Facts and figures of Cape Town International Boat Show

The 18th annual Cape Town International Boat Show took place from 19-21 October at the V&A Waterfront. The 3-day event was organised for the first time by new owners, Messe Frankfurt South Africa and presented by Mercedes-Benz X-Class.

The 18th annual Boat Show was bigger than ever with over 100 exhibiting companies, an introduction of an all new luxury lifestyle sector The Avenue, interactive live demonstrations, on-water activities, from sailing competitions, to SUP racing, dragon boat racing and a host of other activities and a boasts over a visitor increase of 54%.

Thank you to all our sponsors and partners and especially to Mercedes-Benz as the presenting partner of this event.

We look forward to seeing you back at the V&A Waterfront from 18-20 October 2019.

DOWNLOAD 2018 POST SHOW REPORT

Exhibitor quotes

“On behalf of Maizey Plastics and Plexiglas we wish to thank you to your team for a wonderful show.”

Maizey Plastics

“Thank you for a very successful boat show! We made some very fruitful contacts and it looks like we already have a job for next year!”

Jofensham

“Thank you to TEAM BOAT SHOW 2018 for your sterling, well organized 2018 exhibition.”

Mega Marine

Interactive on water experiences

The 3-day Cape Town International Boat Show featured live on-water demonstrations from The Great Optimist Race with Greg Bertish, Royal Cape Yacht Club Youth Invitational, fly boarding, SUP races, canoe polo, motorised surf boards and a very energetic dragon boat race across the Marina.

SUP Racing

Stand-up paddle boarders got on their feet and use a paddle to propel themselves through the water.

View 2018 event gallery

CAPE 31 REGATTA

Celebrated the newly launched Cape 31 Summer Circuit with a race that saw a fleet of twelve depart from their moorings at the Boat Show on Saturday morning from the Marina to race in Table.

View 2018 event gallery

DRAGON BOAT RACING

Dragon Boat Racing an ancient Chinese cultural tradition saw three teams of 20 paddlers at the Cape Town International Boat Show battle it out in an adrenaline pumping and hearts race.

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THE GREAT OPTIMIST RACE

The Great Optimist Race aimed at raising funds for sick and needy children across the Western Cape set off on a tricky three-lap course through the V & A Waterfront in front of thousands of spectators. Competitors ranged from celebrities to captains of industry, and medical survivors, all of whom raced for glory in little optimist boats. It was shark attack survivor, amputee and adaptive surfing champion, Caleb Swanepoel who took the glory.

View 2018 event gallery

DOWNLOAD 2018 POST SHOW REPORT