Cape Town has earned the prestigious title of the number one city in the world for the production of luxury offshore catamarans, according to data from BlueCape, the City’s Special Purpose Vehicle in the marine manufacturing industry. Click here for the video. Â
‘In the past year, local boat builders have produced around 330 catamarans, the majority of which are exported. This is more than any other city in the world. On my many site visits to boatyards across the metro, I’ve been inspired by the incredible craftsmanship. This demand for Capetonian marine products is largely thanks to the promotion of the local industry and support of skills development through the City’s funding of BlueCape.
‘To further enhance our city’s leading position, I have prioritised funding in the upcoming budget to ensure the continued partnership with BlueCape. This investment underscores our commitment to sustaining and expanding our thriving marine manufacturing industry,’ said Alderman James Vos, the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth.
In addition to the catamarans, BlueCape reports that South Africa is also highly regarded for producing semi-rigid boats and rescue craft, with several manufacturers operating in this sub-sector. The demand for these diverse boat types has also led to a rise in the number of component and equipment manufacturers producing items such as sails, masts, rigging components, marine-grade rope, aluminium doors, upholstery, carbon fibre hatches, engine components, and stainless steel accessories.
Alderman Vos has convened round table discussions with boat builders to explore additional measures to support and expand this vital industry. These conversations have been invaluable in identifying new opportunities and reinforcing the City’s commitment to the sector’s growth.
‘Our marine manufacturing industry, valued at over R3 billion per annum and growing at an impressive rate of over 17% annually, is soaring. As demand grows, so too does the need for an ever-expanding skilled workforce. This is why the City proudly supports BlueCape to drive work-readiness initiatives while promoting Cape Town’s boat-building industry to investors. Marine manufacturing is one of the industries in which there are oceans of opportunity,’ said Alderman Vos.
Cape Town’s position as the world leader in luxury offshore catamaran production is not just a point of pride, but a beacon of our city’s innovation, skill, and potential for future growth. ‘Together, with the continued support of BlueCape and the collective efforts of our talented boat builders, we are charting a course for sustained economic prosperity,’ said Alderman Vos.
