessories and marine equipment. There is also a special focus on once-in-a-lifetime Ultimate Yacht Experiences and other new experiential cruises in Cape Town on offer.

This boating marketplace provides a platform for businesses and visitors to make valuable connections while producers of boats, yachts, catamarans, maritime equipment, water sports and boating leisure offerings share their latest offerings.

The event is high on the list for water sports enthusiasts with interactive on-water product displays and demonstrations – including a sailing clinic where aspiring sailors can learn to sail.

A boost for Cape Town

South Africa is increasingly recognised as a global leader in the boat-building industry, and Boatica offers a unique platform for the public to view internationally acclaimed boats built by local manufacturers.

Cape Town is reaping positive rewards of its burgeoning blue economy, a sector that injects billions of rands per annum into the city’s GDP. The annual boat show has evolved into a pivotal contributor to boosting the Mother City’s impressive profile in this sector.

Since its inception, Boatica has been dedicated to showcasing multiple aspects of Cape Town’s maritime and blue economy that encompasses a multitude of sectors, ranging from fisheries, tourism, renewable energy, and marine conservation, to aquaculture. Cape Town’s strategic location along the Atlantic Ocean, coupled with its commitment to sustainable practices, positions it as a global leader in this critical arena.

‘Ocean sports, for example, was a R1.38-billion per annum contributor to the Cape’s economy in 2018-2019. Research by the City’s industry partner, BlueCape, found that this sector is growing at rates of 20% and is now estimated to be valued at around +R2-billion,’ says Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, Alderman James Vos.

‘We are very proud to have the support of the City in once again bringing this event to Cape Town,’ says Michael Dehn, Managing Director of boatica organiser Messe Frankfurt SA. ‘Not only will there be some incredible boats on display, there will also be an extensive range of exhibitors, as well as exciting on-water activities to enjoy.’

What’s on at boatica 2023?

This year, the whole family can enjoy a series of stunning things to do at the sea for everything needed for a great day out on the water either by sail or by yourself. On the cards are expert advice and insights from some of the city’s foremost sailing and paddling operators such as SUP paddling, kayaking, E-Foiling experiences, and limited test sailing sessions.

The weekend kicks off with a comprehensive and diverse lineup of things to do at V&A Waterfront including a range of cruises throughout the day, a sailing workshop for kids, and VIP boat boarding.

Don’t miss The Great Optimist Race headline event on Sunday, 29 October where you can watch an exciting boat race in action. Live music will set the mood for the event.

Cost: From 150pp for adults, and R50pp for kids. Book via Howler